Home for ChristmasThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week one of the sermon series “Home for Christmas”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Discover the shocking story behind Christmas that most people never hear about. While we typically focus on the nativity scene, the Christmas story actually begins with a scandalous genealogy in Matthew 1 that includes some of the most dysfunctional people in the Bible. This deep dive into Genesis 38 reveals the story of Judah and Tamar—a tale involving deception, sexual immorality, and family breakdown that seems completely out of place in the Christmas narrative.Learn why God intentionally included this controversial story in Jesus' family tree and what it teaches us about grace, redemption, and hope for broken people. This biblical exposition explores themes of family dysfunction, moral failure, and God's incredible grace that transforms even the most scandalous situations into part of His redemptive plan.Key topics covered include the significance of biblical genealogies, the cultural context of ancient marriage customs, the destructive patterns people use to cope with dysfunction, and how Christmas represents God's breakthrough into human brokenness. Perfect for anyone struggling with family issues, moral failures, or wondering if God can use broken people.Whether you're dealing with family dysfunction, personal moral struggles, or simply want to understand the deeper meaning of Christmas beyond the traditional nativity story, this message reveals how God's grace extends to the most unlikely people. Discover why the Christmas story is ultimately about hope for moral failures and God's incredible ability to bring beauty from ashes.Ideal for Christmas season reflection, biblical study groups, or anyone interested in Old Testament stories that connect to the New Testament gospel message.Important VersesMatthew 1:1-3Genesis 38:26Romans 3:23Romans 6:23Think about it!Why do you think God chose to include scandalous stories like Judah and Tamar's in Jesus' genealogy?The pastor mentioned that we often treat the Bible like a 'moral storybook.' How does this story challenge that approach?What does it mean that 'all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God'? How is this more than just not measuring up to a standard?Which of the five dysfunctional ways of dealing with problems (avoidance, medication, revenge, masking, harsh judgment) do you most struggle with?How does Judah's statement 'she is more righteous than I' reveal the problem with comparing ourselves to others rather than to God's standard?How does Jesus' response to the woman caught in adultery (John 8) demonstrate the heart of the Christmas message?What would it look like to stop using 'dysfunction to solve dysfunction' in your current relationships or struggles?Apply it!This week, identify one area where you've been trying to solve a problem through dysfunctional means (avoidance, medication, revenge, masking, or harsh judgment). Instead of continuing that pattern, bring that situation to God in prayer and ask Him to show you how to respond with the grace and love He has shown you.Key TakeawaysEveryone is dysfunctional - all have sinned and fall short of God's gloryDysfunction is destructive - we cannot solve our brokenness through broken meansChristmas represents God's breakthrough - Jesus came to save hopeless moral failuresSalvation is received as a gift, not earned through good behavior

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Executive Pastor Jim George in week eight of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Discover how the early church in Acts 6 transformed criticism into growth and mission advancement. When Greek-speaking widows were overlooked in food distribution, the apostles didn't get defensive or make excuses. Instead, they demonstrated humble leadership by listening to complaints, acknowledging problems, and involving the entire congregation in finding solutions. Learn powerful principles for church leadership, conflict resolution, and community care that remain relevant for modern congregations. This biblical example shows how addressing physical needs differs from humanitarian work by focusing on eternal purposes and spiritual conversations. The apostles appointed seven Spirit-filled men to handle food distribution, recognizing that ministry belongs to the whole church body, not just leaders. Explore how caring for physical needs builds trust, demonstrates God's love, and creates opportunities for gospel conversations. The remarkable results included rapid church growth and many priests coming to faith, proving that humble responses to criticism strengthen witness and advance God's kingdom. Perfect for church leaders, ministry teams, and anyone interested in biblical leadership principles, conflict resolution, community care, and church growth strategies. Important VersesActs 6:1-71 Peter 2:9Hebrews 10:25Matthew 14:13-21John 4:1-42Think about it!How does the early church's response to criticism in Acts 6 challenge or encourage you in how you handle feedback in your own life?The pastor mentioned that 'there's no finish line to health' for churches. What does this mean to you, and how might