Grace Pointe Plainfield Sermons

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Matthew 4:1-4.

# Key Verses

Matthew 4:1-4

Deuteronomy 8:2-3

Hebrews 12:1

Philippians 3:12

1 Timothy 6:12

Questions

Pastor Jared defined holiness as being 'set apart to revealGod's heart.' How does this definition differ from how you've understood holiness in the past?

In what ways might you be experiencing 'sanctification stagnation' in your spiritual life right now?

The sermon mentioned that 'Jesus was perfect, but he had to choose perfection every day.' How does this perspective on Jesus change how you view your own spiritual journey?

What are some 'lesser hungers' that might be distracting you from your deeper hunger for God?

How does your budget and use of time reflect what you truly value? Are there adjustments you feel led to make?

Pastor Jared said, 'The Gospel is not opposed to effort, it's opposed to earning.' What's the difference between these two approaches to spiritual growth?

Jesus responded to temptation by quoting Scripture. How prepared are you to use God's Word when facing your own temptations?

What is one area of comfort in your life that God might be asking you to sacrifice for the sake of greater spiritual growth?

Life Application

This week, identify one thing in your life that you can say 'no' to in order to feed your spiritual hunger for God. This could be fasting from food for a day (sundown to sundown), taking a break from social media, limiting entertainment, or abstaining from something else that typically satisfies your lesser hungers. Each time you feel the desire for what you're fasting from, use it as a reminder to turn to God in prayer, Scripture reading, or worship. Journal about what you discover through this experience of saying 'no' to yourself and 'yes' to God.

Key Takeaways

Holiness is setting ourselves apart to reveal God's heart - it's about becoming more like Jesus in practice.

We are saved by grace through faith, not by works, but sanctification (becoming holy) is the process of discovering the full life Jesus saved us for.

Many Christians are stuck in 'sanctification stagnation' because they're addicted to comfort and unwilling to embrace spiritual disciplines.

Jesus responded to temptation by trusting in a deeper satisfaction than temporary physical needs.

Following Jesus requires conscious effort and sometimes saying 'no' to lesser hungers so we can pursue our deeper hunger for God.

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Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Mark 6:53-56.

# Key Verses

1 Peter 2:9

Ephesians 2:8-9

Romans 4:5

Mark 6:53-56

Questions

Pastor Jared defined holiness as 'being set apart to reflectGod's heart.' How does this definition differ from how you've understood holiness in the past?

In what ways has our culture's moral relativism (the idea that there is no absolute right or wrong) influenced your own thinking or decision-making?

The sermon described three steps in the process of restoration: recognizing Jesus, reaching out to Him, and experiencing restoration. Which of these steps do you find most challenging in your own life and why?

How would you explain the difference between 'works-based salvation' and 'works that flow from salvation' to someone who was confused about this distinction?

Pastor Jared mentioned that many Christians are 'bored' because they're living in moral ambiguity rather than pursuing holiness. Have you ever experienced this kind of spiritual boredom? What was that like?

In the story from Mark 6, people recognized Jesus and immediately brought others to Him for healing. What prevents us from doing the same in our communities today?

The sermon suggested that God can set apart objects, places, and people for His purposes. What area of your life do you need to more fully set apart for God?

How might intentionally pursuing holiness actually lead to more freedom and joy rather than restriction and burden?

Life Application

This week, identify one area of your life where you've beenliving in moral ambiguity or compromise. It might be in your entertainmentchoices, your speech, your relationships, or your work ethic. Ask God to showyou what it would look like to set that area apart for His purposes. Then takeone concrete step toward holiness in that area. Remember, this isn't aboutearning God's favor but about living into the restoration He's already givenyou. Share with the group next week how this intentional pursuit of holinessaffected your experience of God's presence.

Key Takeaways

Holiness means being set apart to reflect God's heart, notjust being morally good.

Our journey toward holiness begins with recognizing ourbrokenness and need for Jesus, reaching out to Him in faith, and experiencingHis restoration.

Salvation comes by grace through faith alone, but aftersalvation, we are called to pursue holiness through works of grace.

Jesus doesn't just save us and leave us as we are - Herestores us for a purpose and calls us to live intentionally for Him.

