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Philippians

Laugh Again: Experience Outrageous Joy

When was the last time you had a good belly-shaking laugh? That long? Okay, when was the last time you chuckled? Giggled? Smiled?

In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he declares that Jesus Christ came to fill our lives with joy. And this authentic, abiding joy—genuine laughter deep within the soul—is available to all, regardless of life’s ups and downs. Would you like to experience outrageous joy—the kind that tingles the soul? Then it’s time to Laugh Again.


In a world surrounded by heartache and sorrow, authentic joy can often feel out of reach. In this 14-part study of Philippians, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores how the Apostle Paul found “outrageous joy” even while imprisoned. This series is a refreshing call to reclaim the laughter and smiles that increase our “face value” and serve as good medicine for the soul. Regardless of life’s ups and downs, this abiding joy is available to every believer who anchors their happiness in the person of Jesus Christ.

Message 1. Your Smile Increases Your Face Value (A Survey of Philippians)

  • Overview: Provides an bird’s-eye view of the entire letter. Chuck introduces the theme that joy is a choice and a byproduct of a mind stayed on Christ, quoting Proverbs: “A joyful heart is good medicine.”
  • Key Fact: Joy is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God in the midst of it.
  • Scripture: Proverbs 17:22 – “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.”

Message 2. Set Your Sails for Joy (Philippians 1:1–11)

  • Overview: Explores the “joy of fellowship.” Paul’s deep affection for the Philippian believers shows that our relationships with other Christians are a primary source of spiritual happiness.
  • Key Fact: Gratitude is the “wind” that sets our sails toward a joyful life.
  • Scripture: Philippians 1:3 – “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.”

Message 3. What a Way to Live! (Philippians 1:12–20)

  • Overview: Addresses the “joy of perspective.” Paul reveals how his imprisonment actually served to advance the Gospel, teaching us to find God’s purposes in our own constraints.
  • Key Fact: When our primary goal is the glory of Christ, even our setbacks become opportunities for joy.
  • Scripture: Philippians 1:18 – “What then? Only that in every way… Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.”

Message 4. Laughing through Life’s Dilemmas (Philippians 1:21–30)

  • Overview: Tackles the ultimate dilemma: life or death. Paul’s “win-win” attitude—“to live is Christ and to die is gain”—removes the fear that typically kills our joy.
  • Key Fact: You can only truly laugh at life’s dilemmas when you have settled the issue of your eternal destiny.
  • Scripture: Philippians 1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Message 5. The Hidden Secret of a Happy Life (Philippians 2:1–11)

  • Overview: The secret is Humility. Chuck explores the “Mind of Christ”—His voluntary downward mobility for our sake—as the blueprint for a life free from the joy-killing traps of pride and rivalry.
  • Key Fact: True happiness is found in serving others rather than demanding our own way.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:5 – “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.”

Message 6. While Laughing, Keep Your Balance! (Philippians 2:12–18)

  • Overview: Discusses the balance between God’s work in us and our responsibility to “work out” our salvation. Joy is maintained by a spirit that refuses to grumble or dispute.
  • Key Fact: Grumbling is a “joy-leak”; a balanced life is one that shines as a light in a dark and crooked generation.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:14 – “Do all things without grumbling or disputing.”

Message 7. Friends Make Life More Fun (Philippians 2:19–30)

  • Overview: Focuses on Timothy and Epaphroditus. Chuck highlights the “joy of partnership,” showing that reliable, kindred-spirit friends are God’s gifts to keep us refreshed.
  • Key Fact: You weren’t meant to carry the load alone; sharing the journey with “kindred spirits” doubles the joy and halves the burden.

Message 8. Happy Hopes for High Achievers (Philippians 3:1–11)

  • Overview: A warning against “confidence in the flesh.” Paul lists his impressive religious pedigree and then declares it all “rubbish” compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ.
  • Key Fact: Real joy is found in knowing Christ, not in our own religious or professional achievements.
  • Scripture: Philippians 3:8 – “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

Message 9. Hanging Tough Together . . . and Loving It (Philippians 3:12–16)

  • Overview: Addresses the “joy of progress.” Paul models a life of “forgetting what lies behind” and “pressing on” toward the goal of maturity.
  • Key Fact: Happiness comes from the pursuit of Christlikeness, even when we haven’t yet reached perfection.
  • Scripture: Philippians 3:13 – “Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.”

Message 10. It’s a Mad, Bad, Sad World, But . . . (Philippians 3:17–21)

  • Overview: Reminds us that our citizenship is in heaven. Chuck encourages believers to live with an “upward” focus while navigating a world that is often hostile to the cross.
  • Key Fact: Our joy is secure because our future is certain; we are citizens of a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.
  • Scripture: Philippians 3:20 – “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior.”

Message 11. Defusing Disharmony (Philippians 4:1–3)

  • Overview: Practical advice for resolving conflict. Chuck looks at the disagreement between Euodia and Syntyche, showing that unresolved friction in the body of Christ is a major joy-thief.
  • Key Fact: Maintaining a “common mind” in the Lord is essential for a joyful church community.

Message 12. Freeing Yourself Up to Laugh Again (Philippians 4:4–9)

  • Overview: The “how-to” of mental health. Chuck details the path to peace: rejoicing always, praying about everything, and thinking on whatever is true, honorable, and right.
  • Key Fact: You cannot be filled with anxiety and joy at the same time; prayer is the “exchange” that allows joy to return.
  • Scripture: Philippians 4:4 – “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!”

