Grace Point Church: Recent Episodes
Mike McDaniel
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
build rhythms of rest, delight, and worship that you and your family can actually look forward to.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
solitude is what makes space for God's voice.- You don't need to wait for a perfect quiet moment; start small, make it a habit, and turn your worries into prayers.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
and pay attention to what it reveals about where you're really seeking satisfaction.- When you're tempted or struggling, fight back with Scripture, just like Jesus did in the wilderness.- Spend time asking God if there's something He's inviting you to repent of or surrender to Him.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
Moses couldn't get Israel into the Promised Land, and the law can't get you to God. Only Jesus (the greater Joshua) can lead you across.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
how you forgive, how you love, and who you're willing to pursue.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
and that mercy is fully realized in Jesus.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
it's restful; exhaustion is often a sign we've been carrying what was never ours to carry.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
it's preparation. God humbles us by stripping away self-reliance so we can learn to trust him before he leads us into blessing.- The greatest threat to your faith often comes from abundance, not hardship. The generation formed in the desert stayed faithful; those born into prosperity drifted.- When you're in a desert season, go back to the Word. Just as Jesus answered temptation with Scripture, God's words are the sustaining food that carries us through.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansasSonnet 4.6
when the next step feels too big, look back at every time He came through before, and trust He'll do it again.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
to live set apart in a way that reflects whose you are.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
pass down a living, personal story of how God has worked in your life.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
sharpening your children and your own faith happens in the everyday moments: the dinner table, the car ride, the morning routine.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
your peace, your provision, your resurrection.- Whatever grave you're in right now, the resurrection of Jesus means you don't have to stay there.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
he came to be King, and he's asking for full surrender, not casual admiration.- Whatever shame or brokenness you carry, there is no path in your life that King Jesus cannot redeem.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
The life formed by grace overflows grace. What's filling you determines what spills out onto the people around you.
We have a blessed hope. In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, Christians live with confident expectation that Jesus is coming back to make all things right.SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net#Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
it attacks them. You've been given a new name and invited into a mission, so don't shrink back from the broken places around you.
The way forward is to hold fast: to the trustworthy Word and to the gospel that purifies us through Christ alone.
=============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
SUBSCRIBE for weekly sermons, stories, and other resources: https://www.youtube.com/@GracePointNWA?sub_confirmation=1 =============================Connect with Grace Point Church:=============================Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracepointnwaFacebook: https://facebook.com/gracepointnwaWebsite: https://gracepointchurch.net #Sermon #GracePointChurch #NorthwestArkansas
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Grace Point Church met on the evening of June 1, 2025, to vote on Dr. Joel Hastings as our Lead Teaching Pastor. He was unanimously affirmed.
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Message Notes/Group Discussion Guide: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=rJYCk9V3R
Message Notes: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=SJWzw3DopNames of God PDF: https://storage2.snappages.site/KQV4NZ/assets/files/Names-of-God_List.pdf
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Message Notes/Discussion Guide: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=KtffVbl0bGA
Message Notes/ Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=BVjIanH2zua
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=EiNlbAW7kFE
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=IYXleHDM70Y
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=VRgtYvtKXGN
Worship Guide/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=jqnVfSRGe5F
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=qUScCxRjIg2
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=onGDyH_Gyjv
Message Notes/Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=jyk255DHx2Y
Message Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=wGvtE1uez-e
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Message Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=WDCEI0fKYum
Worship Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=ICDANtlXQHP
Message Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=kMADUT57aK
Interactive Message Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=vf51Q_9xqdR
Interactive Message Notes and Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=Pqd8K7E-Ul
Interactive Message Notes and Small Group Discussion: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=DUqjDtVcCm
Interactive Message Notes/Group Questions: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=M7_AHkaUXsG Video: https://gracepointchurch.net/messages Groups: https://gracepointchurch.net/groups
Interactive Message Notes and Group Questions: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=r8FSwI5V1H
“UNLEASHED TO PEACE AND PATIENCE” Series, “Unleash” - Message 5 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor Scripture: Galatians 5:22-23
INTERACTIVE MESSAGE NOTES/GROUP QUESTIONS (copy/paste into your browser):
https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=WmfBim54DU
“UNLEASHED TO LOVE AND JOY” Series, “Unleash” - Message 4 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor
Scripture: Galatians 5:22-23
TWO MANIFESTATIONS OF GOD'S SPIRIT IN US
- Love manifests: EXTREME LOVE
Extreme love is... • Limitless • Selfless • Timeless
- Joy manifests: SUSTAINED JOY
GROUP QUESTIONS Galatians 5:22-23
What is something you don’t understand but you have had to learn to accept?
