#516: "Unashamed" by Matthew West

More Than a Song - Discovering the Truth of Scripture Hidden in Today's Popular Christian Music

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We often think standing unashamed for our faith means making bold, public declarations—but what if it starts in private, consistent, quiet obedience? In this episode of More Than a Song, we take inspiration from Matthew West’s song “Unashamed” to explore the gospel in Romans 1 and examples from the book of Daniel. Discover how a heart resolved in private can stand firm in public…even in the fire or before the lions.

Key Points

• When Paul says he is “unashamed of the gospel,” he follows it up with why — because it is the power of God for salvation.
• Paul’s identity as a servant (Greek: doulos) shapes his purpose and obedience. He belongs to Christ and is sent out by Him.
• Daniel and his friends didn’t stand in anger, but in resolved obedience—a posture developed over time through daily faithfulness.
• Being unashamed isn’t just about standing in public moments—it’s about living faithfully in private ones.
• The gospel is not a New Testament invention. Paul shows it was promised beforehand, centered on Christ, and rooted in Scripture.

Scripture References

• Romans 1:1–6 – Paul introduces himself as a servant, apostle, and one set apart for the gospel.
• Romans 1:15–16 – Paul declares he is not ashamed of the gospel.
• Daniel 1–6 – Daniel and his friends live faithfully, respectfully, and courageously in a pagan culture.
• Acts 26:15–18 – Paul recounts his calling and commissioning by Jesus.
• Hebrews 3:1, John 20:21, Acts 1:21–22, Mark 3:14 – Context for the role of apostle.

Bible Interaction Tool Exercises (BITEs) Used

• Read in context – Don’t pull verses in isolation; read the surrounding chapters.
• Make a list – Especially helpful in unpacking Romans 1.
• Do a word study – Greek terms like doulos (servant), apostolos (apostle), and euangelion (gospel).
• Use multiple translations – Compare how key terms are rendered across versions.
• Slow down – Meditate on phrases and ask, “What does this really mean?”

Additional Resources

• Lyrics - New Release Today
• Free Episode Guide – Download it to interact more deeply with this week’s Scriptures and BITEs.
• BibleHub.com (for free word studies and translation comparison)
• Learn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate Link resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate Link

This Week's Challenge

Spend some time working your way slowly through Romans chapter 1. Take the time to make lists and complete word studies so that you can fully understand what Paul was saying to his first audience — the believers in Rome — and us today. Slip over to Daniel and read the first six chapters. Get caught up in the story. Remember that the men described in these pages were real. They determined in their heart to obey God and follow His ways amid a dark and pagan culture. They stood their ground, and God blessed them in the midst of it. It doesn’t mean they didn’t go through trials, but that they were pr

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