UnstoppableThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week one of the sermon series “Unstoppable”. 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 sharing the gospel involves spiritual warfare and learn to stand firm with the armor of God. This powerful message explores Ephesians 6 and the essential first piece of spiritual armor - the belt of truth. Learn why believers face opposition when sharing their faith and how to overcome spiritual attacks through biblical truth.Key topics covered include understanding spiritual warfare, identifying our real enemy versus people who need the gospel, recognizing deception as Satan's primary weapon, and applying the belt of truth in daily life. Explore how truth isn't just information but Jesus Christ Himself, and discover practical ways to take thoughts captive and stand firm in gospel truths.Perfect for Christians seeking to understand spiritual warfare, believers wanting to share their faith more effectively, church members learning about the armor of God, and anyone interested in biblical teaching on spiritual battles. This message provides practical application for putting on spiritual armor, overcoming deception and lies, standing firm in gospel truth, and developing a culture of gospel sharing.Whether you're struggling with spiritual opposition, want to understand your identity in Christ, or need encouragement in evangelism and witnessing, this biblical teaching offers hope and practical guidance. Learn about the invisible realm of spiritual forces, how to recognize and combat deception, and why surrendering to Jesus as Savior and Lord is essential for spiritual victory.Based on Ephesians 6:10-14, Matthew 16, Acts 1:8, John 14:6, 2 Corinthians 10:5, and other key biblical passages about spiritual warfare, truth, and the Christian life.Important VersesEphesians 6:10-14Matthew 28:18-20Acts 1:8John 14:62 Corinthians 10:3-5Think about it!How can we distinguish between God's truth and the world's version of truth, especially when culture says 'you have your truth and I have mine'?The sermon states that Jesus is not just truth but THE truth. How does this impact how we share the gospel with others who may have different beliefs?What are some specific lies or deceptions that might keep Christians from sharing the gospel faithfully?How can we 'take every thought captive to obey Christ' when we're facing spiritual opposition or discouragement in our mission?In what ways might pride set us up for failure in spiritual warfare, and how can we maintain proper humility while still being bold in sharing the gospel?Apply it!This week, identify one specific lie or deception that has been hindering you from sharing the gospel faithfully. Write down the corresponding truth from God's Word that counters that lie. Commit to memorizing that truth and applying it when you face opposition or discouragement in your mission to share the gospel with others.Key TakeawaysWhen we share the gospel, we engage in spiritual warfare against the powers of darkness, not against peopleThe enemy's primary weapon is deception, seeking to foster dissatisfaction and distrust of God to get us out of the fightThe belt of truth must be fastened around our lives - we must be secured by God's truth, not opinions or feelingsJesus is THE truth, not just a truth, and our lives must be submitted to Him as Savior and LordWe must fight with truth by taking every thought captive to obey Christ and rejecting the enemy's lies

The Invitation of a LifetimeThis message is from Pastor of Discipleship Rick Pierson in this one off sermon. 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 life-changing message behind Jesus' parable of the great banquet in Luke 14. This powerful story reveals God's invitation to salvation and why so many people reject it. Learn about the excuses people make to avoid accepting Christ, from being too busy with careers to wanting to explore other spiritual options first. Understand what happens when we reject God's invitation - the banquet continues without us and our seat gets given to someone else.This biblical teaching explores themes of salvation, grace, forgiveness, and evangelism. Jesus shows how God invites the broken, marginalized, and forgotten to His table - people who could never repay His kindness but desperately need His love. The parable demonstrates that no one is too far gone for God's grace and that Jesus embraces those society rejects.For Christians, this passage reveals our calling to actively share the gospel and compel others to come to Christ. It's not enough to passively believe - we must persistently invite others to experience God's love and forgiveness. The message addresses common objections to Christianity and shows why rejecting Jesus is ultimately irrational given His offers of unconditional love, complete forgiveness, and eternal life.Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding of evangelism and salvation, this exposition of Luke 14 provides practical insights for both personal spiritual growth and sharing your faith with others. Learn how to move from making excuses to accepting God's invitation and then helping others do the same.Important VersesLuke 14:16-24Luke 14:1-6Isaiah 25:6-8Hebrews 4:15Think about it!How does Jesus' healing of the man with dropsy at the beginning of the passage set the stage for the parable that follows?What do you think the three excuses given by the invited guests (buying a field, buying oxen, getting married) reveal about their true priorities?The pastor mentioned that 'Jesus is not worried about catching what you've got - He's paying for what you've got.' How does this truth impact your understanding of God's love for you?Why do you think the host in the parable became angry when the invited guests refused to come? What does this reveal about God's heart?The parable shows the invitation going out to 'the poor, crippled, blind and lame.' What does this teach us about who God values and welcomes into His kingdom?How does this parable challenge us in our mission to 'compel' others to come to Jesus? What does it mean to compel someone without being pushy or manipulative?Apply it!This week, identify one person in your life who hasn't responded to God's invitation to salvation. Pray for them daily and look for an opportunity to share the gospel with them or invite them to church. Remember that you are called to 'compel' them - to urge them strongly but lovingly to consider Jesus' invitation. Don't let fear or past rejections stop you from extending God's invitation to others.Key TakeawaysGod's invitation to salvation is extended to all people, especially the marginalized and those who feel unworthyMany people will make excuses to avoid responding to God's invitation, but these excuses are ultimately irrational given what Jesus offersJesus embraces us in our brokenness and doesn't keep His distance from our problems - He pays for what we've got