Describe as best you can the OMNI-presence of God (the fact that God is in all places and time, all the time).
How significant of a part does the Spirit play in the life of great people like JOB and PAUL (read Job 33:4, Acts 17:28, & Romans 8:11)?
Can you name the primary three workings and manifestation of the Holy Spirit?
WORKINGS of the Holy Spirit: 1) Baptized by the Holy Spirit – Acts 1:5; 11:16 2) Anointed by the Holy Spirit - task - Luke 4:18 3) Filled by the Holy Spirit - day to day - Ephesians 5:18
MANIFESTATIONS of the Holy Spirit 1) ASSURANCE of the Spirit – Romans 8:16 2) GIFTS of the Spirit – 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 3) FRUIT of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
What is the difference between "extreme love" that only comes through an infusing the Spirit of God in us (read Romans 5:5), and "natural love" that is common everywhere?
Discuss the three marks of extreme love (LIMITLESS, SELFLESS, TIMELESS).
How is joy different than happiness?
Was Jesus happy about going to the cross (Matt 26:39)? Did Jesus lose his joy in going to the cross (Hebrews 12:2)?
“WALKING IN THE SPIRIT” Series, “Unleash” - Message 3 Brett Ferguson, GPC Deacon, Guest Speaker
Scripture: Galatians 5:16-26
- Walking in the Flesh: allowing my thoughts, emotions, actions, and reactions to be controlled by my corrupt nature.
The Flesh is always: • Defiant • Deceptive • Destructive • Death • Default
- Walking in the Spirit: allowing my thoughts, emotions, actions, and reactions to be controlled by the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is: • Freeing • Flourishing
Walking is war.
Four actions to help win the "War of Your Walk": • Remember you are at war • Blockade the flesh • Resource the spirit • Find your allies
GROUP QUESTIONS
Big Idea: The Holy Spirit is the biggest change agent in the world.
- Talk about some failed new year's resolution. Ask your group about their craziest failed resolution over the years.
- Do you agree with the description Paul gives of life lived in the flesh? How have you seen that lived out?
- How would you describe a life lived "walking in the Spirit?"
- Have you ever experienced that type of life? What was happening then?
- Are you actively mindful of being at war with your flesh?
- How can we win the war for our walk?
- Four Actions to Help Win the War of Your Walk: (Remember you are in a war, Blockade the flesh, Resource the Spirit, Connect to allies)
"Holy Who?" Series, "Unleash," Message 2 January 9, 2022
Group Questions Galatians 3:13-14
If you could ask God any one question about Himself, what would that question be?
How would you explain the TRINITY to a 7-8 year old? (the Triune God, three in one, Father, Son and Holy Spirit)
What is the dominate statement God is making in each person (Father = God FOR us, Son = God WITH us, the Holy spirit= God IN us)
Read Galatians 4:4-6. Identify and explain how the trinity is working in unison with one another.
What does it mean when Mike states that the Holy Spirit "catalyzes" God’s work in us? (Gal 3:2-3; John 3:5-6)
What is a spiritual rebirth? Have you ever been spiritually reborn? (NOTE: Leaders this is a great time to be sensitive to the Spirit in listening to your people and even sharing the gospel to the point of giving someone in your group a chance to follow Christ)
How does God’s Spirit "continue" with us? (read Galatians 4:6-7 and consider the ways God’s spirit continues in us)
2022: TAKING INVENTORY "Unleash" Series, Message 1 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor Psalm 139:23-24
3 Focal Points for God-sized Inventory
- HEART: Search me, O God and know my heart… - v.23a
INVENTORY QUESTION #1 How has my heart deceived me in the past? How much access have I given God to my heart/spirit?
- HEAD: Try me and know my thoughts... - v. 23b
INVENTORY QUESTION #2 Where do I have stinking thinking? How am I nurturing the mind of Christ in me?
- HANDS: ...see if there be any grievous way in me… - v. 24
INVENTORY QUESTION #3 What am I doing in private that if it were none and in the open would bring shame on myself and those closest to me and is an offense to God? What warning lights are going off but I am ignoring
INVENTORY QUESTION #4 What is the biggest decision before you in 2022? How will I invite God’s spirit to Lead me?