Message 13. Don’t Forget to Have Fun as You Grow Up (Philippians 4:10–19)

  • Overview: Focuses on the “secret of contentment.” Whether Paul had much or little, he found satisfaction in Christ’s strength, which allowed him to maintain his sense of humor and peace.
  • Key Fact: Contentment is a learned discipline that frees us from the “greed” that kills joy.
  • Scripture: Philippians 4:11 – “For I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.”

Message 14. A Joyful, Grace-Filled Good-Bye (Philippians 4:20–23)

  • Overview: The series concludes with Paul’s final greetings. Chuck summarizes the themes of grace and joy, encouraging us to live as people whose lives are marked by the “smile” of God’s favor.
  • Key Fact: Grace is the root; Joy is the fruit. When you understand the depth of God’s grace, you can’t help but laugh again.

Common Questions: Laugh Again

1. Is “joy” different from “happiness”? Yes. As Pastor Chuck explains throughout the series, happiness is often tied to “happenings”—the external circumstances of life. Joy is an internal quality of the soul that persists even when circumstances are painful, because it is anchored in the “unchanging” person of Christ.

2. How can I “rejoice” when I’m going through a tragedy? Message 12, “Freeing Yourself Up to Laugh Again,” provides the answer. It’s not about ignoring the tragedy, but about “handing it over” in prayer. When you exchange your “anxiety” for God’s “peace,” you create the internal space for joy to return, even if the tragedy hasn’t yet been resolved.

3. Why is “Grumbling” considered such a big deal in the series? Chuck calls grumbling a “joy-leak.” In “While Laughing, Keep Your Balance!”, he explains that a critical, complaining spirit acts as a dark cloud that obscures the light of Christ. You cannot be a “complainer” and a “joy-bringer” at the same time.

4. What is the “Secret of Contentment”? According to Philippians 4:11–13, contentment is learned. It comes from the conviction that Christ is sufficient for any situation. When you believe that you can “do all things through Him who strengthens you,” you are no longer a slave to your bank account, your health, or your status.

5. Why did Chuck name the series “Laugh Again”? The title reflects the practical result of a life in Christ. When we realize that our past is forgiven, our future is secure, and our present is under God’s sovereign care, the natural response is a sense of relief and delight that often expresses itself in genuine laughter.

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Things That Enhance Your Years at Seminary

In this two-message series, Chuck Swindoll imparts to seminary students key lessons he’s learned and biblical principles he’s followed in his more than 50 years of work in the ministry.

Those engaged in any form of Christian service—as a pastor, small group leader, or ministry student—need to understand that often the most powerful lessons are learned during times of misfortune and failure. Also learn to appreciate the value of certain selfless yet gifted people who serve Christ willingly and quietly behind the scenes.

Glean from Chuck Swindoll both the wisdom gained in learning from your mistakes as well as the joy of serving with others.


In the two-part series “Things That Enhance Your Years at Seminary,” Pastor Chuck Swindoll draws from over 50 years of ministry experience to provide a foundational blueprint for longevity and effectiveness in Christian service. Originally delivered to students at Dallas Theological Seminary, these messages explore two critical “enhancers”: the lessons learned in the crucible of misfortune and the mental discipline required to maintain spiritual focus. Swindoll moves beyond academic theory to address the heart and mind of the leader, emphasizing that true spiritual impact is forged in times of failure and sustained through a commitment to godly thinking.

Message 1: Meaningful Messages in Misfortune

Scripture: Job 1–2; 42

Key Points:

  • The Reality of the Storm: Swindoll introduces Job as an “upright” man whose life was suddenly interrupted by tragedy. This establishes the fact that misfortune is not always a sign of divine displeasure but can be a sovereign tool for growth.
  • The Sovereign Restraint: A look at the “heavenly boardroom” where God sets the limits for Satan’s influence. Key Fact: Satan is a “chained dog” who can only go as far as God allows for His ultimate purposes.
  • The Anatomy of Worship in Pain: Analysis of Job 1:20–22. Job chooses to bless the Lord in the midst of the ashes. This demonstrates that worship is a volitional response to God’s character, not a reaction to our circumstances.
  • The Final Word of Restoration: Exploration of Job 42. After the silence of God and the faulty advice of friends, Job encounters the Almighty. The lesson: God’s final word in our misfortune is one of humility, vindication, and restoration.

Message 2: Focus on These Things

Scripture: Philippians 4:8–9

Key Points:

  • The Battlefield of the Mind: Swindoll addresses the “mental pollution” that ministry leaders face. He argues that our thoughts are the primary indicators of our spiritual maturity and future character.
  • The Six Biblical Filters: A detailed study of Philippians 4:8.
    • Truth & Honor: Focusing on what is factual and dignified.
    • Rightness & Purity: Aligning thoughts with God’s moral standard.
    • Loveliness & Good Repute: Choosing to dwell on what is gracious and commendable.
  • The Discipline of Dwell Time: Focusing on the Greek word logizomai (to calculate/inventory). Key Fact: Godly thinking is not accidental; it is a disciplined choice to stop the “random drift” of the mind and take every thought captive.
  • From Thinking to Practicing: Analysis of Philippians 4:9. Swindoll emphasizes the shift from theory to habit. The result of godly thinking and active “practice” is the tangible presence of the “God of peace.”