There is undiscovered beauty and joy in our walk with Jesuswhen we seriously pursue holiness.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPN Executive Pastor Jim George. The scripture reference is from John 10:1-10.

# Key Verses

John 10:1-10

Ephesians 6:12

Questions

Pastor Jim mentioned we are 'co-warriors in a spiritual battle.' What does this mean to you personally, and how does it affect how you approach your daily life?

Jesus says, 'I am the door.' What does this metaphor mean to you, and why do you think Jesus chose this particular image?

The sermon identified several 'revolving fake doors' that the enemy uses to distract us (wealth, influence, numbing behaviors, social justice work, religious activities). Which of these have you found most tempting or distracting in your own life?

How would you explain to someone who thinks Christianity is too exclusive that Jesus being 'the only door' is actually good news?

Pastor Jim emphasized that the door is 'wide enough for everyone.' How does this truth impact how we should view and interact with people who are different from us?

What are some reasons you find it difficult to share your faith with others? How can we overcome these barriers?

The sermon mentioned that many believers forget they're in a spiritual battle. What are some signs that you might be forgetting this reality in your own life?

How can we help 'walk people up to the sheepfold' without trying to push or drag them through the door?

Life Application

This week, identify one 'revolving fake door' that you might be distracted by in your own life - whether it's the pursuit of wealth,influence, comfort, or even religious activities without relationship. Spend time in prayer asking God to help you refocus on Jesus as the true door. Then,identify one person in your life who needs to hear about Jesus, and take a step toward sharing your faith with them - whether that's praying for them daily,inviting them to church, or having a conversation about your own journey of faith.

Key Takeaways

We need a door - because of our sin nature, we are separated from God and need a way back to Him.

Jesus is the only door - not one of many options, but the singular way to salvation.

The door is wide enough for everyone - while exclusive in being the only way, it's inclusive in being available to anyone who believes.

The enemy creates many 'revolving fake doors' to distract us from the true door - including wealth, influence, numbing behaviors, good works, and religious activities.

Our response to Jesus as the door is the most consequential decision we'll ever make, and we're called to help others find this door as well.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Missions Director Mike Wangler. The scripture reference is from John 8:12; 9:1-7.

# Key Verses

John 8:12

John 9:1-7

1 Peter 2:9

Matthew 5:14-16

Revelation 21:23

Questions

What does Jesus mean when He claims to be 'the light of the world'? How would this claim have been understood by His Jewish audience?

In the story of the blind man, Jesus says his blindness was that the works of God might be displayed in him.' How does this challenge our understanding of suffering?

The sermon mentions that we often don't think about light and darkness the way people in biblical times did. How has technology changed our relationship with light and darkness?

How does Jesus' light enable us to 'see clearly'? What areas of your life need His illumination right now?

Mike compared us to the moon reflecting the sun's light. In what ways are you currently reflecting Christ's light to others?

What obstacles prevent you from fully reflecting Jesus' light in your daily life?

The sermon mentions that Jesus' light changes how we see others. How has your perspective of others changed since following Christ?

Revelation describes Jesus as the ultimate source of light in the new heaven and earth. How does this future hope impact how you live today?

Life Application

This week, intentionally look for opportunities to reflectChrist's light in places of darkness. Choose one environment where you spend time regularly (workplace, school, neighborhood, family gathering) and ask yourself: 'How can I better reflect Jesus' light here?' Then take a specificaction to shine His light through an act of kindness, speaking truth, or demonstrating Christ-like character. Remember, you are not the source of light, but a conduit through which His light shines. Journal about how this changes both you and the environment around you.

Key Takeaways

Jesus is the light of the world - this is an inimitable quality that we cannot replicate or become ourselves.

God's light enables us to see clearly both spiritually and physically, as demonstrated in Jesus' healing of the blind man.

We are not the light ourselves, but we are called to reflectJesus' light to others, like the moon reflects the sun.

Jesus' light changes how we see others and transforms the environments we enter.

In the new heaven and earth, Jesus will literally be the source of all light, replacing the sun, moon, and stars.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Director of Student Ministries Jayson Cromer. The scripture reference is from John 14:1-7.