ON TIME...EVERY TIME "The Promise" Series, Message 5 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor Galatians 4:4-7
THREE TIMELY MOVES OF GOD
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God's ACTION: He sent His Son
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God's AIM: He redeemed humanity
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God's ADOPTION: He accepts us
"The New Covenant" Series, "The Promise," Message 4 December 19, 2021
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Give a quick review (from memory or your personal notes) about the 3 covenants we have studied so far: Abrahamic, Mosaic, and Davidic.
Describe the context of what was going on with Jeremiah and God’s people when he was a prophet? What is the Exile?
The Mosaic Covenant was written on tablets, where did God promise to write the new covenant? (ANSWER: our heart Jeremiah 31:33)
What role does the Spirit play in the life of new covenant people? (John 16:13; Luke 12:12)
How well do you discern the Holy Spirit in your life?
How does He forgive us? Is He able to forget? Or what does it mean when the Bible talks about God not remembering our sins any more? (Jeremiah 31:34; Psalm 103:12)
"The Reigning Covenant" Series, "The Promise," Message 3 Psalm 89:3-4; 2 Samuel 7:8-16
What is the BLESSING Covenant? What is the DIRECTIONAL covenant? Why are each still relevant and important to us today?
What is the REIGNING covenant? Why do we need to King? What are the dangers of living a life outside the God’s rule in our life? (Read Judges 21:25 and Romans 6:12)
How do you personally pursue Jesus as your King? (Matthew 6:33)
What does your generosity say about your belief in Jesus? How does it speak to His goodness and reign in your life? What are practical ways you can live generously?
How are we to be advancing God’s Kingdom in our world? (Matthew 24:14)
Why are so many people separated from the Covenant(s) of God? (Read Ephesians 2:12)
The Directional Covenant Series, "The Promise," Message 2 December 5, 2021 Exodus 19: 1-6
Remind the group what the Abrahamic Covenant is.
Remind the group what the Mosaic Covenant is.
What is the difference between a UNILATERAL covenant (Abrahamic) and a BILATERAL covenant? Why is this important to our understanding of how we relate to God today?
What value do the 10 Commandments play in our life today?
Read Deuteronomy 6:4-7. Explain how and why it’s so important for the parents to raise children with the 10 commandments as a guiding standard.
How do the 10 commandments point us to Jesus? (Galatians 3:24)
What is my next step of obedience?
THE BLESSING COVENANT Series, "The Promise," Message 1 November 28, 2021
Group Questions
Genesis 12:1-3; 15:7-18
Compare the contrast the similarities and differences between a COVENANT and a PROMISE?
What is a personal favorite promise you have from the Scriptures? Share the promise and the Scriptural reference. Share why it has meant so much to you.
Recall as many facts as you can, as a group, everything you know about the ABRAHAMIC Covenant.
Is the Abrahamic covenant just for the Hebrew people? Why do we know it is a covenant of BLESSING for all humanity? (read Genesis 12:2)
How does Abraham become born again (Genesis 15:6; Galatians 3:6-9)? How is Abraham’s faith a model (or road map) for us to enter the blessed Covenant life with Abraham?
The Grace of Truth Series, Messy Jesus, Message 5 November 11, 2021
Group Notes:
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Who are the people in our society who you have the greatest difficult showing grace towards?
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Who are the people in our society who you have the greatest difficulty showing truth towards?
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It can be challenging to relate to this conversation in our modern society. Does it change the way you view the story if you picture this happening at a local coffee shop or restaurant? If so, how?
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Note the woman’s initial reaction (v.9) Why does it change by verse 11? Why does she get curious?
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How does Jesus meet this woman with the perfect balance of Grace and truth?
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Jesus sets up the theme for conversation by identifying with her needs. If Jesus were to ask you about your needs right now, what would they be?
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Was the "living water" available even to her? Was the offer legitimate? This was her real question. Do you ever wrestle with believing that "living water" could be made available to you?
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Return to your answer for the first question. Do you ever wrestle with believing that living water could be available to even them?
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As we close our series Messy Jesus, how can you be reminded that Jesus’ "living water" is for you? How can you be an example that Jesus’ "living water” is for others by living into His example of grace and truth?
The Grace About Truth Matthew 19:4-9
Why should we see marriage as a GRACE gift to us?
