FAITHFUL TO THE FINISH

As Paul neared the end of his life, he did not speak with regret or fear but with confidence and hope. Looking back over decades of faithful service, he knew his race was almost complete and that a heavenly reward awaited him.

His words challenge every believer to live with eternity in view. The Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon that requires perseverance, commitment, and unwavering devotion to Christ. Paul’s testimony reminds us that finishing well is more important than starting well.

In these verses we discover three marks of a believer who is faithful to the finish: Sacrifice, Steadfastness, and Satisfaction.

1. SACRIFICE

“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2 Timothy 4:6). Paul viewed his life as an offering poured out for the glory of God. He had willingly given his time, strength, comfort, and even his life in service to Christ.

Faithfulness always involves sacrifice. Following Jesus requires us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and place His will above our own. A life surrendered to God is never wasted because every sacrifice made for Christ is noticed by Him.

2. STEADFASTNESS

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Paul was not claiming perfection but perseverance. Through imprisonments, beatings, hardships, disappointments, and opposition, he remained faithful to the gospel. He neither abandoned the truth nor turned away from his calling.

Every believer will face obstacles, but God calls us to remain steadfast until the end. Victory belongs not to those who never struggle, but to those who continue trusting Christ through every trial.

3. SATISFACTION

“Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8). Paul’s confidence rested not in his accomplishments but in the promise of Christ. He looked beyond the prison cell to the throne of God and beyond earthly suffering to eternal reward.

The greatest satisfaction for every believer is not found in earthly success but in hearing the Lord say, “Well done.” Those who faithfully love Christ and long for His return can live with joyful anticipation of the reward He has prepared.

Paul finished his race with confidence because he had lived for the One who never fails. His example calls us to offer our lives as a sacrifice, remain steadfast in the faith, and keep our eyes on the eternal satisfaction that awaits God’s people.

May we not simply begin the Christian life with enthusiasm, but finish it with faithfulness, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to be faithful to the finish.

Give us willing hearts to sacrifice for Your glory, steadfast spirits to endure every trial, and eyes fixed on the eternal reward You have promised.

Keep us faithful to Your Word and devoted to Your Son until the day we stand before You.

May our lives bring honor to Christ, and may we finish our race with joy.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

THE EARLY CHURCH AND HOUSE CHURCHES

It is often said that the early church met in homes for the first four hundred years of its existence. While that statement contains an element of truth, it needs careful qualification. The New Testament demonstrates that the earliest Christians commonly assembled in private homes. But it does not teach that homes were the only acceptable place for congregational meetings, nor does history support the claim that house churches remained the exclusive pattern for four centuries. A balanced examination of the biblical and historical evidence is needed.

The New Testament provides several examples of congregations meeting in homes. Paul greeted “the church that is in their house” (Romans 16:5). Similar references are found in 1 Corinthians 16:19, Colossians 4:15, and Philemon 2. These passages show that Christians frequently assembled in the homes of believers. This arrangement was practical. The church was young, often persecuted, and lacked the resources and legal standing to construct dedicated places of worship.

At the same time, the New Testament reveals that Christians were not restricted to homes. In Jerusalem, the disciples continued daily in the temple while also breaking bread from house to house (Acts 2:46). When larger crowds gathered, other locations were used. Paul taught daily in the school of Tyrannus in Ephesus for an extended period (Acts 19:9-10). These examples demonstrate that the meeting place itself was never presented as a matter of divine law. The emphasis was always upon the people rather than the building.

The historical evidence confirms this understanding. During the first three centuries, house churches were unquestionably the most common setting for Christian assemblies. Periodic persecution made private homes a wise and often necessary choice. As congregations increased in size and stability, however, some homes were remodeled specifically for the church gatherings. Archaeologists have uncovered such a structure at Dura-Europos in Syria, dating to about A.D. 240. It included an enlarged meeting room and a baptistry, illustrating that Christians were already adapting buildings for congregational use before Constantine legalized Christianity.

The legalization of Christianity under Constantine in A.D. 313 dramatically changed the circumstances of the church. Christians could now own property openly and construct buildings designed for public worship. Throughout the fourth century, basilicas and other church buildings became increasingly common across the Roman Empire. By the end of that century, dedicated church buildings had become the normal meeting places in many regions.

Some modern advocates of the house church movement argue that meeting in homes is the only biblical model for the church. The evidence does not sustain that conclusion. The New Testament records where Christians met, but it does not bind those locations as perpetual law. Whether believers assembled in a home, a rented school, the temple courts, or a purpose-built structure, the essential elements of assembling remained the same. The church is the people of God, not the place in which they gather.

Others have gone to the opposite extreme by treating church buildings as sacred structures in themselves. The New Testament likewise rejects this idea. Christians are God’s temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; Ephesians 2:19-22). A building is simply a tool that serves the needs of the congregation. It possesses no inherent holiness apart from its use in serving God.

The biblical and historical evidence therefore leads to a balanced conclusion. The earliest Christians ordinarily met in homes because circumstances made that arrangement practical and necessary. They also assembled in other suitable locations whenever opportunities arose. As conditions changed, the church naturally made use of dedicated buildings. The meeting place was never the issue. Faithfulness to the teaching of Christ was. Christians should avoid making laws where God has made none, remembering that the church is defined not by its address but by its allegiance to the Lord.

BDD

ONE BODY, ONE SPIRIT

The church of Jesus Christ is not built upon human traditions, personalities, or preferences. It is built upon the unity that comes from God Himself.

In Ephesians 4:4-7, the apostle Paul reminds believers that although we come from different backgrounds and have different gifts, we share one great spiritual foundation.

There is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father.

Christian unity is not something we create through compromise, but something Christ has already provided through His work. We are called to preserve and display the unity we have received.

