Pastor Robert Jeffress has declared the commitment to rebuild the historic sanctuary of First Baptist Dallas after a fire caused considerable damage on Friday 19th July.

Thousands of worshippers attended Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center for Church on Sunday, where, according to FOX 4, Jeffress stated: "We're going to recreate it as a standing symbol of the truth. The unchangeableness, the endurance of the word of God. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God shall stand forever."

He went on to declare: "We cannot allow Satan to have the last word. If we allow that thing to remain in ruins, it will look to the whole world like we have been defeated by the evil one, so we are going to rebuild, we're going to recreate."

Plans for reconstruction are already in motion with Jeffress revealing that "committees are being formed to lay out the plans for the sanctuary". He also noted that insurance would finance the reconstruction and called for increased evangelistic efforts in light of this adversity.

The blaze that engulfed the sanctuary, built in 1890 and recognised as a historical monument in 1968, has prompted concerns about its structural integrity and potential demolition.

Reflecting on recent accusations after attributing divine protection over former President Donald Trump from an assassination attempt, Jeffress remarked: "I've had people... scoff and mock... And I said, 'absolutely.' The Bible says God causes all things to work together for good for those who love him, and all things includes the good and the bad."

Drone footage shared by FOX 4 viewer Elias Canales exposed significant damage but also showed parts of the building still standing.

First Baptist Dallas' journey began in 1868, with its current historic sanctuary erected in 1890 and serving as a secondary sanctuary since a new facility opened in 2013.