The Bible refers to landmarks and boundaries. What are they? Why are they important? What does the Bible say about people who move the boundaries? (read Hosea 5:10; Deut 27:14,17; Proverbs 23:10,12)
According to what Mike mentioned in the message, there are many different sexual relationship variants out there. How many can you name?
When the religious leaders bring up a religious variant, to what does Jesus point them (Matthew19:8).
How important is it that God speaks into (and helps shape) who we marry? (Gen 2:15,18,20,22; Matthew 19:6)
Why should singleness be considered an option for some? (1 Cor 7: 8)
How do we know that heterosexual marriage is the only God ordained marriage? (Gen 1:28; 2:24-25; Matthew 19:4-9)
How transparent and real does God intend for marriage to be? (Gen 2:25) How does sin damage a marriage intimacy? (Gen 3:4-7)
Our True Identity - Series, "Messy Jesus," Message 3 Caleb Kaltenbach Matthew 22:2-14
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Whose you are defines who you are.
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Follow Jesus more than traditions and trends.
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Think deeper about people, not differently about theology.
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What does Jesus require of my sexuality?
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What am I willing to do to keep and build influence with _________?
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Whose you are defines who you are.
HOOK-UPS AND BREAK-UPS "Messy Jesus" Series, Message 2 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor John 8:1-11
THREE APPROACHES TO DEALING WITH SEXUAL BROKENNESS
- Wholly and holy
• WHOLLY: Bring all the wrong into the light • HOLY: Bring all the wrong into alignment with God
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Personally and introspectively
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Mercifully and repentantly
JESUS IN THE MESS "Messy Jesus" Series, Message 1 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor John 1:9-14
TWO VALUES OF GRACE + TRUTH
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Truth confronts us
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Grace comforts us
Two axioms that balance TRUTH and GRACE
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You can tell the truth and not be a jerk.
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You can give grace without compromising truth.
Freedom in Forgiveness: Not getting stuck in the "NEVER AGAIN" self-protected stance
This is the final message in the Genesis series.
THE POWER OF THE BLESSING Genesis 48-49 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor
THREE RULES FOR TRANSFERRING THE BLESSING
1.The Blessing is INTENTIONAL, not accidental.
2.The Blessing is STRUCTURED, not organic.
THE FAMILY BLESSING: FIVE MAJOR COMPONENTS: 1. Meaningful touch 2. Spoken message 3. High Value 4. Promising future 5. Active commitment
3.The Blessing is PERSONAL, not generic.
Guest Speaker Todd Ahrend shares thoughts on our responsibilities Christians in our daily lives.
GENESIS: PATHWAY TO HEALING, PART 2 Genesis 43-45 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor
THREE STRIDES TOWARD FREEDOM FROM THE PAST
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ANTICIPATE the BLINDSIDE
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EMBRACE your VULNERABILITY
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RESPOND through GOD'S EYES instead of REACTING out of emotion.
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Keep your EXPECTATIONS IN CHECK.
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Feel your FEELINGS.
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Let GRACE GUIDE YOU.
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See GOD'S HAND in your PAIN.
GENESIS: PATHWAY TO HEALING, PART 1 Genesis 42 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor
THREE STRIDES TOWARD FREEDOM FROM THE PAST
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ANTICIPATE the BLINDSIDE
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EMBRACE your VULNERABILITY
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RESPOND through GOD'S EYES instead of REACTING out of emotion.
GENESIS: FROM PRISONER TO PALACE Genesis 41 Mike McDaniel, Lead Pastor
FOUR VIEWS THAT PEOPLE FAR FROM GOD NEED TO SEE IN PEOPLE CLOSE TO GOD:
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GIFTED by GOD (vv 14-24)
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LED by the SPIRIT (v 38)
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TRUSTWORTHY in CHARACTER (VV 40-41)
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HONORABLE in ALL (v 42)
Sunday, September 2 Genesis 40–41:13
How would you rate you own personal, mental, and spiritual health on a scale from 1-10? (10 = Flourishing 5 =Languishing 1= depressed)
When you consider the ways that different people hurt Joseph (family, employer, and friends), how did Joseph’s prison friends show that they abandoned him (40:23)? Have you ever felt like you have been forgotten or abandoned?
How did God continue to speak and reveal truth to Joseph even while he was in prison? (in dreams and interpreting the dreams)
Read Genesis 40:14-15 and put in your own words the kind of pain you hear in Joesph's words? What kind of pain was he feeling?
Why is being patient with God important for our seasons of waiting?