This passage reveals three great truths about the people of God: our unity, our identity, and our diversity.

UNITY

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling” (Ephesians 4:4). The church is one because Christ has made us one. The body of Christ is not divided into separate groups competing against one another, but is a living spiritual family joined together by the same Spirit.

Our unity is found in our shared relationship with Jesus Christ. Though believers may differ in opinions, backgrounds, and experiences, we are united by the same Savior and the same hope. The world should see in the church a reflection of Christ’s love and oneness.

IDENTITY

“There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:5-6). Paul reminds us that our identity is not found in earthly distinctions but in our relationship with God.

We belong to one Lord, Jesus Christ.

We confess one faith, the truth of the gospel.

We have been brought into one family by the Father who reigns over all things.

The true believer’s identity is not found in a denomination, a culture, or a personal achievement, but in being a child of God through Jesus Christ.

DIVERSITY

“But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). While the church is one, Christ does not make us identical. He gives different gifts, abilities, and opportunities to each believer.

Unity does not mean uniformity. The same Lord who creates one body equips that body with many members who serve different purposes. Every believer has received grace from Christ and has a role to fulfill in His kingdom.

The church is strongest when each person uses what God has given them for the glory of Christ and the good of others.

The church of Jesus Christ is called to live as one because we belong to one Lord. Our unity comes from the Spirit, our identity comes from Christ, and our gifts come from His grace.

In a world filled with division, the people of God are called to demonstrate the beauty of a united body serving under the headship of Jesus Christ.

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Prayer

Father, thank You for making us part of the body of Christ. Help us to walk in unity with our brothers and sisters, remembering that we share one Lord, one faith, and one hope.

Teach us to value the gifts You have given each believer and use them faithfully for Your kingdom.

May our lives reflect the love and unity of Jesus Christ so that the world may see His glory through His church.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

THE FAITHFUL AND TRUE

Revelation begins with a powerful reminder that Jesus Christ is not only the risen King but the faithful and true Lord who walks with His people in every circumstance. John writes from the lonely island of Patmos, not because he had failed, but because he had remained faithful to the testimony of Jesus Christ.

In his suffering, isolation, and uncertainty, John discovered that earthly circumstances could not separate him from the presence of Christ.

The same Lord who stood with John still stands with His people today. Revelation 1:9-11 teaches us three truths about our faithful Savior: He gives us patience in suffering, His presence in solitude, and a proclamation to share with the world.

Patience - John describes himself as “your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 1:9). The Christian journey has never been promised to be free from hardship. Faithfulness to Christ may bring opposition, rejection, and trials, but the Lord gives His people the patience to endure.

John was on Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, yet he was not defeated. He understood that suffering for Christ was not a sign of God’s absence but an opportunity to experience God’s strength.

The faithful believer learns to wait on God, trust His purposes, and remain steadfast because Christ is faithful even when life is difficult.

Presence - John says, “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice as of a trumpet” (Revelation 1:10). Though John was separated from friends, churches, and familiar surroundings, he was never separated from Christ. The Lord came to him in his loneliness and revealed His glory.

Many times we measure God’s nearness by our circumstances, but God’s presence is not limited by our location or situation. The same Christ who met John on a prison island meets His people in their struggles today.

When the world grows quiet, the voice of Christ remains powerful. When earthly comforts disappear, His presence remains.

Proclamation - The voice of Christ commanded John, “Write in a book what you see and send it to the seven churches” (Revelation 1:11). The revelation John received was not meant to be kept private. The Lord gave him a message to deliver.

Those who encounter the faithfulness of Christ are called to proclaim His truth to others. God comforts us so that we may encourage others. God reveals His Word so that we may share it. The faithful follower of Jesus does not only receive the message of Christ but becomes a messenger for Christ.

The faithful and true Jesus Christ remains the same in every generation. He gives patience when we face trials, provides His presence when we feel alone, and gives us a proclamation when the world needs hope.

John’s circumstances changed, but Christ’s faithfulness never changed. The same Savior who stood with John on Patmos stands with us today.

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Prayer

Faithful and true Lord Jesus, thank You for being with us in every trial and every season of life.

Give us the patience to endure hardship, the awareness of Your presence when we feel alone, and the courage to proclaim Your truth to others. Help us remain faithful to You because You have always been faithful to us.

May our lives be a testimony of Your grace and glory.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

DENOMINATIONS, UNITY, AND THE BODY OF CHRIST

Few subjects have generated more discussion among thoughtful Christians than the question of denominations. Throughout church history, sincere believers have wrestled with whether the divisions that exist among Christians today reflect the will of Christ.

Among those who challenged the modern denominational system most forcefully were Watchman Nee and Witness Lee. Their desire was not merely to criticize existing churches but to recover what they believed was the simplicity and unity of the New Testament church.

While there is much to admire in their vision, there are also areas where a more balanced understanding of God’s word helps us pursue the same goal without reaching unnecessary conclusions.

Nee and Lee began with the conviction that the church belongs to Jesus Christ alone. They observed that the New Testament consistently speaks of “the church in Jerusalem,” “the church in Corinth,” “the church in Ephesus,” and other local congregations identified only by their location.

They concluded that God intended one church in each city rather than multiple organizations distinguished by different names, traditions, or doctrines. They believed denominational titles such as Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, and others unnecessarily divided the body of Christ and encouraged believers to identify with a movement rather than with the Lord Jesus (1 Corinthians 1:10-13).

From this conviction came their teaching that every genuine Christian in a city should simply meet together as the church in that place. Fellowship, they argued, should not be based upon denominational affiliation but upon faith in Christ.

