I RENOUNCE | Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant

Main message: The sermon calls believers to “stay in the fight” and not quit when life, racism, fear, or exhaustion make them want to renounce their calling. Using Gideon’s story, the preacher argues that God often reduces the numbers so victory clearly belongs to Him, and that walking away from destructive things can be a path to healing and renewed purpose.

Key points:

• Gideon’s army was reduced so Israel would not boast in its own strength; God wanted the victory to be unmistakably His.
• Many people quit because they are tired, not because they no longer believe, so the sermon urges perseverance through exhaustion.
• The preacher emphasizes celebrating those who stay faithful rather than grieving those who leave.
• “Renounce” can mean walking away from fear, harmful mindsets, sin, and oppressive systems.
• The sermon distinguishes between rejecting dehumanizing practices and honoring the positive work of Black Greek-letter organizations and Black leaders.
• Ultimately, Christians should renounce evil, trust Jesus, and praise God as an act of resistance and faith.

Scriptures mentioned: Judges 7:2-3, Galatians 6:9, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Mark 1:44, Luke 17:14, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Isaiah 54:17, Romans 8:31