When David wrote Psalm 13, what kind of prayer and reflections did he have about God and his waiting on God?
Sunday, August 29 Genesis 39
Why is character so important? In your personal definition, what is character?
What does it mean when Mike said, "we cannot control the world but we can control our character?"
Why are character and trust inseparable?
What was it about Joseph's character that he was able to build trust so powerfully with Potiphar? (vs. 3)
How did Potiphar's wife test Joseph's character? (Leaders: use your discernment as to how deep you want to go into talking about sexual temptations. For example, if you're in a couples group, you might ask these questions: What are some other ways a person's character can be tested? How do you personally fight to keep your character in check from sexual temptations?)
Why do you think we are told and have it modeled in scripture to run from temptation? Should we not stay and stand our ground against temptation? (vs. 7-12)
Compare and contrast 39:3-4 and 39:21, 23. What were the different circumstances Joseph was in? What does this say about Joseph's consistency of character and God's consistency in our lives?
Genesis Series, Message 26 Sub-Series: Break Free, Message 1
Genesis 37
What observations do you make when you think about Joseph life map story?
Prosperity Palace Palace Freedom
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Pit Prison Family/Famine
Have you ever considered the major chapter headings / changes in your own personal life story? If yes, share any insights you’ve learned from working through your own life story. If not, take a moment and think about what has been one of your highest highs and your lowest lows. What truth about God in the hills and valleys of life have you experienced? (Deut 11:11)
What was God’s plan for Joseph and how did God reveal his plan to him? (Gen 37:5-11). How did God’s plan for Joseph become a tipping point for his brothers' rivalry gone mad?
Can you think of other examples of people doing God’s will, yet experiencing deep pain along the way? (Job, Paul, Moses) Or other people in your own relationship circles?
Read Matthew 5:45. Why do you think God’s will for our life isn’t a pain free plan?
List all the ways that Joseph experienced pain from his family before his 18th birthday. Mike mentioned 11 different ways Joseph experienced pain from his own family. How many pain points can you recall. They are all mentioned in Genesis 37.
What are 2 ways of managing the pain while living God’s Plan?
Genesis 33
Read Genesis 33 to establish the context for the group discussion.
When you hear the word “sustainability,” what do you immediately think about? If you could clear your presuppositions, what would be a good working definition of “sustainability?”
How does having a relationship with Jesus help you to live a sustainable life?
How does Jacob model humility? How does humility disarm conflicts? How did it disarm the 400 warriors of Esau coming to meet Jacob? (Gen 33:1-3)
Share a time you were upset - and someone came with humility - and it immediately lowered the temperature in the room.
What is a biblical response to conflict? Break down Matthew 5:23-24 in as many action steps as you can find (HINT: there are 4 imperative commands/calls to action in the two verses. What is a blblical response to people who continue to stir up conflict? (Titus 3:10)
Compare and contrast Esau’s speed in life vs Jacobs. (Gen 33:12-16)
Talk about which of the 4 tips to avoiding a fast and furious life resonated most to you.
Close by reading Gen 33:18… What does it mean to arrive at your destination SAFELY?
Sunday, August 8 Genesis 32:22-34
What kind of emotional state is Jacob in based on what you read in Genesis 32:1-7?
The text says that Jacob was distressed and afraid and he was alone (Gen. 32:7, 24). Share a time in your life when you were distressed, afraid, and alone. How did you find comfort? How did you cope with it?
Why do you think time alone and stopping the fret is a way God shows Himself to us? (read Psalm 46:10)
Can you think of a time when you spiritually wrestled with God over a decision, a direction He was calling you to take, or maybe like Jacob, wrestling with God being the leader of your life?
Jacob had his father's blessing and that gave Jacob blessings for living physically and emotionally in life. Why was Jacob so insistent on getting the blessing from God, the spiritual blessing? (Gen. 32:26)
What does a spiritual blessing give you that a physical blessing doesn't?
What two blessings come with the spiritual blessings? (answer: new life and redeemed past; see Gen. 32:28-32)
Read Genesis 29:1-20 to establish the context for the group discussion.
What is your favorite love story movie?
The past two massages at GPC, first with Caleb and now with Mike, they both drove home “Serving matters”. Do you agree with their hypothesis? Why or why not?