They also emphasized the priesthood of all believers, encouraging every Christian to exercise his or her spiritual gifts rather than depending upon a professional clergy. In many ways, their burden was a call back to the simplicity of New Testament Christianity and a reminder that Christ alone is the Head of His church (Ephesians 4:4-6; Colossians 1:18).

Their concerns were not without biblical support. Jesus prayed that His followers would be one so that the world might believe the Father had sent Him (John 17:20-23). Paul pleaded with the Corinthians that there be no divisions among them and rebuked the party spirit that exalted human leaders (1 Corinthians 1:10-13). He taught the Ephesians that there is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all (Ephesians 4:4-6).

These passages make it impossible for thoughtful Christians to become comfortable with unnecessary division.

However, the conclusion that every city must have only one visible congregation goes beyond what the New Testament actually states. The Bible identifies churches by locality, but it never explicitly commands that all believers in a city must assemble as one organizational body.

In fact, the New Testament speaks repeatedly of churches meeting in various homes (Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 16:19; Colossians 4:15; Philemon 2). In large cities such as Jerusalem and Rome, it is difficult to imagine every believer gathering regularly in one place. The emphasis appears to be not organizational uniformity but spiritual unity.

Likewise, while denominationalism has often produced division and pride, the mere existence of different congregations does not necessarily violate God’s will. The real issue is not the name on the building but the attitude within the heart. A congregation may reject every denominational label and still become sectarian if it believes it alone represents the true church.

Conversely, believers in different fellowships may genuinely recognize one another as brothers and sisters in Christ, cooperate in the gospel, and demonstrate the unity for which Jesus prayed.

The New Testament consistently calls believers to receive one another because Christ has received them (Romans 15:7). We are commanded to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, not to manufacture unity through organizational mergers (Ephesians 4:3).

Unity is created by the Holy Spirit through our common life in Christ. Our responsibility is to preserve it through humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

This balanced approach allows us to appreciate the burden of Nee and Lee without adopting every conclusion they reached. Their longing for the visible unity of God’s people was commendable. Their emphasis on Christ as the only Head of the church was thoroughly biblical. Their desire to eliminate party spirit deserves careful consideration.

At the same time, true unity cannot be achieved simply by abandoning denominational labels or insisting upon one congregation in every city. Unity grows whenever believers exalt Christ above themselves, submit to God’s word, love one another sincerely, and recognize all who belong to the Lord as members of His one body.

The church of Jesus Christ is larger than any denomination, fellowship, movement, or tradition. It includes every person who has been redeemed by the blood of Christ and born of the Spirit of God.

While local congregations will continue to differ in leadership, worship style, and secondary convictions, every believer should strive to live in a way that reflects the unity already established by Christ. The goal is not organizational sameness but spiritual oneness.

When Christ becomes greater than our labels, and His kingdom becomes more important than our traditions, we move much closer to the unity He prayed for and the witness the world desperately needs.

BDD

Livestream Preaching Times for Wednesday, July 22, 2026

5:30 AM

“The Faithful and True”

(Revelation 1:9-11)

10:00 AM

“One Body, One Spirit”

(Ephesians 4:4-7)

2:00 PM

“Faithful to the Finish”

(2 Timothy 4:6-8)

TikTok: @dewaynedunawayministries

All times CST

THE DARK END OF THE STREET

Sometimes in life, people like to hide.

There are corners of the heart where memories are buried, wounds are covered, and secrets are kept away from the eyes of others.

The phrase “the dark end of the street” brings to mind a place of loneliness, regret, and hidden struggles. Many people walk through life carrying burdens that others never see.

So the beautiful message of God’s word is that there is no darkness deep enough to hide from the presence of God. The psalmist declared, “If I say, ‘Surely the darkness shall fall on me,’ even the night shall be light about me” (Psalms 139:11-12).

1. THE HIDING PLACES OF SIN

Sin often leads people into darkness. It promises freedom but creates chains. It offers pleasure but eventually brings pain. Many people attempt to hide their failures from others, but nothing is hidden from the eyes of the Lord. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that all things are naked and open before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account (Hebrews 4:13).

Adam and Eve tried to hide from God after their disobedience in the garden, but the Lord came seeking them (Genesis 3:8-9). Their story reveals a truth that continues throughout humanity: we may hide from people, but we cannot hide from God.

The dark places of life are often where shame grows. The enemy whispers that our failures define us and that restoration is impossible. But Christ came into the darkness to bring forgiveness and healing. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5).

2. THE SEARCHING LIGHT OF GOD

God does not avoid the dark places. He enters them. Jesus did not come only for those who appeared righteous and successful. He came for sinners, the broken, and the forgotten. He reached out to those others rejected and brought hope to those who had nowhere else to turn.

The woman at the well carried a painful past and a wounded reputation, yet Jesus met her in her place of shame and offered her living water (John 4:7-14). Zacchaeus was despised by society because of his profession, but Jesus entered his home and transformed his life (Luke 19:1-10).

The grace of God is like a lamp carried into a dark room. It does not simply expose what is wrong. It reveals the way out. The Lord does not uncover our sin to destroy us but to lead us toward repentance and restoration.

3. THE JOURNEY INTO THE LIGHT

God’s purpose is not for us to remain forever on the dark end of the street. He calls us to leave the shadows and walk in His light. Paul urged believers to walk as children of light, because the fruit of the Spirit is found in goodness, righteousness, and truth (Ephesians 5:8-9).

Walking in the light does not mean we never struggle. It means we no longer hide from God. We bring our weaknesses, failures, and fears before Him, trusting His grace. John wrote that if we walk in the light as Christ is in the light, we have fellowship with God and cleansing from sin (1 John 1:7).