Key Series Facts

  • The School of Suffering: Ministry effectiveness is often more about what God does to us in failure than what He does through us in success.
  • The Sovereignty of God: Both messages emphasize that God is in total control—whether of the storms that hit our lives or the peace that guards our minds.
  • Character over Credentials: While seminary provides tools, these messages argue that character (honed in trial) and mental discipline are the true “enhancers” of a long-term ministry.
  • The Presence of Peace: Spiritual stability is found in the intersection of biblical meditation and consistent obedience.

Primary Scripture References

  • Job 1:21: “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”
  • Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatever is true… dwell on these things.”
  • Philippians 4:9: “The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with us.”
  • Proverbs 4:23: “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

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Transformed by Grace

When life falls apart, how do you pick up the pieces and move forward? The answer is REFRAME.  To reframe is to see your losses, struggles, and burdens through God’s lens of grace and to let Him reshape your pain into new purpose. Paul describes this process: “Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think” (Romans 12:2).

With God’s power, you can become a new person as God guides your thoughts, heals your heart, and energizes new habits. Reframing is not easy; it is an ongoing process of growth as God transforms you by His grace. Join Chuck Swindoll and his daughter Colleen Swindoll Thompson as they transparently share their reframing journeys.


When life falls apart due to prolonged seasons of calamity or heartache, how do you pick up the pieces? In this transparent series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll and his daughter, Colleen Swindoll Thompson, explore the concept of Reframing. Reframing is the spiritual discipline of seeing your losses and burdens through God’s lens of grace rather than your own pain. By allowing God to change the way you think, you can emerge from the “crucible of His will” with a new personhood and a reshaped purpose.

Message 1. Transformed by Grace (Message & Interview)

  • Overview: Introduces the process of “reframing” life’s struggles. Through a combination of teaching and personal testimony, Chuck and Colleen discuss what it means to be a “new person” as God heals the heart and energizes new habits.
  • Key Fact: Transformation is an ongoing process of growth, not a one-time event, requiring us to continually surrender our thoughts to God’s perspective.
  • Scripture: Romans 12:2 – “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Common Questions: Transformed by Grace

1. What does it mean to “reframe” my pain? In this series, “reframing” is defined as looking at your circumstances through a different “lens”—God’s lens. Instead of seeing a loss as purely a disaster, reframing allows you to see how God might be using that very struggle to reshape your character and reveal a new purpose for your life.

2. Is this series just for people going through major tragedies? While it addresses “prolonged seasons of calamity,” the principles of reframing apply to anyone carrying burdens or feeling “stuck” in a negative mindset. It is for anyone who needs to “renew their mind” to experience the freedom and healing found in God’s grace.

3. How does God “energize new habits” in my life? The series suggests that as our thinking changes (the reframe), our actions naturally follow. When we stop viewing ourselves as “victims of circumstance” and start seeing ourselves as “recipients of grace,” God provides the spiritual energy to replace old, destructive patterns with new, healthy ones.

4. Why is transparency emphasized in this series? Pastor Chuck and Colleen share their own “reframing journeys” to show that even those in ministry face seasons where life falls apart. Their transparency serves as a powerful confirmation that God’s grace is sufficient for everyone, regardless of their position or the depth of their heartache.

5. How long does the “reframing” process take? The series emphasizes that this is an ongoing process. It is a daily, sometimes moment-by-moment, commitment to let God transform you. There is no “quick fix,” but there is the constant, sustaining presence of God’s power as He guides your thoughts and heals your heart over time.

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Things to Stop and Start

Many of us spend our days saying, “I don’t have enough time!” Meanwhile, our cluttered closet stays cluttered, the thought of our estranged family member still stirs up resentment in our heart, and our time with God remains on the back burner.

Is it really true that we don’t have enough time? Or do we just need help prioritizing what truly matters?

Join Chuck Swindoll for this vital message series and learn:

  • Why to say no to procrastination, blaming, drifting, and other negative traits
  • How to say yes to following through, forgiving, digging into our faith, and more

Let’s start making the most of the time God has given us.


We often complain about not having enough time, yet we allow our lives to be cluttered with habits and attitudes that drain our spiritual energy. In this series, Chuck Swindoll challenges us to take an honest inventory of our lives. Following the biblical principle of “putting off” the old and “putting on” the new, we examine the practical shifts necessary for spiritual maturity. From stopping the blame game to starting a life of vulnerability, these messages offer a roadmap for making the most of the time God has given us.

Message 1: Stop Drifting Along and Start Digging In

Sermon Summary Getting older happens automatically, but growing up spiritually requires intentionality. Too many believers find themselves years into their faith but still shallow in their understanding of God’s Word. This message explores how to stop the passive drift of “easy” Christianity and start the disciplined work of digging deep into the scriptures.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Intentional Growth: Why spiritual maturity is never accidental.
  • The Danger of Shallow Faith: Moving beyond basic knowledge to a life-changing understanding of God.

Primary Scripture References

  • Hebrews 5:11–6:1: The call to move past the elementary teachings and go on to maturity.
  • 2 Peter 3:18: The command to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.

Message 2: Stop Procrastinating and Start Following Through

Sermon Summary Procrastination is often a mask for fear or a lack of discipline. It leaves us with a life full of “half-finished” projects and unkept promises to God. Chuck provides biblical motivation for honoring our commitments and the spiritual benefits of consistent follow-through.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Cost of Delay: How putting things off hinders our witness and spiritual effectiveness.
  • Faithful Stewardship: Treating our time and tasks as a sacred trust from God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Ecclesiastes 5:4–5: The importance of fulfilling the vows we make to God.