# Key Verses

John 14:1-7

John 10:30

Questions

In the sermon, the pastor mentions that at some point, weall looked at Jesus and decided there was something special about Him worthfollowing. What was that moment like for you personally?

Jesus tells His disciples, 'Where I am going, you cannotfollow.' What do you think He meant by this, and why was this work somethingonly Jesus could do?

How does Jesus being 'the way, the truth, and the life'differ from Him simply showing us the way or teaching us truth?

The sermon states that Jesus reveals the Father. What doesit mean that 'if you've seen me, you've seen the Father,' and how does thisshape our understanding of God?

In what ways does Jesus' promise to 'come again and take youto myself' provide hope in your daily life?

The pastor mentions that there's a point 'where imitationends and adoration begins.' What aspects of Jesus' character can we imitate,and what aspects can we only worship?

How does understanding Jesus' holiness and divinity changehow we approach Him in prayer and worship?

The sermon concludes that 'there is no response sufficientto the reality that is Jesus' other than worship. How might this truthtransform your relationship with Christ this week?

Life Application

This week, take time to meditate on Jesus' promise in John14:3: 'I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you maybe also.' When you face challenges, uncertainties, or fears, intentionallyrecall this promise and let it anchor your hope. Each morning, acknowledge onearea where you need this unshakable hope, and each evening, reflect on how thispromise changed your perspective throughout the day. Consider sharing withsomeone else how this promise of Christ's return and eternal presence gives youcomfort in difficult times.

Key Takeaways

Jesus is the way to the Father - not just showing us theway, but being the very means by which we come to God.

Jesus perfectly reveals the Father - when we see Jesus, weencounter God Himself, not secondhand information about God.

Jesus gives us unshakable hope through His promise to returnand take us to Himself.

The focus of Jesus' promise is not on a location (heaven)but on being with Him - 'to be where Christ is, to behold His glory and dwellin His love, this is heaven.'

There are points in our spiritual journey where imitation ofChrist ends and adoration begins, as some aspects of Jesus' divine nature canonly be worshipped, not imitated.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Teacher Logan McDaniel. The scripture reference is from John 8:58 and John 10:22-39.

# Key Verses

John 8:58

John 10:22-39

Exodus 3:14

Isaiah 55:8

Questions

How does understanding Jesus' unique holiness change the waywe view our relationship with Him?

Why do you think the Jewish leaders struggled so much withJesus' claims about His identity?

The sermon mentions that we sometimes get 'combative' whenconfronted with Jesus' holiness. Have you experienced this in your own life?

How does Jesus defy our expectations today, and how shouldwe respond when He does?

What's the difference between trying to copy Jesus' actionsversus worshiping Him as God?

How does recognizing Jesus' holiness impact our approach todaily life and decision-making?

What are some ways we might rely on our own power instead ofsurrendering to Jesus?

How can we maintain a proper perspective of Jesus' holinesswhile still pursuing a close relationship with Him?

Life Application

This week, take time each day to intentionally create 2-3minutes of complete silence to focus on Jesus' holiness. Write down anyinsights or revelations that come during these times of quiet reflection.

Key Takeaways

Jesus' holiness commands our attention and cannot bereplicated

We cannot become God - we will always be the creature and Hethe Creator

Jesus often defies our human expectations of how God shouldwork

Encountering Jesus' holiness should lead us to worship, notresistance

True belief in Jesus means complete trust and reliance onHis power

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Matthew 26:36-46.

# Key Verses

Matthew 26:36-46

John 14:13

John 15:7

Isaiah 51:17

Questions

How do you typically respond when God seems silent inresponse to your prayers?

What's the difference between God being silent and God beingabsent?

How does Jesus' experience in Gethsemane help us understandour own moments of spiritual darkness?

Why do you think God sometimes allows periods of silence inour spiritual journey?

How can we maintain faith during times when God feelsdistant?

What's the difference between surrendering to God's will andgiving up hope?

How does understanding Jesus' suffering help us trust Godmore in difficult times?

What practical steps can we take to grow in patience duringseasons of waiting?

Life Application

This week, identify an area in your life where you'rewaiting for God's answer. Write down what you're asking for, how you're feelingabout it, and then write a prayer of surrender, following Jesus' example of'Not my will, but yours be done.'