this apply to our personal spiritual growth?What's the difference between humanitarian work and church work as described in the sermon? Why is this distinction important?The apostles demonstrated humility by listening to complaints and recognizing their limitations. Where in your life do you need to show more humility in receiving feedback or acknowledging your limitations?How can we as a church better identify and address the physical needs of people in our community while maintaining our spiritual mission?What are some practical ways we can build 'relational bridges' with our neighbors, coworkers, or community members that could lead to spiritual conversations?Apply it!This week, identify one person in your 'list of five' (neighbors, coworkers, or community members) and look for a practical way to show God's love through meeting a physical or practical need they have. This could be as simple as bringing them a meal, helping with a task, or offering encouragement during a difficult time. As you serve them, pray for opportunities to build a deeper relationship that could lead to spiritual conversations. Also, spend time in prayer asking God to show you how you can better contribute to the mission of Grace Point beyond Sunday attendance.Key TakeawaysCompassionate care begins with humility - being open to feedback and acknowledging our limitationsThe church must address physical needs of others, following Jesus's example of caring for the whole personCompassionate care is the job of the entire church body, not just the staff or leadershipChurch work differs from humanitarian work by maintaining a spiritual mission focus that leads people to eternal life through relationship with God

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week seven of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Discover how gratitude transforms persecution from intimidation into opportunity for faithful Christian witness. This powerful message explores why following Jesus leads to suffering and how the early church found joy in persecution. Learn biblical principles for rejoicing in difficult circumstances and maintaining faithful witness despite opposition. The apostles in Acts 5 were beaten for preaching about Jesus yet left rejoicing, continuing their mission without ceasing. Find out how persecution creates unique evangelism opportunities, why suffering for Christ is a privilege, and how eternal security provides stability in every storm. Explore practical ways to practice gratitude in challenges, transform complaints into thanksgiving, and develop supernatural joy that removes persecution's power as Satan's intimidation tool. This message reveals five key reasons to give thanks during persecution: unique witnessing opportunities, suffering for One who is worthy, unshakeable heavenly security, proven divine promises, and being counted worthy for spiritual battle. Perfect for Christians facing opposition, church leaders encouraging persecuted believers, or anyone wanting to understand biblical perspectives on suffering and joy. Learn how gratitude fuels faithful witness and discover practical applications for rejoicing always and giving thanks in all circumstances. Essential viewing for understanding Christian persecution, biblical joy, faithful witness under pressure, and supernatural gratitude that transforms suffering into worship.Important VersesActs 5:29Acts 5:41-421 Thessalonians 5:16-181 Peter 4:12-13John 15:20Think about it!The pastor mentioned that persecution is 'when' not 'if' for faithful Christians. How does this challenge or change your perspective on living out your faith?In Acts 5:29, Peter says 'We must obey God rather than men.' Can you think of a situation where you've had to choose between pleasing people and obeying God? How did you handle it?The apostles rejoiced after being beaten for preaching the gospel. What makes it possible for someone to have joy in the midst of suffering for their faith?The sermon mentions five reasons we can give thanks during persecution. Which of these five resonates most with you and why?How can persecution actually provide unique opportunities for witnessing that we wouldn't have otherwise?The pastor talked about our security in heaven being unaffected by earthly circumstances. How does this truth impact the way you face difficult situations?The message emphasizes rejoicing 'always' and giving thanks 'in all circumstances.' What are some practical ways we can develop this kind of gratitude in our daily lives?Apply it!This week, practice the command from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 by intentionally rejoicing and giving thanks in at least one difficult or challenging situation you face. Look for opportunities to share God's goodness with others, even when circumstances aren't ideal. Consider how you can prepare your heart now for potential future persecution by developing a habit of finding reasons to praise God in all circumstances.Key TakeawaysPersecution is inevitable for faithful Christians who live out the Great CommissionWe can remain bold witnesses through the power of right rejoicing, especially during suffering for Christ