Message 3: Stop Shaming and Start Honoring

Sermon Summary Shame is a destructive tool that isolates and devalues people. In contrast, the biblical call is to honor one another. This message looks at how we can stop using shame as a weapon—whether against ourselves or others—and start reflecting the dignity that God places on every human being.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Grace Alternative: Moving from a culture of condemnation to one of restoration.
  • Building Up vs. Tearing Down: The power of our words to reflect God’s heart.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Romans 12:10: The command to “outdo one another in showing honor.”

Message 4: Stop Blaming and Start Forgiving

Sermon Summary Blame is the enemy of growth because it refuses to take responsibility. By shifting the focus to others’ faults, we remain stuck in bitterness. Chuck explores how to break the cycle of blame by embracing the radical, freeing power of forgiveness—both for ourselves and those who have wronged us.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Ownership: The necessity of taking responsibility for our own reactions and choices.
  • The Freedom of Forgiveness: Why letting go of the “debt” is the only path to healing.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Colossians 3:13: Bearing with one another and forgiving as the Lord forgave us.

Message 5: Stop Worrying and Start Trusting

Sermon Summary Worry is a heavy burden that God never intended us to carry. It assumes that God is not in control or not concerned. This message contrasts the paralysis of anxiety with the peace that comes from actively trusting in the character and promises of our Heavenly Father.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Anxiety vs. Assurance: Shifting focus from our problems to God’s power.
  • Daily Dependence: The practice of “casting cares” on the One who cares for us.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • 1 Peter 5:7: Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.

Message 6: Stop Resisting and Start Submitting

Sermon Summary Our natural inclination is to fight for our own way, often resisting God’s leading and authority. Chuck examines the beauty and strength found in submission—recognizing that when we stop resisting God’s plan, we find the very protection and guidance we’ve been seeking.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Strength of Surrender: Why submission is a sign of spiritual power, not weakness.
  • Trusting Authority: Finding peace in God’s sovereign direction for our lives.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Message 7: Stop Acting Perfect and Start Being Vulnerable

Sermon Summary Many Christians feel the pressure to “have it all together,” which leads to hypocrisy and isolation. This message encourages us to drop the mask of perfection. When we are honest about our struggles and weaknesses, we create space for God’s power to work and for genuine community to flourish.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Authenticity: The spiritual relief of being real about our needs.
  • Grace in Weakness: How vulnerability invites God’s strength into our lives.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9: God’s power is made perfect in our weakness.

Message 8: Stop Lying and Start Acknowledging

Sermon Summary Deception, even in “small” ways, erodes character and destroys trust. Chuck addresses the importance of total honesty, starting with acknowledging the truth about our own hearts before God. This message is a call to live a life of integrity where our outside matches our inside.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Integrity: The foundational role of truth in the life of a believer.
  • The Power of Confession: The healing that comes from bringing truth into the light.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Proverbs 28:13: “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”

Message 9: Stop Criticizing Earth and Start Contemplating Heaven

Sermon Summary It is easy to become cynical and hyper-critical of the world around us. In this series finale, Chuck encourages us to lift our gaze. By focusing on the reality and beauty of our eternal home, we find the perspective and hope needed to live faithfully and joyfully in the present.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Eternal Perspective: How the hope of Heaven changes our priorities on Earth.
  • Joyful Endurance: Moving from a critical spirit to a heart filled with anticipation.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Colossians 3:1–2: Setting our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

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Growing Up in God’s Family

God’s Word describes the body of believers as “brothers and sisters” and “co-heirs” with Jesus, and when Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He began by saying, “Our Father.” Why?

We’re a family in Christ. And like any family, God’s family is filled with people in all stages of spiritual development: newborn believers, those still adolescent in their walk, and the spiritually mature.

Join Chuck Swindoll as he takes an in-depth look at the stages of growth that characterize the Christian walk.

Spiritual maturity is not an automatic result of time; it is a process of intentional growth. In this series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the “ages and stages” of the Christian life. By comparing spiritual development to human physical growth—from infancy to adulthood—Chuck provides a roadmap for identifying immaturity and pursuing the “solid food” of a deep, seasoned relationship with Christ.

Message 1: Analysis of a Crop Failure

  • Overview: Why do some Christians stop growing? Using the Parable of the Soils, Chuck analyzes the internal and external “choke points” that prevent the Word of God from producing a harvest in a believer’s life.
  • Key Fact: Spiritual “crop failure” is rarely a seed problem; it is almost always a soil problem involving the distractions of the world or a lack of depth in the heart.
  • Scripture Reference: Matthew 13:1–23

Message 2: Growing Up in God’s Family

  • Overview: An introduction to the family dynamics of the Kingdom. Chuck establishes that every believer enters God’s family as a “newborn” and outlines the biblical expectation for consistent maturation.
  • Key Fact: Just as physical growth is the natural result of health, spiritual growth is the natural result of a healthy connection to the Head of the Church, Jesus Christ.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 John 2:12–14

Message 3: Ages and Stages of Growing Up

  • Overview: Chuck explores the distinct phases of spiritual life mentioned by the Apostle John: little children, young men, and fathers.
  • Key Fact: Each stage of spiritual growth has its own unique strengths (such as the energy of “young men”) and its own unique vulnerabilities.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 John 2:12–14

Message 4: Birth and Infancy: Survival Basics

  • Overview: Every believer starts at the same place: spiritual infancy. This message focuses on the “survival basics” of the new life in Christ, primarily the craving for the “pure milk of the word.”
  • Key Fact: Spiritual infants are characterized by a total dependence on others for “feeding” and a high need for protection and basic nurture.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 2:1–3

Message 5: Look . . . I’m Walking!

