More than a Feeling - Compassion like ChristThis message is from Pastor Jared Seeland in week three of the sermon series “More than a Feeling - Compassion like Christ” 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 amFinding Opportunities in Life's Distractions: A powerful exploration of Christ-like compassion and how to embrace life's interruptions as opportunities for meaningful impact. Discover practical ways to develop genuine compassion in a world filled with distractions and competing priorities. Learn how Jesus's example of responding to interruptions can transform your approach to daily challenges and relationships. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their faith, improve their relationships, or find purpose in life's unexpected moments. Topics include emotional intelligence, spiritual growth, Christian living, biblical teaching, personal development, ministry, discipleship, faith journey, life purpose, and relationship building. Explore how to overcome compassion fatigue, develop emotional resilience, and make a lasting difference in others' lives through practical, actionable steps.Important VersesLuke 7:11-17John 11:35Matthew 9:36Think about it!How do you typically respond to interruptions in your daily plans?What prevents us from showing genuine compassion to others in need?How can we better recognize opportunities for ministry in our daily distractions?What does it mean that 'death is not a natural part of life' as mentioned in the sermon?How can we maintain compassion in a world filled with negative news and tragedy?What does it mean to 'interrupt hopeless processes by interjecting Jesus'?How can we balance protecting our own emotional well-being while still showing compassion to others?What practical steps can we take to expand our 'sphere of influence' for showing Christ's compassion?Now, Apply it!This week, instead of avoiding interruptions, intentionally look for opportunities to show Christ's compassion in unexpected moments. Keep a journal of these encounters and how God used these 'distractions' for His purposes.Key TakeawaysCompassion sees opportunity in every distractionJesus welcomes interruptions and moves toward brokennessTrue compassion leads to restorationWe must be willing to see people and their pain as Jesus doesOur sphere of influence is where we can make the most impact

More than a Feeling - Compassion like ChristThis message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week two of the sermon series “More than a Feeling - Compassion like Christ” 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 amDiscover the transformative power of compassionate forgiveness and how it mirrors God's unconditional love. Learn practical steps to move beyond hurt and bitterness toward genuine reconciliation. Explore the profound lessons from the prodigal father's example of extraordinary grace and radical forgiveness. Understanding true compassion, healing relationships, forgiveness, Christian living, spiritual growth, biblical teaching, relationship restoration, emotional healing, Christian counseling, faith journey, personal transformation, grace, mercy, reconciliation, prodigal son story, father's love, God's forgiveness, spiritual development, Christian character, biblical principles, life application, practical Christianity, emotional wellness, family relationships, Christian community, spiritual maturity, biblical wisdom, relationship advice, Christian leadership, pastoral teaching, biblical interpretation, spiritual guidance.Important VersesLuke 15:20Colossians 3:12-13Romans 2:41 John 3:2Philippians 1:6Think about it!How does the father's response in the parable challenge our typical human responses to being wronged?What's the difference between empathy and true biblical compassion?Why do you think it's significant that the father ran to meet his son while he was still far off?How does focusing on God's compassion toward us help us develop compassionate hearts toward others?What are some practical ways we can 'put on compassionate hearts' in our daily lives?How does the world's view of forgiveness differ from God's model of forgiveness?What role does pride play in preventing us from extending forgiveness to others?How can remembering God's forgiveness of us motivate us to forgive others?Apply it!This week, identify one person in your life whom you've struggled to forgive. Spend time each day praying for them and asking God to help you see them through His compassionate eyes. Take one practical step toward extending forgiveness to them, whether through a conversation, letter, or act of kindness.Finally...True compassion is more than a feeling - it's a movement that starts in the heart and leads to actionGod's forgiveness is based on His compassion, not the quality of our repentanceWe are called to forgive others as radically as God has forgiven usDeveloping compassion starts with understanding and receiving God's compassion for us

More than a Feeling - Compassion like Christ This message is from Pastor of Discipleship Rick Pierson in week one of the sermon series “More than a Feeling - Compassion like Christ” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Discover the transformative power of divine compassion through Jesus Christ's example. Learn about the deep meaning of 'splanknizomai' - the unique Greek word that describes Jesus's compassionate heart and actions. Explore powerful examples of Christ's compassion in action, from feeding thousands to healing the sick and comforting the grieving. Understand how this divine compassion can transform your life and relationships. Key topics include biblical compassion, Christian living, spiritual growth, Jesus's ministry, healing, miracles, discipleship, Christian character, faith in action, and practical Christianity. Learn how to develop Christ-like compassion through spiritual surrender, Holy Spirit guidance, and practical application in daily life. Perfect for anyone seeking to deepen their faith, understand God's heart, or learn how to show genuine compassion to others. Important Verses Exodus 34:6-7 Matthew 15:29-38 Mark 1:40-42 Luke 7:11-15 Matthew 9:35-38 Think about it: What does the word 'compassion' mean to you personally? How does Jesus' compassion differ from human compassion? Why do you think compassion is described as a catalyst for action in the sermon? Can you recall a time when you felt moved to act out of compassion? What was the outcome? How can we cultivate a heart of compassion in our daily lives? What barriers might prevent us from acting compassionately, and how can we overcome them? In what ways can our compassion reflect the character of Jesus to others? How can we ensure that our compassion leads to meaningful action rather than just feelings? Apply it! This week, identify one person in your life who is in need of compassion. Take a specific action to help them, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a thoughtful gesture, and reflect on how this aligns with the compassion of Jesus. Key Takeaways Compassion is a defining characteristic of God, as seen in Jesus' actions. True compassion leads to action, not just feelings of sympathy. Jesus' compassion is deeply rooted in His character and is a model for us to follow. Compassion can transform lives and bring glory to God. Believers are called to embody Jesus' compassion in their interactions with others.

Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World This message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week four of the sermon series “Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Finding lasting joy in a world full of sadness and disappointment can feel impossible. Discover powerful insights from the Wedding at Cana about maintaining joy through life's challenges. Learn practical ways to find genuine happiness even when circumstances are difficult. This message explores the difference between temporary and eternal joy, how to maintain perspective during trials, and practical steps for experiencing lasting peace and contentment. Perfect for anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges. Main Verses John 2:1-11 1 Peter 2:21 Hebrews 12:2 Psalm 104:14-15 Jeremiah 2:13 Think about it! What does the story of the wedding at Cana teach us about Jesus' mission and His understanding of joy? How can we find joy in the midst of sorrow, especially when sharing our faith with others? What does it mean to 'rejoice in the Lord always,' and how can we apply this in our daily lives? How does the concept of eternal joy help us cope with the temporary sadness we experience? In what ways can we serve others in their sadness, as Jesus did? How can we use temporary joys in life as invitations to eternal joy? What role does community play in reminding us of the joy that is to come? How can we prepare ourselves for the 'wedding feast of the Lamb' and live ready for Jesus' return? Now apply it! This week, identify one area of your life where you feel sadness or disappointment. Reflect on how the promise of eternal joy can bring you peace and hope in that situation. Share this perspective with someone who might be struggling. Key Takeaways True joy is found in the hope of eternal life with God. Jesus exemplifies maintaining joy even in the face of rejection and sorrow. We are called to serve others in their sadness and point them to eternal joy. Temporary joys can be used as invitations to the eternal joy found in Christ. Living with the perspective of future joy helps us endure present sorrows.

Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World This message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week three of the sermon series “Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Discover the transformative power of finding joy in God's mission to seek and save the lost. Learn how Jesus demonstrated radical love by welcoming society's outcasts and how His example challenges our approach to ministry today. Explore practical ways to overcome judgment, fear, and skepticism that prevent us from experiencing true joy in God's redemptive work. This powerful message addresses Christian living, spiritual growth, faith sharing, evangelism, discipleship, and kingdom impact. Understanding God's heart for the lost transforms how we view others and leads to authentic joy in ministry. Perfect for those seeking to deepen their faith, grow in ministry effectiveness, or understand biblical joy. Main Verses Luke 15:1-10 Isaiah 53:6 John 10:14 1 Peter 2:21 Think about it! What are some things in your life that bring you joy, even when they are difficult? How does the joy of Jesus differ from worldly joy? Why do you think Jesus found joy in seeking and saving the lost? What does it mean to value what Jesus values? How can we join in the search for the lost in our daily lives? What are some barriers that prevent us from sharing our faith? How can we celebrate repentance in our community? What steps can we take to ensure we are not like the Pharisees, grumbling instead of rejoicing? How to apply it! This week, identify one person in your life who may be far from God. Pray for them daily and look for an opportunity to share the love of Jesus with them. Key Takeaways True joy comes from valuing what Jesus values. Joining in Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost brings deep joy. Repentance should be celebrated as it brings joy to heaven. Imitating Jesus involves more than just actions; it requires a change of heart. Fear and skepticism can hinder us from experiencing the joy of sharing our faith.

Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World This message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week two of the sermon series “Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Finding true joy through suffering might seem contradictory, but it's a transformative spiritual principle that changes lives. Discover how embracing challenges with love, obedience, and service leads to lasting fulfillment. Learn practical ways to maintain joy during trials, develop Christ-like character, and find purpose in difficulty. This powerful message explores the connection between suffering and joy, spiritual growth, Christian living, faith journey, biblical teaching, spiritual transformation, purpose in pain, Christian character development, finding meaning in hardship, and living a purpose-driven life. Perfect for anyone seeking deeper spiritual understanding, dealing with trials, or wanting to grow in their faith journey. Gain insights into maintaining peace during difficulties and discovering God's purpose in challenging seasons. Important Verses John 15:8-11 Matthew 7:13-14 1 Peter 2:21 Colossians 3:16 Romans 8:17 Think about it now: What does it mean to you that all humans seek happiness, as Blaise Pascal suggests? How do you differentiate between temporary happiness and lasting joy? Why do you think Jesus spoke about joy in the context of suffering? How can we apply the concept of 'target fixation' in our spiritual lives? What are some ways we can suffer for the right things, as Jesus did? How does abiding in God's love help us endure suffering? Can you share a time when suffering led to a deeper joy or understanding in your life? What steps can we take to ensure our life's purpose aligns with glorifying God? How to apply it: This week, identify one area in your life where you can choose to suffer for the right reasons—whether it's through serving others, obeying God's commands, or loving sacrificially. Reflect on how this choice can lead to a deeper joy. Don't forget! True joy is found in choosing the right kind of suffering. Jesus' joy was complete even in the shadow of the cross. Abiding in God's love is essential for enduring suffering. Our life's purpose should be to glorify God. Suffering can enhance our ability to reflect Christ and point others to Him.

Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World This message is from Lead Pastor Dan Painter in week one of the sermon series “Crazy Joy - Finding Eternal Joy in a Temporary World” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Discover the transformative difference between temporary happiness and lasting joy in this powerful exploration of finding true contentment. Learn why 70% of people struggle with sadness and how to break free from circumstantial happiness. Uncover the biblical secrets to maintaining joy through life's ups and downs, and understand the profound connection between joy and your relationship with God. This life-changing message reveals practical steps to overcome grumbling, defeat discouragement, and experience genuine, lasting joy regardless of circumstances. Perfect for anyone seeking deeper spiritual fulfillment, dealing with depression, or wanting to understand biblical joy. Important Verses 1 Peter 2:21 John 15:11 Luke 10:20 Philippians 4:4 John 16:22 Think about it! What does it mean to have joy that is not dependent on circumstances? How can we imitate the joy of Jesus in our daily lives? Why is it important to have our joy rooted in what God has done for us? What are some common things people mistakenly place their joy in? How does understanding that joy is a command change your perspective on it? What role does gratitude play in maintaining a joyful heart? How can we remind ourselves of the joy that comes from knowing our names are written in heaven? What practical steps can we take to shift our focus from circumstances to God's promises? Apply it! This week, whenever you find yourself grumbling or complaining, pause and reflect on where your joy is rooted. Shift your focus to rejoicing in the fact that your name is written in heaven and give thanks to God for His unchanging promises. Finally... True joy for Christians should not be dependent on circumstances. God commands us to rejoice always, reflecting His joy. Our joy should be rooted in what God has done for us, not in our achievements. Disordered joy can lead to a loss of joy. Rejoicing in our salvation provides a foundation for constant joy.

Peace on Earth - The Gift of Jesus This message is from Student Ministry Director Daniel Hooper in week five of the sermon series “Peace on Earth - The Gift of Jesus” 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 am Grace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 am Finding Peace in Seasons of Waiting | Biblical Guidance for Difficult Times. Discover powerful insights from John 14 about finding genuine peace during life's waiting seasons. Learn about Jesus's three key promises that transform anxiety into anticipation and give purpose to waiting. Explore practical ways to trust God's timing, rely on the Holy Spirit, and build meaningful community support. Perfect for anyone experiencing uncertainty, waiting for answers, or seeking spiritual growth. Topics include faith, trust, patience, spiritual growth, Christian living, Bible study, prayer, community, Holy Spirit, peace, anxiety, waiting on God, divine timing, spiritual warfare, emotional healing, Christian meditation, biblical promises, hope, encouragement, life purpose, and spiritual transformation. Gain practical tools for navigating life's challenges while maintaining faith and finding peace in God's perfect timing. Important Verses John 14:1-3 John 14:16-19 Romans 8:26 2 Timothy 4:16-17 Hebrews 10:24-25 Think about it! What are some of the challenges you face when waiting for something important? How does our modern culture's emphasis on instant results affect our ability to wait patiently? In what ways can the Holy Spirit provide comfort and guidance during times of waiting? How can community support us in our waiting periods, and what role do we play in supporting others? Reflect on a time when you experienced peace in a period of waiting. What contributed to that peace? How does the promise of Jesus' return influence your perspective on waiting? What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of God's promises during difficult waiting periods? How can we encourage one another to trust in God's timing and promises? Apply It! This week, identify one area of your life where you are waiting for something. Write down any anxieties or frustrations you have about it, and then find a Bible verse that speaks to God's promises related to your situation. Meditate on this verse daily and pray for peace and trust in God's timing. Finally... Peace is not the absence of waiting but trusting in Jesus' promises. The Holy Spirit is our comforter and advocate, guiding us through times of waiting. Community is essential for support and encouragement during waiting periods. Jesus' victory on the cross assures us that our waiting is not in vain. Waiting refines our faith and teaches us dependence on God's sovereignty.