The world has many dark streets: addiction, bitterness, loneliness, guilt, and despair. But no street is too dark for the Savior. The One who walked toward the cross carried the burden of humanity’s sin so that we could walk toward the hope of resurrection.

The darkest night always gives way to morning. The sinner who turns to Christ discovers that the end of the street is not a dead end. It is the beginning of a new path filled with mercy, grace, and eternal hope.

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Prayer

Our Father, thank You for entering the dark places of our lives with Your saving light. Help us stop hiding our struggles and bring everything before You.

Forgive our sins, heal our wounds, and guide us into the fullness of life found in Jesus Christ. May we walk faithfully in Your light and become a reflection of Your grace to others.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

ACCEPTING CHRIST

Every person must eventually answer the greatest question of life: What will I do with Jesus Christ? Many know about Him, admire His teachings, or respect His character, yet the Bible calls us to something greater than mere knowledge.

God invites us into a personal relationship with His Son through faith. Jesus declared, “He who believes in the Son has everlasting life” (John 3:36). To accept Christ is to receive Him as Lord and Savior, trusting Him alone for forgiveness, new life, and eternal hope.

1. THE INVITATION OF CHRIST

The invitation of Jesus is extended to all people. He does not call only the righteous, the strong, or the worthy. He calls sinners, the weary, and the broken. Our Lord said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). No one is beyond His grace, and no one is excluded from His call.

The Lord stands ready to receive all who come to Him in faith. “Whoever comes to Me I will by no means cast out” (John 6:37). His invitation is filled with mercy because His desire is to save rather than condemn. God demonstrated His love by sending His Son so that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

2. THE RESPONSE TO CHRIST

Accepting Christ is more than agreeing with certain facts about Him. It is a response of faith that surrenders the heart to His authority. The Bible teaches, “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). Faith receives what God freely offers through His Son.

This response includes repentance as we turn from sin and place our trust in Christ. Peter proclaimed, “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19). To receive Christ is to leave behind the old way of life and begin following Him with a willing heart.

3. THE BLESSINGS OF CHRIST

Those who receive Christ receive far more than forgiveness alone. They become children of God, are reconciled to the Father, and receive the gift of eternal life (Romans 5:1, John 10:28). The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within them, producing a new heart and a new desire to obey God (Romans 8:9).

Christ also gives purpose for the present and hope for the future. “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The old life passes away, and a new life begins. Though believers still face trials, they walk with the assurance that Christ will never leave them nor forsake them (Hebrews 13:5).

Jesus willingly came into the world to accomplish the work of redemption, laying down His life for our sins and rising again in victory (Philippians 2:8; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

Let us not delay our response to Christ. Let us receive Him with faith, follow Him with obedience, and rejoice in the salvation He freely gives. The Savior still calls today, and all who come to Him will find grace, forgiveness, and everlasting life.

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Prayer

Our Father, thank You for sending Your Son to save us from our sins. We praise You for Your grace that welcomes all who come to Christ in faith.

Help us to trust Him completely, turn from sin, and follow Him faithfully each day. May our lives reflect the new life we have received through Him, and may we boldly share His invitation with others.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

LISTEN

In a world filled with countless voices, one of the rarest virtues is the ability to truly listen. People are eager to speak, eager to defend their opinions, and eager to make their thoughts known.

Wisdom often begins not with speaking but with hearing. “Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). A listening heart is a humble heart, and humility is the doorway through which God’s wisdom enters.

1. THE CALL TO LISTEN

God has always called His people to listen. Throughout the Bible, the Lord repeatedly spoke the words, “Hear, O Israel,” reminding His people that obedience begins with hearing His voice (Deuteronomy 6:4-5). Before we can walk in God’s ways, we must first pay attention to God’s word.

Jesus often said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15). These words were not simply a call to hear sounds with physical ears. They were a call to receive truth with a willing heart. Many heard the teachings of Christ, but only those who received them were transformed by them.

2. THE CHARACTER OF LISTENING

True listening requires more than silence. A person can be quiet and still have a closed heart. Biblical listening involves humility, patience, and a willingness to be changed. The proud person listens only to confirm what he already believes, but the humble person listens because he desires truth.

Solomon understood this when he asked God for “an understanding heart” so he could judge wisely and discern between good and evil (1 Kings 3:9). Wisdom grows in the soul that is willing to receive instruction. “The ear that hears the rebukes of life will abide among the wise” (Proverbs 15:31).

3. THE CONSEQUENCE OF LISTENING

What we listen to shapes who we become. The voices we allow into our hearts influence our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Jesus taught that the wise person hears His words and puts them into practice, becoming like a house built upon a rock (Matthew 7:24-25).

When we listen to God’s word, we discover direction for our steps, comfort in our struggles, and correction when we wander. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalms 119:105). The voice of God leads us safely when the voices of the world create confusion.

The greatest example of listening is found in Jesus Himself. He lived in complete fellowship with the Father, seeking His will above all else. He said, “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge” (John 5:30). The Son listened perfectly, obeyed completely, and showed us the beauty of surrender.

Let us become people who listen carefully. Let us listen to God before we listen to the world. Let us listen to wisdom before we speak foolishly. Let us listen with compassion before we answer with judgment. A heart that listens is a heart prepared for the work of God.

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Prayer

Our Father, give us ears to hear Your voice and hearts ready to obey Your word. Remove the pride that keeps us from receiving correction and the distractions that keep us from hearing You clearly.

Teach us to listen with patience, love, and humility. May our lives be guided by Your truth and shaped by the voice of Christ.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

JUSTICE

Justice is one of the great pillars upon which God has built His moral government. A world without justice would be a place where the weak are forgotten, the wicked prosper without restraint, where truth is treated as though it has no value.