Mike added to the statement this week: “Serving matters because Love Serves”
How does God’s ABC (Abrahamic Blessing Covenant) model a loving covenant? Re-read how God restates his unilateral commitment to the covenant in each of the generation starting with Abraham. (Genesis 12:3; 26:3-4; 28:14). How does it make you feel when you consider how dysfunctional patriarch’s families were, yet God’s unconditional commitment to his BLESSING covenant?
Read Genesis 29:15-18. Fill in the first blank: Love serves. How did Jacob demonstrate his loyal love for Rachel? In loving the church, how did Paul and the church demonstrate his love for one another: (1 Thessalonians 1:3)
Complete the blank Love serves _________. How does Jacob model “sacrificial love”? (Gen 29:27; 31:41) Fourteen years of faithful service to get the wife whom he loved. Mike shared stories of some people who have been serving in the church for 10 years and longer, many in the same position. What does that tell you about their commitment to love the bride of Christ well?
Should our service of love be a DUTY or a DELIGHT? How do we know that Jacob serving Leban was a delight? Read Genesis 29:20.
Explain this life principle: LIFE PRINCIPLE I LOVE WHAT I SERVE I SERVE WHAT I LOVE
What grade (or class) might your group consider adopting and serving together in loving the next generation?
What is God calling you to "get up" from so that you can serve others?
Caleb mentioned Jesus having the most "significant status." Are you willing to negate status to serve in a way that may not make sense to others around you?
One could say that Jesus "got his hands dirty," meaning that through the physical act of washing dirty feet, he demonstrated a willingness to get into the messy. How is God calling you to get involved in messy acts of service?
How have you and/or your family served within the church in the past?
Jesus mentions in John 13:17 that God will bless the disciples if/when they do these things. What do you think that blessing looks like? For those of you who have followed in this example, can you share how you've been blessed when serving others in this way?
How were you impacted by the ministries highlighted in the gallery on Sunday? Share with the group how God is leading you to serve in a ministry or how He is already blessing you through where you currently serve at GPC.
What is God calling you to "get up" from so that you can serve others?
Caleb mentioned Jesus having the most "significant status." Are you willing to negate status to serve in a way that may not make sense to others around you?
One could say that Jesus "got his hands dirty," meaning that through the physical act of washing dirty feet, he demonstrated a willingness to get into the messy. How is God calling you to get involved in messy acts of service?
How have you and/or your family served within the church in the past?
Jesus mentions in John 13:17 that God will bless the disciples if/when they do these things. What do you think that blessing looks like? For those of you who have followed in this example, can you share how you've been blessed when serving others in this way?
How were you impacted by the ministries highlighted in the gallery on Sunday? Share with the group how God is leading you to serve in a ministry or how He is already blessing you through where you currently serve at GPC.
Sunday, July 18 Genesis 27
What is the biggest legacy passed down that you received from your up bringing ("the good" and "the not so good")? How are you amplifying "the good" and how are you correcting the "not so good" for the next generation you are influencing?
Brainstorm a list of different forms of lies or words for lying: keep them on a white board or in front of people for the entire time together so they can continue to refer back to them. Here is a starter list…manipulate, swindle, white lies, conspiracy theories, fake news, deceitful, 2 faced, misleading, delusional, etc
Read Exodus 34:6-8 and explain what are “generational sins.” Have you ever identified generational sins in your past?
Re-read Genesis 27:18-26 and trace the compounding lies in which Jacob is caught up. How have you seen lies compound in other people’s lives.
How has someone’s lies hurt you in the past? Can you think of a time you weren’t completely honest and when the truth was known what was the impact of the lies?
Why is truth such a irreplaceable element in a relationship?
Sunday, July 11 Genesis 26:19-34
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Sibling Rivalry is at the root of this story - How have you seen sibling rivalry play out in your life or family?
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Some theologians suggest that Issac and Rebekah chose to self actualize (realization or fulfillment of one's talents and potentialities) through their children. Do you see this in the story? What about in Genesis 27 when Rebekah helps Jacob be deceptive? If you are a parent, how does this impact your parenting?
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Esau sold his birthright (a double portion of his father’s wealth and the leadership responsibility of being the eldest in a patriarchal society) for a bowl of stew - the literal translation is some “red stuff”. How have you seen your desire for instant gratification derail the things for which you are created? (Also see Philippians 3:18-19)
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Read Romans 9:16. How does this scripture inform our understanding of both Jacob and Esau - Two men in Abraham’s familial line with all kinds of character flaws, supposed to bring about God’s blessing to the many nations.