  • Overview: The transition from being a passive recipient of the Word to an active doer. Chuck discusses the first steps of spiritual obedience and the “wobbles” that often accompany early growth.
  • Key Fact: Spiritual “walking” begins when a believer moves from merely hearing the Truth to applying it in daily, practical decisions.
  • Scripture Reference: Hebrews 5:11–14

Message 6: The Delights of Childhood

  • Overview: Childhood is a season of wonder and simple trust. Chuck encourages believers to maintain a “childlike” faith—characterized by curiosity and dependence—without becoming “childish.”
  • Key Fact: Jesus taught that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who approach Him with the humility and openness of a child.
  • Scripture Reference: Mark 10:13–16

Message 7: Adult Talk about “Childish Things”

  • Overview: There is a point where a believer must “put away childish things.” Chuck identifies the behaviors that are appropriate for a child but indicate a lack of growth in an adult believer.
  • Key Fact: “Childishness” in the church is often manifested through divisiveness, jealousy, and a focus on self-interest rather than the needs of the Body.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Corinthians 3:1–3

Message 8: Three Proofs of Growth

  • Overview: How do you measure spiritual maturity? Chuck provides three objective benchmarks: a growing knowledge of Christ, an increasing discernment of truth, and a deepening stability in character.
  • Key Fact: Maturity is not measured by how much you know, but by how much your knowledge has transformed your character.
  • Scripture Reference: 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:13–15

Message 9: Adolescents in Adult Bodies

  • Overview: A challenging message regarding spiritual “arrested development.” Chuck describes the frustration of being chronologically old in the faith but spiritually immature.
  • Key Fact: Spiritual adolescence is marked by a “know-it-all” attitude combined with a lack of consistent, sacrificial responsibility.
  • Scripture Reference: Hebrews 5:12; 1 Corinthians 3:1–4

Message 10: When Peter Pan Comes to Church

  • Overview: Drawing on the literary figure who refused to grow up, Chuck addresses the “Peter Pan syndrome” in the church—believers who want the benefits of the family without the responsibilities of adulthood.
  • Key Fact: A healthy church requires “fathers and mothers” in the faith who are willing to mentor the next generation rather than remaining perpetual consumers.
  • Scripture Reference: Philippians 3:12–16

Message 11: What’s Right about Adolescence?

  • Overview: While adolescence can be a time of turmoil, it also brings passion and strength. Chuck explores how the zeal of “young men” in the faith is vital for spiritual warfare and church health.
  • Key Fact: Spiritual adolescents often possess the “word of God abiding in them” and the strength to overcome the evil one in ways that more passive believers do not.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 John 2:14

Message 12: Reasons We Resist Becoming Mature

  • Overview: Why do we stay small? Chuck identifies the common hurdles to growth: the comfort of the familiar, a fear of what God might ask of us, and a lack of spiritual discipline.
  • Key Fact: Resistance to growth is often a subtle form of self-protection that keeps us from the “abundant life” Christ promised.
  • Scripture Reference: Hebrews 6:1–3; Galatians 5:1

Message 13: The Church: Who Needs It?

  • Overview: Growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Chuck makes a compelling case for the necessity of the local church as the “greenhouse” where spiritual maturity is cultivated through fellowship and accountability.
  • Key Fact: Isolation is the enemy of maturity; we are commanded to “provoke one another to love and good works” through regular gathering.
  • Scripture Reference: Hebrews 10:24–25

Message 14: A Story for Adults to Remember

  • Overview: Using a narrative approach, Chuck shares a powerful “story of growth” that illustrates the shift from self-centeredness to God-centeredness.
  • Key Fact: Biblical stories and parables serve as “mirrors” that allow us to see our own spiritual standing more clearly than abstract lists.
  • Scripture Reference: Luke 15:11–32

Message 15: A Song for Adults to Sing

  • Overview: A message on the role of worship and gratitude in the life of a mature believer. Chuck explores how our “song” changes as we grow deeper in the Lord.
  • Key Fact: The mature believer’s worship is rooted in the “theology of the soul” rather than just the emotions of the moment.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 40:1–3; Colossians 3:16

Message 16: Growing Up in God’s Family

  • Overview: The series finale. Chuck synthesizes the lessons learned into a final call to pursue Christ with everything we have, moving toward the goal of “fullness in Christ.”
  • Key Fact: The ultimate goal of growing up in God’s family is to reflect the character of the Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, to a watching world.
  • Scripture Reference: Ephesians 4:11–16

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Meeting God in Familiar Places

A favorite pair of jeans, a home-cooked meal, and a childhood friend: these are just a few familiar things that may bring a smile to your face and fill you with comfort.

Chuck Swindoll unveils new wonders from familiar Bible passages that are too easily forgotten. Become familiar again with your Heavenly Father and rediscover Him in His intimacy, His majesty . . . and His awesomeness.