But the God of heaven is not indifferent to the cries of the oppressed or the actions of the guilty. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before Your face” (Psalms 89:14).

The Lord is both loving and righteous, and He will never abandon what is right.

1. THE CHARACTER OF JUSTICE

True justice begins with the character of God Himself. Human judgments may be mistaken, influenced by pride, prejudice, or incomplete knowledge. But God’s judgment is perfect because He sees what no human eye can see.

The Lord knows every motive, every secret, and every hidden action. Abraham asked, “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25). The answer is certain. The Lord cannot act contrary to His own righteous nature.

Because God is just, His people are called to pursue justice. The prophet Micah declared that the Lord requires us to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).

Justice is not merely a matter of laws and courts. It is a matter of the heart, revealed in how we treat our neighbors, our families, and those who have no power to repay us.

2. THE CORRUPTION OF JUSTICE

Sin has damaged every human institution. Even things designed for good can be twisted by selfish hearts. The Bible warns about those who call evil good and good evil, who take away justice from the innocent and turn aside the needy (Isaiah 5:20-23). When people reject God’s wisdom, justice becomes vulnerable to human pride.

The greatest danger is when a person demands justice for others but ignores his own need for mercy. Jesus warned those who focused on the faults of others while overlooking their own failures (Matthew 7:1-5).

Before we stand as judges, we must first stand humbly before God. The same righteousness we desire from others must begin with repentance in our own hearts.

3. THE CROSS OF JUSTICE

The cross of Jesus Christ reveals the perfect harmony of God’s justice and mercy. God did not ignore sin, pretend it was harmless, or simply overlook rebellion. Instead, the Son of God bore the penalty of sin so that forgiveness could be offered to sinners.

Paul wrote that God demonstrated His righteousness through Christ, showing that He is both just and the One who justifies those who believe (Romans 3:23-26).

At Calvary, justice was satisfied and mercy was displayed. The guilty can be forgiven because the innocent Savior took our place. The cross teaches us that God does not excuse evil, but He provides a way for sinners to be redeemed.

The Christian who understands God’s justice should become a person of compassion and integrity. We should defend what is right while remembering that we are recipients of grace. We should speak truth while walking in humility. We should seek justice while extending mercy.

One day, all wrongs will be made right. Every hidden deed will be revealed, every injustice will be answered, and the perfect Judge will bring His righteous judgment upon the earth (Ecclesiastes 12:14; Revelation 20:11-12).

Until that day, let us trust God’s justice, reflect His character, and proclaim the mercy found in Jesus Christ.

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Prayer

Righteous Father, teach us to love what You love and hate what You hate. Give us hearts that seek justice without pride and mercy without compromise.

Help us reflect Your character in our actions and trust Your perfect judgment when we do not understand the ways of the world. May we always look to Jesus Christ, where justice and mercy meet.

In His name, Amen.

BDD

THE WEIGHT OF WORDS

Words are among the smallest things we possess, yet they carry tremendous power. A sentence spoken in a moment can encourage a discouraged heart, restore a broken relationship, or wound a soul deeply.

Though words cannot be seen, their effects can be felt long after they have been spoken. The Bible says that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).

The wise person learns that speech is not a casual matter but a sacred responsibility before God.

1. THE CONTROL OF WORDS

The first mark of wisdom is learning to control what we say. The tongue is small, but James compared it to a fire that can cause great destruction if it is not governed (James 3:5-6). Many troubles begin not with great actions but with careless words spoken without thought.

Self-control in speech requires a heart that has been surrendered to God. Jesus taught that the mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart (Matthew 12:34). If the heart is filled with anger, pride, or bitterness, those things will eventually find their way into our conversations. But when the heart is filled with Christ, our words become instruments of grace.

2. THE CHARACTER OF WORDS

The words we choose reveal the character we are developing. The follower of Christ is called to speak words that build rather than destroy. Paul instructed believers to let no corrupt communication come from their mouths, but only what is good for edification and encouragement (Ephesians 4:29).

A godly tongue speaks truth with love. It does not flatter falsely, gossip carelessly, or criticize harshly. Instead, it seeks to restore, comfort, and strengthen. Solomon wrote that “a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11). The right words at the right time can become a blessing from God.

3. THE CONSEQUENCE OF WORDS

Because words are powerful, they also bring consequences. Jesus warned that people will give account for every careless word spoken (Matthew 12:36-37). This does not mean that God is waiting to condemn us for every imperfect sentence. It means that our speech reveals what is happening within our hearts, and God takes the condition of our hearts seriously.

Our words also influence others spiritually. A parent’s words can shape a child. A friend’s words can strengthen faith. A Christian’s words can either draw people toward Christ or push them away. The world is filled with voices of anger and division. The people of God should offer words of hope, truth, and love.

The believer should remember that every conversation is an opportunity to represent Christ. Before we speak, we should ask whether our words honor God, help others, and reflect the character of our Savior. A surrendered tongue becomes a tool in the hands of God.

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Prayer

Our Father in heaven, teach us to use our words wisely. Forgive us for the times we have spoken carelessly, and help us to guard our tongues with humility and love.

Fill our hearts with the grace of Christ so that our speech may encourage, strengthen, and bring glory to Your name. May our words always reflect the goodness of the One we serve.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

Livestream Preaching Times for Tuesday, July 21, 2026

5:30 AM

“From Chaos to Creation”

(Genesis 1:6-10)

10:00 AM

“A Royal Line of Grace”

(Matthew 1:1-6)

2:00 PM

“Making the Most of Your Time

(Ephesians 5:15-17)

TikTok: @dewaynedunawayministries

All times CST

LONGING FOR THE NEARNESS OF CHRIST

Nothing in this world can fully satisfy the human heart except the conscious presence of Jesus Christ. David expressed this hunger when he wrote, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You, O God” (Psalms 42:1).