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Plainfield Campus Pastor Jared Seeland in week five of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Important VersesActs 4:23-31Acts 4:10Acts 4:12Think about it!The sermon mentions that only 14% of pastors are satisfied with their prayer life. What do you think makes prayer feel difficult or boring for many Christians?Peter and John chose to tell the new converts about the persecution they faced rather than hiding it. Why do you think transparency about challenges is important in Christian community?The religious leaders asked 'In whose name did you do this?' rather than 'Did you do this?' What does this tell us about the undeniable evidence of God's power?The pastor said 'boldness requires dependence, not competence.' Can you think of a time when you had to depend completely on God rather than your own abilities?How does the resurrection of Jesus change everything about how we approach opposition and challenges?The early Christians immediately acknowledged God's sovereignty when they prayed. How does remembering who God is change the way we pray?What's the difference between living on the 'open roads' of comfortable Christianity versus the 'winding trails' of radical obedience?The sermon mentions that our prayers really do make a difference in what God does. Do you truly believe this? Why or why not?Apply it!This week, identify one area where you've been living in your own competence rather than depending on God. Take a step of obedience in that area that will require you to depend completely on prayer and God's power. Also, establish or recommit to a regular prayer time, whether daily personal prayer or joining with others for intercession.Key TakeawaysPrayer should be as essential to Christian life as breathing is to physical lifeBoldness in Christian living requires dependence on God, not self-competenceWhen we face opposition or 'red lights' in sharing our faith, our response should be prayerOur prayers genuinely make a difference in what God does in the worldLiving in comfortable routine Christianity makes prayer feel boring, but radical obedience makes prayer feel essential

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week four of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Discover how meeting needs can transform your witness and open powerful doors for sharing the gospel. This message explores the biblical strategy used by Peter and John when they healed a lame man at the temple gate, showing how the early church grew from 120 disciples to a world-changing movement in just 200 years. Learn practical steps for becoming a more effective Christian witness through acts of mercy and compassion.Key topics covered include understanding what it means to be a faithful follower of Christ, why meeting physical needs creates opportunities for spiritual conversations, and how to overcome the common barriers that prevent us from seeing and responding to needs around us. The message provides actionable guidance on preparing yourself with resources and time, using your unique gifts to serve others, and recognizing when gospel opportunities are truly open.Whether you struggle with knowing how to share your faith naturally or feel overwhelmed by the needs you see around you, this biblical approach offers hope and practical direction. Discover how God's mercy toward you can motivate and empower you to extend that same mercy to others, creating authentic relationships and meaningful conversations about Jesus Christ.Perfect for Christians who want to grow in evangelism, church members seeking to live out the Great Commission, believers looking for practical ways to serve their community, and anyone interested in biblical approaches to meeting needs and sharing faith. Learn how mercy and mission work together to reflect God's character and advance His kingdom in a world desperate for both physical and spiritual healing.Important VersesActs 3:6Acts 3:16Acts 4:4Matthew 28:18-20Micah 6:82 Corinthians 9:11Think about it!What are some common reasons we tend to avoid or ignore needs around us, and which one do you struggle with most?How does remembering God's mercy toward us change our perspective on showing mercy to others?Peter and John treated the lame man as a person first before meeting his physical need. Why is this important, and how can we better do this?What gifts, resources, or abilities has God given you that you could use to meet needs in your community?Describe a time when meeting someone's physical need opened a door for spiritual conversation. What made that possible?How can we create 'margin' in our lives (time, money, resources) to be ready when God brings needs our way?What's the difference between meeting needs as a 'good person' versus meeting needs as a reflection of God's mercy?How do we discern when it's appropriate to share the gospel after meeting someone's need (red, yellow, green light concept)?Apply it!This week, intentionally look for one need around you that you've been avoiding or overlooking. Take time to really 'see' that person or situation, and take one concrete step to meet that need using the gifts and resources God has given you. Be prepared to share the gospel if the opportunity arises, but focus first on showing God's mercy through your actions.Key TakeawaysMeeting needs is one of the most powerful tools God has given the church for faithful witnessWe must first 'see' needs by turning toward them rather than avoiding themMeeting physical needs often opens doors for spiritual conversations and gospel sharing