Just as a favorite pair of jeans or a home-cooked meal brings immediate comfort, certain passages of the Bible feel like “home” to us. Yet, because of their familiarity, we sometimes skim over them, missing the profound majesty they contain. In this series, Chuck Swindoll takes us back to these well-known biblical landmarks. From the green pastures of the Psalms to the grand theological heights of Romans, you are invited to rediscover your Heavenly Father in the places you thought you already knew.

Message 1: God’s Sovereignty in Daniel 4

Sermon Summary Divine sovereignty is a doctrine that often sparks controversy, yet it is meant to provide the ultimate security. Through the dramatic humbling and restoration of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4, we see that God rules in the affairs of men. This message clarifies what sovereignty truly means: that God is in control, He is fair, and His purposes will always prevail, even when the world seems chaotic.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Pride of Man: How self-exaltation distances us from God’s perspective.
  • The Supremacy of God: Recognizing that every breath and every kingdom is under His authority.
  • Humility and Restoration: The beautiful result of acknowledging the Most High as Ruler.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Daniel 4: The testimony of Nebuchadnezzar’s transformation from a proud monarch to a humble worshiper.

Message 2: God’s Comfort in Psalm 23

Sermon Summary Perhaps no passage is more familiar than the Shepherd’s Psalm. Yet, in the midst of life’s “darkest valleys,” we need its comfort more than ever. Chuck explores the intimate relationship between the Shepherd and His sheep, reminding us that we lack nothing when we are in His care. We find peace not in the absence of enemies, but in the presence of the One who prepares a table for us in their midst.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Provision and Rest: Learning to lie down in “green pastures” despite the stresses of life.
  • Guidance and Protection: Finding confidence in the Shepherd’s rod and staff.
  • Eternal Security: The promise that goodness and mercy will follow us all our days.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Psalm 23: A timeless declaration of trust in God’s personal care.

Message 3: God’s Love in Romans 8

Sermon Summary Romans 8 is the “Mount Everest” of the New Testament. In this message, we focus on the unbreakable bond of God’s love. Chuck unpacks the truth that for those in Christ, there is no condemnation and, ultimately, no separation. Whether facing hardship, persecution, or internal struggle, we are reminded that we are “more than conquerors” through the One who loved us.

Key Facts & Themes

  • No Condemnation: The freedom of being justified by faith.
  • The Spirit’s Help: How the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness.
  • Unstoppable Love: The assurance that nothing in all creation can pull us away from God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Romans 8: A soaring look at the believer’s security and the depth of God’s affection.

Message 4: God’s Peace in Philippians 4

Sermon Summary In a world filled with anxiety, Philippians 4 offers a practical prescription for peace. Chuck examines the discipline of prayer and the “guarding” of our hearts and minds. By choosing to dwell on what is true, honorable, and right, we invite the “God of peace” to be with us, allowing us to experience a calm that surpasses human understanding.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Anxiety vs. Prayer: Trading our worries for thankful requests.
  • The Mental Fortress: How our thought life dictates our emotional stability.
  • Contentment: Learning the secret of being satisfied in every circumstance through Christ.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Philippians 4: Paul’s instructions for maintaining joy and peace regardless of external pressures.

Message 5: God’s Blessings in Matthew 5

Sermon Summary The Beatitudes present a standard of “blessedness” that is completely upside-down compared to the world’s values. Chuck explores Jesus’ opening words in the Sermon on the Mount, showing that true happiness isn’t found in strength or wealth, but in poverty of spirit, mourning, and meekness. These are the qualities of those who belong to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Kingdom Heart: Character traits that align us with God’s priorities.
  • Counter-Cultural Joy: Why the “meek” and “merciful” are truly the ones who are satisfied.
  • Spiritual Appetite: The blessing of hungering and thirsting for righteousness.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Matthew 5: The foundational teachings of Jesus on the character of a believer.

Message 6: God’s Promise in Isaiah 9

Sermon Summary Isaiah 9 contains the magnificent prophecy of the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Chuck dives into the weight of these titles, showing how Jesus fulfills every promise God made to a people walking in darkness. This message highlights the hope found in a government that rests solely on His shoulders.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Light in the Darkness: The arrival of hope in a weary world.
  • The Fourfold Name: Understanding the multi-faceted nature of the Messiah.
  • An Eternal Kingdom: The certainty of a reign characterized by justice and righteousness.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Isaiah 9: The prophetic announcement of the birth of the Savior.

Message 7: God’s Gift in Luke 2

Sermon Summary The Christmas story is so familiar that we can lose the “wonder” of the incarnation. Chuck revisits the humble surroundings of the manger and the startling announcement to the shepherds. We are reminded that God’s greatest gift didn’t come in a palace, but in a stable, proving that He is accessible to all who seek Him.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Humility of the Incarnation: God becoming man in the lowliest of circumstances.
  • Good News for All: Why the shepherds were the first to hear the announcement.
  • Glory in the Highest: The angelic response to the birth of the King.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Luke 2: The narrative account of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Message 8: God’s Presence in Joshua 1

Sermon Summary Entering a “new territory” in life requires immense courage. In this final message, we look at God’s charge to Joshua as he took leadership of Israel. The secret to Joshua’s strength wasn’t his own ability, but the promise: “I will be with you.” Chuck encourages us to be strong and courageous by staying grounded in the Word and trusting in God’s constant presence.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Strength and Courage: How to face transition and uncertainty without fear.
  • The Power of the Word: The necessity of meditating on Scripture day and night.
  • The Unfailing Promise: Finding rest in the fact that God will never leave or forsake us.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Joshua 1: God’s encouragement to a new leader on the verge of the Promised Land.