The greatest desire of every believer should not merely be answered prayers or earthly blessings, but a deeper experience of the Lord Himself. Eternal life is found in knowing Him, and every true child of God longs to draw nearer to the One who first loved us (John 17:3).

The Lord has already demonstrated His love beyond question. At the cross He reconciled us to God, removing our guilt and bringing us into His family (Romans 5:8-11).

Because of His sacrifice, we are no longer strangers but beloved children who may come boldly before the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:14–16). We do not approach Him with fear of rejection but with confidence that we are welcomed through His righteousness and not our own.

But the Christian life is more than remembering what Christ has done. It is enjoying daily fellowship with the living Savior. Jesus promised, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him” (John 14:23).

The Holy Spirit delights in making Christ real to our hearts, strengthening us, comforting us, and reminding us that we are never alone (Romans 8:15–16; 2 Corinthians 13:14).

As we walk by faith, the Lord refreshes our souls with a special awareness of His presence. These moments cannot be manufactured, but they are precious gifts of grace. They strengthen weary hearts, calm anxious minds, and fill us with joy unspeakable (1 Peter 1:8).

They remind us that our Shepherd still walks beside us and that His goodness and mercy follow us every day (Psalms 23:1–6).

One day our faith will become sight. We will see the King in His beauty, and we shall be like Him because we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2).

Every longing for closer fellowship will finally be fulfilled when we stand in His presence forever, where there will be no distance, no sorrow, and no interruption of communion (Revelation 22:3–5).

Until that day, let us seek Him with all our hearts, knowing that He delights to reveal Himself to those who diligently seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13; James 4:8).

___________

Prayer

Father, deepen my love for Your Son. Let my greatest desire be to know Him more fully and to walk in close fellowship with Him each day.

Draw me near when my heart grows cold, strengthen my faith when I cannot see, and keep my eyes fixed upon the day when I shall stand in Your presence forever.

In the name of Jesus, Amen.

BDD

MAYBERRY

The fictional town of Mayberry became famous because it represented something many people longed to find: a place where life moved at a slower pace, neighbors knew one another, and ordinary moments carried extraordinary meaning.

Through the television series that introduced this small community to millions, Mayberry was portrayed as a place of front porches, friendly conversations, family relationships, and simple routines. It was not perfect, but it represented an ideal that many societies struggle to preserve.

The interesting question is why such a simple setting became so memorable. Human beings have always created visions of better communities. We imagine places where trust is common, conflict is resolved, and people recognize their responsibility toward one another.

Mayberry was not built on advanced technology, great wealth, or remarkable achievements. Its appeal came from something far more basic: human connection.

The Bible describes a similar need within the human heart. God did not create mankind to live in isolation but to live in relationship with Him and with one another.

The early believers shared their lives together, caring for each other’s needs and demonstrating a community shaped by love (Acts 2:42-47).

The strength of a society is not measured only by its buildings or inventions but by the character of the people who inhabit it.

Of course, no earthly town can completely fulfill humanity’s deepest hopes. Even the most peaceful communities experience disagreement, disappointment, and failure.

The Bible explains why.

Sin has affected every person and every society (Romans 3:23). The problem of humanity is not merely a lack of better systems. It is a need for transformed hearts.

Jesus did not come to establish a political Mayberry or an earthly paradise. He came to establish the kingdom of God within the hearts of people who would follow Him. He taught that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36). The qualities of that kingdom are righteousness, peace, joy, humility, and love (Romans 14:17; Galatians 5:22-23).

The lesson of Mayberry is not that the past was perfect or that every community can return to another era. The lesson is that people still hunger for kindness, belonging, and peace.

Those desires point beyond themselves to the Creator who made the human heart. The Lord calls His people to become examples of compassion and goodness in whatever community they inhabit (Matthew 5:14-16).

Perhaps the greatest community we can build is not one based on nostalgia but one shaped by the character of Christ. A place becomes better when people forgive more quickly, serve more willingly, and love more deeply.

The world does not ultimately need another imaginary town. It needs men and women whose lives reflect the reality of God’s kingdom.

Prayer

Our Father, thank You for the gift of community and the relationships You have given us. Help us become people who bring peace, kindness, and compassion wherever we go.

Teach us to build lives that reflect the love of Christ and to remember that our true home is found in Your eternal kingdom.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

THE JOY OF OBEDIENCE

The world often views obedience as a restriction, but the child of God discovers that obedience is a pathway to freedom.

A heart surrendered to the Lord is not a heart imprisoned by commands. It is a heart released from the confusion of sin and guided by the wisdom of the Creator.

The greatest joy is not found in doing whatever we desire, but in discovering that God’s desires are better than our own. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).

Love and obedience are forever joined together in the life of faith.

1. THE CALL TO OBEDIENCE

God’s call for obedience begins with His authority as our Maker and Redeemer. He does not command because He desires to burden us, but because He knows the way that leads to life.

Moses declared that the Lord requires His people to fear Him, walk in His ways, love Him, and keep His commandments for their good (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).

Obedience is the evidence of genuine faith. James warned that faith without works is dead because true faith always produces action (James 2:17-18).

A person who truly trusts God will desire to follow God’s word, not because he is trying to earn love, but because he has already experienced God’s love.

2. THE CHALLENGE OF OBEDIENCE

Obedience is tested when God’s will conflicts with our own desires. The human heart naturally wants control, but discipleship requires surrender. Jesus prayed in the garden, “Not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42). The Son of God demonstrated that true strength is found in submission to the Father’s purpose.