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week two of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Overcome fear and share your faith boldly with the power of the Holy Spirit. This powerful message explores how Christians can break free from the fear that prevents them from living out the Great Commission and sharing the gospel with others. Discover the biblical foundation for Spirit-empowered evangelism and learn practical steps to become a bold witness for Christ.Key topics covered include understanding the root of evangelism fear, taking thoughts captive according to Scripture, the promise of power through the Holy Spirit, lessons from the Day of Pentecost, and how the Spirit works in both believers and unbelievers. Learn how Peter transformed from a fearful denier to a bold proclaimer and how the same Spirit that empowered the early church lives in every believer today. This message provides biblical encouragement for Christians struggling with fear in evangelism, practical guidance for sharing faith boldly, and scriptural foundation for Spirit-led witness. Whether you're new to faith sharing or looking to overcome long-standing fears about evangelism, this teaching offers hope and practical steps forward. Perfect for believers seeking to fulfill the Great Commission, overcome fear in witnessing, understand the Holy Spirit's role in evangelism, and develop confidence in sharing the gospel. The message includes reflection questions and practical applications for immediate implementation. Important VersesActs 1:8Acts 2:4Acts 2:37-39Acts 2:41John 14:16-17John 16:8Matthew 28:18-20Think about it!The pastor mentioned that fear often holds us back from sharing the gospel. What are some specific fears people might have about sharing their faith, and how can we address them?How does knowing that the Holy Spirit provides everything we need change your perspective on evangelism and sharing the gospel?Peter went from denying Jesus out of fear to boldly preaching to thousands. What do you think made the difference in his transformation?The sermon emphasized that the Holy Spirit works both in us and in the people we share with. How does this truth encourage you when thinking about evangelism?What's the difference between being prepared to share the gospel and relying on the Holy Spirit? How do we balance both?The pastor mentioned four ways to engage in mission: going globally, going locally, meeting needs, inviting people into relationship, and sharing the gospel. Which of these feels most natural to you and why?How can we practically 'take every thought captive' when fear tries to hold us back from living on mission?Apply it!This week, identify one person from your 'My Five' prayer card (or someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus) and take one specific step toward building a relationship with them or creating an opportunity to share the gospel. This could be inviting them for coffee, offering to help with a need, or simply starting a conversation about spiritual things. Trust that the Holy Spirit will provide the words and opportunity, but be prepared by knowing your own testimony and the gospel message.Key TakeawaysFear is normal, but we don't have to let it control us - the battle against fear happens in our minds and heartsThe Holy Spirit provides everything we need to be faithful witnesses, including boldness, words, and understanding

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week two of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Overcome fear and share your faith boldly with the power of the Holy Spirit. This powerful message explores how Christians can break free from the fear that prevents them from living out the Great Commission and sharing the gospel with others. Discover the biblical foundation for Spirit-empowered evangelism and learn practical steps to become a bold witness for Christ. Key topics covered include understanding the root of evangelism fear, taking thoughts captive according to Scripture, the promise of power through the Holy Spirit, lessons from the Day of Pentecost, and how the Spirit works in both believers and unbelievers. Learn how Peter transformed from a fearful denier to a bold proclaimer and how the same Spirit that empowered the early church lives in every believer today. Important VersesActs 1:8Acts 2:4Acts 2:37-39Acts 2:41John 14:16-17John 16:8Matthew 28:18-20Think about it!The pastor mentioned that fear often holds us back from sharing the gospel. What are some specific fears people might have about sharing their faith, and how can we address them?How does knowing that the Holy Spirit provides everything we need change your perspective on evangelism and sharing the gospel?Peter went from denying Jesus out of fear to boldly preaching to thousands. What do you think made the difference in his transformation?The sermon emphasized that the Holy Spirit works both in us and in the people we share with. How does this truth encourage you when thinking