Key Takeaways

God's silence doesn't mean His absence or lack of care

Even Jesus experienced unanswered prayer, showing that it'snot about our lack of faith

True faith means trusting God's wisdom even when we don'tunderstand His timing

Surrender to God's will leads to peace and patience in timesof waiting

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Mark 5:1-20.

# Key Verses

Mark 5:1-20

Ephesians 6:11-12

John 1:1

Questions

How do you typically respond when you encounter disturbing news about world events?

What are some ways we might unintentionally dehumanize people who disagree with us?

How does Jesus' interaction with the demon-possessed man challenge our assumptions about who is 'too far gone'?

What does it mean to 'endure darkness' rather than just cope with it?

How can we maintain hope and optimism while acknowledging the reality of evil in the world?

In what ways might we be putting our trust in 'tribes' rather than in Jesus?

What boundaries might Jesus be calling you to cross to reach others with His love?

How can we better remember our identity in Christ when facing darkness in the world?

Life Application

This week, take 5-10 minutes each day to sit quietly in prayer.

Ask yourself: Where am I feeling angry, anxious, or afraid?

Rather than trying to resolve these feelings immediately, lay them at Jesus' feet and allow Him to speak truth into your identity and situation.

Key Takeaways

Jesus crosses boundaries to pursue and free the oppressed

Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces

True endurance comes from maintaining our identity in Christ

We are called to share hope with others rather than retreat from darkness

Patient endurance is active and challenging, not passive submission

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from John 7:1-13.

# Key Verses

John 7:1-13

James 5:7-9

Numbers 11

Questions

What areas of your life do you find yourself most impatient with God's timing?

How do you distinguish between godly discernment and worldly discontent?

In what ways has modern culture's emphasis on progress affected your spiritual journey?

What are some 'shortcuts' you've been tempted to take instead of waiting on God's timing?

How can we better incorporate prayer, Scripture, and community in our decision-making?

What's the difference between being still/patient and being lazy/inactive?

How has grumbling or complaining revealed impatience in your life?

What decisions are you currently facing that need more intentional seeking of God's timing?

Life Application

This week, identify one decision you need to make. Before rushing to a conclusion, commit to spending time in prayer, studying relevant Scripture passages, and seeking counsel from your Christian community. Document how this process differs from your usual decision-making approach.

Key Takeaways

True patience quiets complaint - our grumbling often reveals our impatience with God's timing

Stop complaining and start obeying - transform discontent into active seeking of God's will

Every decision, big or small, should be filtered through prayer, Scripture, and community

Being in stillness is not laziness - it's recognizing that God alone suffices

Living by God's timing gives our decisions eternal significance

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville, Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM

This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Luke 9:51-56.

# Key Verses

Luke 9:51-56

Colossians 1:21-22

1 Corinthians 5:12

Questions

How do you typically respond when someone rejects or criticizes your faith?

What's the difference between righteous anger and pride-driven anger?

How does remembering God's patience with us help us be patient with others?

What does it mean to have an 'us for them' versus an 'us versus them' mentality?

How can we maintain patience while still standing firm in our beliefs?

What role does pride play in preventing us from being patient with others?

How does the metaphor of planting seeds apply to evangelism and patience?

What practical steps can we take to develop more patience with those who reject our faith?

Life Application

This week, when you encounter someone who disagrees with or criticizes your faith, consciously choose to respond with patience rather than defensiveness. Instead of immediately reacting, take a moment to pray for them and consider how you can show Christ's love through your response.

Key Takeaways

Patience is a crucial characteristic of Christian witness

Pride is the enemy of patience

Evangelism should be approached as planting seeds rather than demanding immediate results

We're called to be patient because we've received patience from God

Our goal should be 'us for them' rather than 'us versus them'

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to Grace Pointe! We're so happy you could join us online

More Information ↓

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 network with campuses in Naperville IL and Plainfield IL

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gracepointe.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: / gracepointeplainfield

Instagram: / gppchurch

YouTube: / @gracepointe / @gracepointeplainfield

Join us in-person at any of our service times: Naperville,Sundays at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM Plainfield, Sundays at 9 and 10:45AM