Sunday, July 4 Genesis 24:1-9
What were the three heart conditions of the three chairs, based on Mike's message?
How did Abraham demonstrate a hot-hearted faith?
Who have you known or who's been an example to you as having a hot-hearted faith? What kind of impact did they have on your own faith?
What does a lukewarm heart look like?
How did Isaac model a lukewarm heart?
How cold is your heart?
Have you ever seen someone progress from a hot heart to a cold heart? How can you practically help someone when they have lost their passion and their heart's grown cold?
How do you prevent a cooling of your own heart?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Sunday, June 20 Mark 3: 1-6
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What are some of the differences in Mark's version, Matthew's version, and Luke's version of this story? (Mark 3:1-6; Matthew 12:9-13; Luke 6:6-11). What are 2 things that stick out to you?
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Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath (see Mark 2:27). What is the importance of that verse in light of this story?
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Nathan talked about capturing the "characters" in this story in a "6 word story." How would you synopsize the characters in the story in 6 words? The man with the shriveled hand; Jesus; the Pharisees.
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"Through the spirit of God IN you, God wants to USE you to make people BRAND NEW." What would it look like if you lived your life by this mantra this year? What are a couple areas where this may play out in your life?
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What would the "6 word story" for your life be if it was penned today? What do you hope it to be? (NOTE: this may be a thought provoking question. Be sure to give it some thought before your meeting time.)
Sunday, June 13 Hebrews 11:8-19
What is something new you have learned about Abraham from this message series?
What is something new you have learned about being a friend of God from this message series? (give some time to reflect)
Why do you believe God is so vague in what is required or where He is leading us when He calls us to follow? (Heb. 11:8, Mark 1:17, Luke 5:27)
Of the list of God's names, can you say that you have experienced God in any of the same ways Abraham experienced God? When was that and what was that like?
Context/Name/Revelation
Gen 12:1/Initial calling/YHWH/The LORD
Gen 14:18-22/Melchizedek/ěl·yôn/God Most High
Gen 14:19/qnh/Possessor/creator of heaven and earth
Gen 15:1/Battle/māgēn/I am your shield
Gen 16:13/Hagar/ěl·rŏʾî/God who sees
Gen 17:1/Covenant /ěl·šdy/God Almighty
Gen 18:25/Sodom’s sin/špṭ/Judge
Gen 21:33/Treaty w/ Abimelech/ěl·ʿôlām/God Everlasting
Gen 22:14/Offering Isaac/rʾh/The Lord will provide
How comfortable of a life did Abraham live? (read Heb. 11:9) Why do you think one of Americans' chief underlying goals is to find greater comfort?
What would it mean to live with a "sojourner's mentality" today?
Read Hebrews 11:13 & 11:39. What does it mean if we live a full life but don't see all our promises, hopes, and dreams fulfilled? Does it crush your faith? Or are you okay with it?
Why was the offering of Isaac for Abraham a test of faith and a priority check? When have you experienced a real priority check?
How did you first hear about Grace Point? What was it about Grace Point that kept you here?
Joshua led the Hebrew people into the promised land. How many years had it been since God first made the promise to Abram that the land would be theirs?
What kind of emotions do you think Joshua was feeling stepping into Moses' sandals? Read Joshua 1:6-7, 9, & 18. What was the key message that God was communicating to Joshua about leading into the future?
What are two things Joshua asked the people to do before inheriting the promised land?
Read Joshua 4:1-7. Why is remembering and honoring the past so important when moving into the future? (read 1 Chron. 16:12)
Beyond the work of God in Grace Point's history, what did Mike say was the "secret sauce" to GPC thriving the past 20 years?
What does it mean to "consecrate ourselves" before moving into the future? And why is it so important? (read Joshua 3:1-5)
Sunday, May 30 Genesis 21-22
Mike talked about "expanded time" and "compressed time" in the historical narratives (ex. Compare the length of time between Gen 21:1-2 and v.3-4). What is the purpose for slowing down the narrative and compressing time?
How is baptism an expression of our covenant relationship with God?
What does it mean when God tests us? (Gen. 22:1)
What two test results is God looking for when he “tests” us? (answer: Where is our love and loyalty lay? and Where does our trust and obedience stop?)
How radical is the call to follow Jesus? Is it a causal "follow at will" or "when it’s convenient" or is it an "all-out surrender"? Assign the following verse for people to read: John 6:53; Luke 14:26, 33; Luke 9:23.