Many people want the blessings of God without the surrender that brings those blessings. Saul learned this lesson when he offered partial obedience instead of complete obedience. Samuel reminded him, “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). God is not seeking empty religious activity. He desires hearts that willingly follow Him.

3. THE COMFORT OF OBEDIENCE

The obedient life is a blessed life because it walks in harmony with God’s design. The psalmist declared, “Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord” (Psalms 119:1). Obedience brings peace to the conscience, strength to the soul, and confidence before God.

The greatest blessing of obedience is deeper fellowship with Christ. Jesus taught that those who do the will of His Father are truly His family (Matthew 12:50). As we follow Him, we learn His heart, experience His presence, and become more like Him.

Obedience is not the enemy of joy. It is the doorway to joy. The world promises happiness through self-rule, but Christ offers lasting joy through surrender. The person who places his life in God’s hands discovers that the path of obedience is the path of blessing.

____________

Prayer

Our loving Father, teach us the joy of obeying You. Remove the pride that causes us to resist Your will and give us hearts that gladly follow Your commands.

Help us to trust Your wisdom above our own desires and to walk faithfully in the footsteps of Jesus. May our obedience bring honor to Your name and joy to our souls.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

EVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD

In 1985, the British band Tears for Fears released the song “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” which quickly became one of the defining songs of that decade. With its memorable melody and thoughtful lyrics, the song captured a tension that has existed throughout human history: the desire for control, influence, and power.

Beneath the cheerful sound was a serious reflection on ambition, conflict, and the human longing to shape the world according to personal desires. It became popular because it spoke to something deeply familiar in every generation. People have always wanted to be in control.

Long before a song expressed that idea, the Bible revealed the condition of the human heart.

From the beginning, humanity has struggled with the desire to rule rather than submit. The temptation in the garden was not merely about fruit. It was about independence from God.

The serpent promised that mankind could become like God, knowing good and evil (Genesis 3:4-5). The tragedy was that humanity already possessed something greater: fellowship with the Creator. In reaching for control, man lost communion.

The desire to rule the world often begins with the desire to rule our own lives without God. We want our plans, our timing, and our purposes to sit upon the throne.

But the Lord declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein” (Psalms 24:1). We are not owners in the ultimate sense. We are stewards. Every breath, ability, opportunity, and blessing comes from the hand of God (James 1:17).

The irony of human ambition is that those who seek power often become servants of the very things they hoped to control. The pursuit of wealth can enslave the wealthy. The pursuit of recognition can imprison the famous. The pursuit of influence can create a hunger that is never satisfied.

Jesus asked, “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). The world may be gained and yet the heart may be lost.

The Savior revealed a different path to greatness. When His disciples argued about who would be greatest, Jesus taught them that greatness in His kingdom is found through humility and service. “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26-28).

The King of heaven did not conquer by taking from others. He conquered by giving Himself. He did not climb a throne of earthly power but endured the cross for the salvation of sinners (Philippians 2:5-8).

The greatest freedom comes when we surrender our need to rule everything. The person who trusts God no longer carries the impossible burden of controlling every outcome.

We can rest because the Lord reigns. “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalms 103:19). His wisdom is perfect, His love is faithful, and His purposes cannot fail.

The world tells us to grasp power, protect ourselves, and make our own kingdom. Christ calls us to surrender, serve, and seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).

The person who gives God control discovers the peace that human power can never provide.

We were never created to rule the world.

We were created to worship the One who already does.

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Prayer

Our gracious Father, forgive us for the times we have tried to sit upon a throne that belongs only to You.

Teach us to surrender our plans, our desires, and our fears into Your hands. Give us the humility of Christ and the wisdom to seek Your kingdom above all things.

May our lives not be spent trying to control the world, but glorifying the King who rules forever.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR

The greatest danger to the soul is not always found in obvious sins. Sometimes the enemy works through a false view of ourselves. The heart can quietly begin to believe that it is stronger, wiser, or more important than it truly is.

This is the deception of self-exaltation, where the creature forgets his dependence upon the Creator. God’s word warns, “Let no man think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly” (Romans 12:3). The beginning of spiritual wisdom is seeing ourselves in the light of God.

Pride is dangerous because it often disguises itself as confidence, ambition, or even devotion. A person may believe he is seeking God’s glory while secretly seeking his own recognition.

The Pharisee stood in the temple and thanked God, but his prayer revealed a heart centered on himself rather than mercy (Luke 18:9-14). The Lord is not impressed by outward appearance. He searches the heart and desires truth in the inward parts (Psalms 51:6).

The cure for the delusion of greatness is a true vision of Christ. When Isaiah saw the Lord high and lifted up, he did not immediately speak of his own accomplishments. He cried, “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:1-5).

The presence of God does not destroy us. It restores us by showing us both our weakness and His sufficiency. The soul that truly sees Christ has no room to boast except in Him.

Jesus Himself displayed the perfect balance of authority and humility. He knew who He was, yet He willingly became a servant. Though He was in the form of God, He humbled Himself and became obedient even to the death of the cross (Philippians 2:5-8).

True greatness is not found in lifting ourselves above others but in surrendering ourselves to the will of God.

The proud heart seeks to control, but the surrendered heart learns to trust. The believer who walks closely with the Lord recognizes that every gift, every opportunity, and every accomplishment comes by grace.

“What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). When God uses us, the glory belongs to Him. The branch does not boast because it bears fruit. It simply remains connected to the vine (John 15:4-5).

God’s desire is not to crush our identity but to redeem it. He does not call us to think we are worthless. He calls us to understand that our worth comes from belonging to Him.

We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works (Ephesians 2:10). The humble believer becomes more useful because he no longer needs to prove himself. He is free to serve, love, and obey.

Let us ask the Lord to deliver us from every false idea of our own greatness. Let Him remove the pride that hinders His work and replace it with the humility of Christ.