about evangelism?What's the difference between being prepared to share the gospel and relying on the Holy Spirit? How do we balance both?The pastor mentioned four ways to engage in mission: going globally, going locally, meeting needs, inviting people into relationship, and sharing the gospel. Which of these feels most natural to you and why?How can we practically 'take every thought captive' when fear tries to hold us back from living on mission?Looking at the response to Peter's sermon where 3,000 people were saved, what does this teach us about God's heart for the lost and His power to save?Apply it!This week, identify one person from your 'My Five' prayer card (or someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus) and take one specific step toward building a relationship with them or creating an opportunity to share the gospel. This could be inviting them for coffee, offering to help with a need, or simply starting a conversation about spiritual things. Trust that the Holy Spirit will provide the words and opportunity, but be prepared by knowing your own testimony and the gospel message.Key TakeawaysFear is normal, but we don't have to let it control us - the battle against fear happens in our minds and heartsThe Holy Spirit provides everything we need to be faithful witnesses, including boldness, words, and understandingWe can be bold because the Holy Spirit works not only in us but also in the hearts of those we share the gospel withBeing prepared (knowing the gospel, our testimony, and building relationships) works hand-in-hand with trusting the SpiritThe same Holy Spirit who empowered Peter on Pentecost lives in every believer today, giving us the same power to share the gospel boldly

ACTS - PowerThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week one of the sermon series “Acts - Power”. Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am.Overcome fear and learn how to boldly share your faith with confidence. This powerful message addresses the common struggle many Christians face when it comes to evangelism and gospel sharing. Discover why fear keeps us silent and how to break through those barriers to become effective witnesses for Christ. Even introverts can be bold witnesses, and boldness isn't the absence of fear but acting despite it. Learn from the apostle Paul's example of requesting prayer for evangelistic boldness. This message includes actionable steps for identifying five people in your life who need to hear about Jesus and overcoming specific fears through prayer and faith. Perfect for Christians struggling with evangelism anxiety, fear of rejection, or feeling inadequate to share their faith effectively.Important VersesMatthew 28:18-20Acts 1:81 John 4:192 Corinthians 5:14Matthew 16:18Romans 5:8John 1:121 John 3:11 Corinthians 15:3-4Philippians 4:19Think about it!The pastor shared about being terrified to ask for permission to marry despite having 'good news.' How does this relate to our fear of sharing the gospel with others?What do you think is the root cause of why many Christians struggle to share their faith boldly? Do you agree that it often comes down to not loving others the way God does?Acts 1:8 promises we will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. How should this truth change our perspective on our ability to be witnesses?The pastor mentioned four fears that keep us from being bold witnesses. Which of these resonates most with you: fear of rejection, feeling insufficient, fear of missing out, or fear of being ineffective?How does knowing that Jesus lived, died, and rose again 'just as He said' give us confidence in sharing the gospel even when we might face rejection?What does it mean practically that 'it's not up to you' when it comes to changing people's lives and building the church? How should this truth affect our approach to evangelism?The pastor emphasized not waiting for the 'feeling' of boldness before acting. What are some practical first steps we can take to move beyond our fears?Looking at your 'My Five' list of people to pray for, what specific fears do you have about sharing the gospel with them, and how do the truths from Acts 1 address those fears?Apply it!This week, identify one specific fear that has been holding you back from sharing the gospel. Choose one person from your 'My Five' prayer list and take one concrete step toward building a relationship or creating an opportunity to share your faith with them. This could be as simple as starting a spiritual conversation, inviting them to church, or sharing your testimony. Don't wait for the feeling of boldness - trust that God will provide what you need as you step out in faith.Key TakeawaysWe need both love for others and boldness to be effective witnesses for ChristJesus' faithfulness to His word in four areas gives us confidence to be bold: His resurrection, giving us His Spirit, His ascension and promised return, and His commitment to building His church. Being bold doesn't mean having no fear - it means acting in defiance of fearWe don't need to wait for feelings of boldness before acting; God provides courage as we step out in faith . Our job is to be faithful witnesses; God is responsible for changing hearts and building His church