Common Questions about Familiar Bible Passages (FAQ)

Why should I re-study passages I already know by heart? The Word of God is “living and active.” While the text doesn’t change, you do. As you grow and face new life stages, God often reveals new layers of truth and application in familiar verses that you might have missed when you were younger or in a different season.

How can I make my personal Bible study feel “fresh” again? Try reading a familiar passage in a different translation, or imagine yourself as one of the characters in the narrative. Slowing down to meditate on a single word or phrase—rather than rushing through a chapter—can often open up new insights.

What is the “doctrine of sovereignty” in simple terms? Simply put, it means God is the boss. He has the ultimate authority, power, and wisdom to do what He pleases. While we have free will and choices matter, God is never surprised or thwarted; He is working all things together for His good purposes.

Is it really possible to have peace when everything is going wrong? According to Philippians 4, yes. This “surpassing peace” isn’t a feeling you manufacture; it is a gift from God that “guards” your mind. It comes through a deliberate choice to pray and to focus your thoughts on God’s character rather than your problems.

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Rules for Running a Rewarding Race

Are you the worrying type—fearful of the possibilities tomorrow may hold but also grieving mistakes of the past? As we stand at the beginning of a new year, we must admit that we can’t predict the future and we can’t change the past. Trying to do either is a waste of time and energy.

Join Chuck Swindoll for his New Year message and learn from Philippians 3 and Hebrews 12 how to keep your eyes focused on Jesus and run your race of faith this year.


Many people spend their lives either paralyzed by the fear of an unpredictable future or weighed down by the grief of past mistakes. In this focused New Year’s message, Pastor Chuck Swindoll uses the imagery of an athletic race to provide a strategy for spiritual endurance. By applying the “rules” found in the writings of Paul and the author of Hebrews, Chuck teaches us how to strip away the distractions of “yesterday” and “tomorrow” so we can run with purpose and focus in the “today” that God has provided.

1. Rules for Running a Rewarding Race (Hebrews 12:1–2; Philippians 3:12–14)

  • Overview: Addresses the spiritual exhaustion that comes from carrying unnecessary baggage. Chuck identifies the two primary weights: an unchangeable past and an unpredictable future. He encourages believers to “lay aside every encumbrance” and focus exclusively on the “Author and Perfecter” of our faith.
  • Key Fact: A rewarding race is not won by the fastest runner, but by the one who stays in their lane and keeps their eyes fixed on Jesus.
  • Scripture: Hebrews 12:1 – “…let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

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Supernatural Living in a Secular World

What is supernatural living? Freedom from sin. Victorious living. Persevering through suffering. As believers in Christ, freedom, victory, and perseverance are parts of our rightful inheritance, but many of us instead find ourselves still shackled to sin.

Supernatural living is possible—in Christ. Chuck Swindoll invites us to experience Supernatural Living in a Secular World—a series that helps us put into practice the principles of Romans 6–8, break the bonds of sin, persevere in times of testing, and place our trust in providential God.


As believers, we are called to live a life that is distinct from the world around us—a life defined by freedom from sin, victory over trials, and a supernatural peace. In this 5-part study of Romans 6–8, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores how we can move from being “shackled to sin” to living out our rightful inheritance in Christ. This series provides the biblical keys to understanding our new identity, handling spiritual frustration, and trusting in God’s providential care.

1. Dying to Live (Romans 6:1–14)

  • Overview: Explores the theological reality of our union with Christ. Because we have “died” with Him to sin, we are no longer slaves to our old nature but are alive to God.
  • Key Fact: Victory over sin begins with “knowing” our position in Christ, “considering” ourselves dead to sin, and “presenting” our members as instruments of righteousness.
  • Scripture: Romans 6:11 – “Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.”

2. Portrait of a Struggling Christian (Romans 7:14–25)

  • Overview: Addresses the universal frustration of the “inner war”—wanting to do good but finding ourselves doing the very thing we hate.
  • Key Fact: Romans 7 is not a portrait of a failure, but of a maturing believer who has realized that their own willpower is insufficient to conquer the flesh.
  • Scripture: Romans 7:24–25 – “Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

3. Let’s Talk about Our Walk (Romans 8:1–17)

  • Overview: Shifts from the struggle of the flesh to the power of the Spirit. This message explores what it means to “walk according to the Spirit” and the assurance that comes from being God’s adopted children.
  • Key Fact: There is now “no condemnation” for those in Christ, and the Holy Spirit provides the internal power to put to death the deeds of the body.
  • Scripture: Romans 8:1 – “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

4. Glorying and Groaning (Romans 8:18–30)

  • Overview: Connects our present suffering to our future glory. Chuck discusses how the “groaning” of creation and the believer is met by the “interceding” of the Holy Spirit.
  • Key Fact: Our current trials are “not worthy to be compared” with the glory that will be revealed in us.
  • Scripture: Romans 8:28 – “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God.”

5. Providence Made Practical (Romans 8:31–39)

  • Overview: The series conclusion, focusing on the unshakeable security of the believer. If God is for us, no one and nothing can successfully stand against us.
  • Key Fact: Nothing—neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities—has the power to separate the believer from the love of God in Christ.
  • Scripture: Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?”