The greatest life is not the life that makes the world notice us. It is the life that allows Christ to be seen through us.

______________

Prayer

Our Father, search our hearts and reveal every place where pride has taken root. Teach us to see ourselves honestly and to find our true identity in Christ.

Remove our desire for human praise and fill us with the humility that comes from walking closely with You.

May the life of Jesus be formed within us, and may all glory belong to Your name.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

Livestream Preaching Times for Monday, July 20, 2026

5:30 AM

SHALL WE CONTINUE IN SIN?

(Romans 6:1-2)

10:00 AM

THE KINGDOM AND THE NAME

(Acts 8:12)

2:00 PM

CONTINUE IN PRAYER

(Colossians 4:2)

6:00 PM

THE BEAUTY OF BAPTISM

(Romans 6:3-4)

TikTok: @dewaynedunawayministries

All times CST

THE GREATEST AMONG YOU

The world has always had its definition of greatness. It measures men by position, possessions, influence, and applause. Thrones, titles, and treasures become the symbols of importance in human eyes.

The kingdom of God turns the values of earth upside down. The Savior who created the heavens took the position of a servant and taught His disciples that true greatness is not found in being above others but in serving them. “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26-28).

The disciples themselves struggled with this lesson. They argued among themselves about who would be the greatest, and Jesus answered their ambition with a child as an example of humility (Mark 9:33-37).

The Lord was not condemning the desire to be useful. He was correcting the desire to be honored. There is nothing wrong with seeking greatness when greatness is measured by love, obedience, and service. The question is not whether we should desire to be great, but what kind of greatness we seek.

The greatest person in God’s sight is not the one who demands attention but the one who gives attention to others. Jesus said, “Whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave” (Matthew 20:27).

The servant does not ask, “How can I be recognized?” but “How can I bless?” Paul urged believers to look not only at their own interests but also at the interests of others, having the same humble mind that was displayed by Christ (Philippians 2:3-5).

Our Lord Jesus is the perfect example of this heavenly greatness. Though He was rich, He became poor for our sake. Though He was Lord of all, He washed the feet of His disciples. Though He deserved worship, He willingly endured the shame of the cross (John 13:12-15; 2 Corinthians 8:9).

The cross reveals that the greatest love is a giving love, and the greatest life is a surrendered life.

Humility does not mean weakness. It is strength under the control of God. Moses was called the meekest man on earth, yet he stood before Pharaoh and led Israel by the power of God (Numbers 12:3; Exodus 5:1-2).

The humble person knows that every ability, opportunity, and blessing comes from the Lord. “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6).

The world may forget those who serve quietly, but heaven remembers. A cup of cold water given in the name of Christ is not overlooked by God (Matthew 10:42). The smallest act of love offered with a sincere heart has eternal value.

Let us therefore seek the greatness that God honors, not the greatness that men celebrate. The path upward in God’s kingdom begins by kneeling low before Him.

____________

Prayer

Our loving Father, teach us the true meaning of greatness. Remove from us the desire for pride and recognition, and give us the heart of a servant.

Help us to follow Jesus, who humbled Himself and gave His life for others.

May our words, actions, and attitudes reflect Your love so that we may be great in Your sight.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD

BLACK RAIN

Some storms bring refreshing showers, and some seem to cover the earth with darkness.

The farmer looks upward and wonders if the clouds will ever break. The traveler looks ahead and wonders if the path will ever become clear.

Even the darkest rain falls under the command of God. What appears to us as a black rain may still be carrying the hidden purposes of a gracious Father. “The clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne” (Psalms 97:2).

Many of God’s greatest servants have walked beneath dark skies. Joseph entered a pit before he entered a palace. David wandered in the wilderness before he sat upon the throne. Job lost nearly everything before he discovered a deeper knowledge of God.

The rain that fell upon their lives was bitter, but it was not without purpose. The Lord does not waste the tears of His children. He uses trials to refine faith, strengthen character, and draw the heart closer to Himself (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4).

Sometimes we cannot understand the clouds above us. We pray, but the answer seems delayed. We seek direction, but the road remains hidden. Yet faith does not rest upon our ability to see through the storm. Faith rests upon the character of the One who controls it.

The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways” (Isaiah 55:8-9). The child may not understand the wisdom of the Father’s hand, but he can trust the Father’s heart.

The black rain of suffering can also cleanse what sunshine leaves untouched. Comfort sometimes allows pride to remain hidden, but trials reveal the true condition of the soul.

God uses hardship to remove our dependence upon earthly things and teach us the sufficiency of His grace. Paul discovered this when he pleaded for the removal of his thorn, but the Lord answered, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Yet the believer does not stand beneath the storm without hope. Above every dark cloud shines the promise of Christ. Jesus entered the darkest hour of human history at Calvary, bearing the weight of sin and sorrow, but the darkness of the cross gave way to the glory of the resurrection.

The same God who turned a tomb into a testimony can turn our trials into triumphs (Matthew 28:5-6; Romans 8:28).

One day the last storm will pass away. The clouds will disappear, the tears will be wiped away, and the children of God will stand in everlasting light.

Until that day, let us remember that no darkness is greater than our Savior, and no rain falls beyond His control.

The black rain may fall upon the earth, but the rainbow of God’s promise still stretches across the heavens (Genesis 9:13-16; Revelation 21:4).

___________

Prayer

Our gracious Father, when dark clouds gather over our lives, help us to trust Your wisdom and rest in Your love. Teach us not to fear the storms You allow, but to see Your hand working through them.

Strengthen our faith, refine our hearts, and keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus Christ. May every trial draw us closer to You until the day we stand in Your eternal light.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

BDD