Home for ChristmasThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week three 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 true meaning of Christmas through the powerful story of redemption found in the book of Ruth. This message explores why everyone needs a redeemer, regardless of their moral character or good deeds. Learn how Ruth's story perfectly illustrates our need for Jesus Christ as our kinsman redeemer.Key topics covered include:- Why moral people still need redemption- The biblical concept of kinsman redeemer explained- How Jesus became our kinsman through the Incarnation- The ultimate price Jesus paid for our salvation- Why both moral and immoral people need the same Savior- How to respond to suffering with trust instead of bitterness- Practical application for sharing the Gospel during ChristmasThe book of Ruth reveals profound truths about redemption, grace, and God's love. Ruth was an incredibly moral woman who showed sacrificial love and loyalty, yet she remained an outsider until Boaz redeemed her. Similarly, our good works and moral character cannot save us - we all need Jesus as our Redeemer.This Christmas message will help you understand the deeper meaning behind the Incarnation and why Jesus had to become fully human to redeem us. Discover how God's overwhelming love led Him to send His Son as our kinsman redeemer, paying the price we could never pay.Whether you consider yourself moral or immoral, this message reveals why everyone falls short of God's perfect standard and needs the same salvation found only in Jesus Christ. Learn how to move beyond familiarity with the Christmas story to experience fresh wonder at God's incredible gift of redemption.Important VersesRuth 1:16-17Ruth 3:9Ruth 4:9-10John 3:16Philippians 2:6-82 Corinthians 5:21Think about it!How does the context of the time of the Judges (when everyone did what was right in their own eyes) relate to our world today?What made Ruth's commitment to Naomi so remarkable, and what does this reveal about her character?Why do you think God included both immoral women (Tamar, Rahab) and a moral woman (Ruth) in Jesus' genealogy?How does Ruth's status as a foreigner who couldn't change her position relate to our spiritual condition before God?What are the key qualities that made Boaz an effective kinsman redeemer for Ruth?In what ways did Jesus fulfill the role of kinsman redeemer better than any human could?Apply it! This week, identify someone in your life who might be like Ruth or Naomi - someone who is struggling, broken, or in need. Consider how you can practically demonstrate God's love to them and look for opportunities to share the hope of the Gospel. Also, take time to reflect on whether you've been trying to earn God's favor through your own goodness rather than resting in Christ's redemption.Key TakeawaysEveryone has a broken heart due to living in a broken world caused by sin and rebellion against GodBoth moral and immoral people need a redeemer - morality alone cannot change our status before GodJesus is our perfect kinsman redeemer who became human (kinsman) and paid the price for our sins (redeemer)Christmas is fundamentally a love story about God's incredible love for us demonstrated through Jesus.

Home for ChristmasThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week two 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 surprising connection between Christmas and the story of Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute whose faith saved her family from destruction. This powerful message explores why God included scandalous stories in Jesus' genealogy and what it reveals about His character and our spiritual condition. Learn about the warning that comes with Christmas - the reality of coming judgment and Christ's second advent. Understand how Rahab's scarlet cord represents salvation through Christ's blood and why her story of faith appears in Hebrews 11. Explore themes of spiritual adultery, God's patient pursuit of the lost, and the transformation that comes through genuine faith. This sermon addresses questions about God's justice, the inclusion of Gentiles in salvation history, and practical applications for modern believers. Perfect for those seeking to understand the deeper meaning of Christmas beyond the traditional nativity story. Topics covered include biblical genealogies, Old Testament typology, salvation by faith, spiritual transformation, and Christian mission. Whether you're struggling with questions about God's judgment or seeking to understand your own spiritual condition, this message offers hope and challenge. Discover how God's faithfulness to unfaithful people is the true heart of the Christmas message and what it means to be marked by Christ's blood in a world facing judgment.Important VersesJoshua 2:9-11Joshua 2:18Joshua 6:22-25Matthew 1:1-5Hebrews 11:31Think about it!What stands out to you most about Rahab's story, and why do you think God chose to include her in Jesus' genealogy?How does Rahab's response to the spies demonstrate faith in action, not just words?The pastor mentioned that we are all like spiritual prostitutes, giving our hearts to things other than God. What are some common things people turn to for fulfillment instead of God?How does the story of God's patience with the Canaanites help us understand both His justice and His mercy?What does the scarlet cord represent, and how does it point forward to Jesus Christ?How should the warning of Christ's second coming affect the way we live today?In what ways do you see God's faithfulness in your own life, even during times when you've been unfaithful?Who are the 'Rahabs' in your life - people who need to hear about God's grace and salvation?Apply it!This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear about God's grace and salvation (your 'Rahab'). Pray for them daily and look for an opportunity to share the hope you have in Jesus Christ. Also, examine your own heart for any areas where you might be seeking fulfillment from things other than God, and commit to turning back to Him as your ultimate source of satisfaction.Key TakeawaysChristmas comes with a warning - Jesus came once as a baby, but He will return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords to bring final judgmentChristmas comes with an opportunity - God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentanceChristmas comes with a challenge - we must respond with genuine faith that goes beyond words to submission and surrender to Jesus ChristGod faithfully pursues unfaithful people, demonstrating His grace by including people like Rahab in the lineage of JesusWe are all called to be on mission, looking for opportunities to share the gospel with the 'Rahabs' in our lives

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