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Holiday Message 2014

Thinking deeply at Christmas can be difficult. Shopping for presents, decorating the tree with tinsel, family get-togethers, and holiday parties sometimes crowd out the real meaning behind Christmas.

Probing Deeper Into the Incarnation will remind you that before Mary placed baby Jesus in the manger, He existed in heaven with God the Father and God the Spirit. The Son of God became a man and eventually gave up His own life to prove His love for you—and to make it possible for you to love Him in return.


The hustle and bustle of Christmas—shopping, decorating, and parties—can easily crowd out the theological depth of the season. In this holiday message, Pastor Chuck Swindoll encourages us to look beyond the manger and the baby to the profound reality of the Incarnation. By exploring the eternal existence and voluntary humility of Jesus Christ, this message recenters our hearts on the sacrifice that made our reconciliation with God possible.

1. Probing Deeper Into the Incarnation (Philippians 2:6–11)

  • Overview: Explores the “pre-existence” of Jesus, reminding us that He was with the Father and the Spirit long before His birth in Bethlehem. Chuck details the process of kenosis—the voluntary emptying of His divine prerogatives to take on the form of a servant.
  • Key Fact: The Incarnation is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love; the Creator became a creature so that the creature could be reconciled to the Creator.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:7 – “…but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.”

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Celebrate and Trust God

Life is meant to be enjoyed, not merely endured.

We all believe it, but few of us live that truth day in and day out. For most of us, life is a rat race with very little downtime. And to make matters worse, life is often filled with heartache and disappointments and even unexpected trauma. In this special set—which includes messages as well as music—Chuck Swindoll reminds us that, regardless what comes into our lives, life can be enjoyed when we learn to celebrate and trust God.

Life is often a blend of seasons—some that call for exuberant celebration and others that require deep, quiet trust. In this series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores how to navigate these different rhythms by keeping our focus on the character of God. By looking at specific biblical moments of deliverance and the foundational truths of God’s sovereignty, these messages provide the tools to rejoice in the “sunshine” and rely on God in the “shadows.”

Message 1: Celebrate God

Sermon Overview Life is meant to be celebrated, not merely endured, and happiness is an all-important internal choice rather than a result of our exterior circumstances. Charles R. Swindoll turns to the book of Philippians, a letter overflowing with joy that was written by the Apostle Paul while he was under arrest and literally chained to a Roman guard. Rather than spiraling into denial or throwing a pity party over his uncertain future, Paul viewed his captivity as a captive audience, using it as a prime opportunity to share the gospel throughout Caesar’s Praetorian guard. Swindoll outlines four practical principles from Philippians 4 for celebrating God in our daily lives: let hope in God keep you gentle, let prayers to God displace your worries, let the peace of God settle you down, and let thoughts from God fill your mind.

Key Facts

  • Happiness is a Choice: True joy should not fluctuate like a barometer based on unpredictable life circumstances or frustrating daily routines; it is a choice we make from the inside out.
  • Joy in Chains: Despite his imprisonment, Paul was unmistakably happy because his circumstances were completely incidental compared to his internal focus on living for Christ.
  • Displacing Worry: Worry and prayer cannot peacefully coexist; believers are commanded to worry about nothing and pray about everything, allowing the peace of God to guard their hearts.
  • Filtering Thoughts: To live above circumstances and avoid grumbling, believers must intentionally filter their thoughts, meditating only on the best, not the worst—things that are true, honorable, pure, and lovely.

Scripture References

  • Philippians 1:1–21
  • Philippians 2:14
  • Philippians 3:1
  • Philippians 4:4–8
  • Psalm 37:4
  • Psalm 94:19
  • Nehemiah 8:10
  • 2 Corinthians 6:10

Message 2: Trust God

Sermon Overview Delivered on the 10th anniversary of the tragic September 11 attacks, this message provides a profound, sobering perspective on the depravity of humanity and the overarching sovereignty of God. While deeply honoring the victims and first responders of that horrific day, Swindoll reminds believers that personal ownership is temporary and that true security can only be found by trusting God. Drawing from the Old Testament, the message examines the life of David at Ziklag. After an exhausting three-day march, David and his 600 men returned to find their homes burned to the ground and their families taken captive by the Amalekites. Facing mutiny and the threat of stoning from his own grieving men, David refused to panic or run; instead, he “strengthened himself in the Lord his God”. Swindoll challenges believers to cultivate this deep reliance on God before disasters strike, choosing to lean entirely on His presence rather than on human understanding.

Key Facts

  • Providence in Tragedy: While September 11, 2001, was a day of horrific, cowardly violence, an estimated 93% or more of those targeted in the attacks ultimately survived, demonstrating God’s sovereign restraint and protection.
  • Temporary Ownership: Earthly possessions and safe circumstances can vanish in a moment, proving that our personal ownership is temporary and we must hold things loosely.
  • The Anatomy of Trust: Trusting God requires believers to refuse self-reliance, stop manipulating situations to get their own way, and avoid taking charge without prayer.
  • Strengthened in the Lord: When David lost his home, his family, and the loyalty of his men, he chose to trust God, a Hebrew concept that means to roll a heavy weight onto the Lord, confide in Him, and lean on Him completely.
  • Preparation for the Storm: Believers must actively cultivate an intimate walk with God and abide in His shadow daily, long before severe testing and disaster arrive.

Scripture References

  • Proverbs 3:5–6
  • 1 Samuel 30:1–6
  • Proverbs 16:7
  • Psalm 91:1–2

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