Why do you think that trust and obedience to God such an important component of following Jesus? How did Abraham demonstrate his trust and obedience and how far was that trust and obedience willing to go?
Read Hebrews 11:17-19. What did Abraham believe 2000 years before Christ sacrifice of his life and resurrection?
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What does Genesis 17 teach us about God?
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Do you find yourself resonating with any character in Abraham's family? Who and why?
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Read Exodus 34:6-7. What character of God have you personally experienced recently in your life?
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Read Ephesians 2:11-15. What do these verses say about those who are in relationship with Jesus?
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How does is understanding our relationship with Jesus as a COVENANT relationship new or different to you?
Sunday, May 16 Genesis 16
What is the spiritual and emotional difference between chapter 15 and 16 with Abram and Sarai?
How can you rationalize such quality of relationship with God 'mood swing'? Have you ever had a chapter of your life when you really felt close to God and then the next chapter your faith fails? (Ask some to share of their time)
Review the paradigm that Mike mentioned for living out God’s promises: PROMISE --> Pathway --> PROVISION. Why is the “pathway” to the provision of God’s promise so long sometimes?
What are the various contributing factors in the pathway to God’s promises? (Conditions met, character developed, circumstances to align)
When Sarai got tired of waiting on God, how did she take matters into her own hands? (Gen 16:1-4)
When you become impatient, how does your impatience manifest itself? (with God, spouse, children or work). How do you 'reign your emotions back in'?
True or false: hurt people hurt people? Why or why not?
Who was hurt by Sarai? Was this abuse? How does God respond to Hagar (v. 7-13)? How does v.13 bring comfort to the person who has been hurt or abused. (God sees you)?
Genesis 15
If you gave yourself a letter grade on your over all prayer life, what grade would you give yourself (A, B, C, D, F)?
In what area(s) are you strongest in prayer and what area(s) are you the weakest?
How many names for God can you think of? What do the varioius names of God tell us about God?
Genesis 15:1, 12 – What emotions was Abram struggling with in chapter 15 and how did God help him address those? What is an emotion that has crippled you in the past? Can you point to prayer as an antidote?
What is the difference between talking TO God and talking WITH God?
Why is Genesis 15:6 considered by some to be the most important verse in the Bible?
What is something God has told you in prayer, that you are still anticipating because it hasn’t become a reality yet?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Genesis 12-13
Share a time in your life, work, relationship, or family, that you had such a misalignment that you had to walk away to be at peace. In what way was Abram partially obedient to God’s clear directive? Compare and contrast Genesis 12:1 with 12:4.
How did the prosperity of Lot, and Abram’s time in Egypt, become a contributing factor to their loss of tranquility? Gen 13:1-5
Can you think of a time when blessings (maybe prosperity) ended up messing up a family and causing dissension?
Quickly list the 3 moves Mike mentioned that Abram modeled in HOW TO WALK AWAY.
How important is it that we strive for peace? (divide up and have different people read: Hebrews 12:14; Romans 12:18; Matthew 5:9)
How is sometimes separation the most peaceful thing to do? Compare and contrast Lot and Abram’s separation with Paul and Barnabas' separation. (Gen 13 v. Acts 15)
How was Lot selfish and where did his selfishness lead him? How was Abram selfless and where did that lead him?
How does Abram stay "God centered" through life’s ups and down? What is the common thing in all these verses (Gen 12:7; 12:8; 13:18).
How does building an altar point to a God centered life? How can we (in our day and age) keep a God centered life?
Introductory for Gary Thomas's seminar, "Cherish, which was held on Sunday evening, April 18, 2021.
Genesis 11:27-12:9
What does “blessing” mean?
Read Gen 12:1-3 and then read Psalm 103:1-5 and list out the qualities of a blessed life.
What does it mean when Mike said the life principle: "when I chose to live outside of God’s will, I chose to live outside of God’s blessing?"
What kind of past did Abram need to break from (Genesis 12:1)? Why was it important to break ties from his family of origin? Can you think of things from your family of origin that keep you from living the full blessed life?
NOTE: This is a good time to point people to our up-coming Seminars with Gary Thomas. You might consider attending as a group. You can sign up at www.gracepointchurch.net/garythomas •Saturday night (April 17): "When to Walk Away" would be for all those who need to break from something or someone in their past. •Sunday, April 18: Sunday morning and evening: we will focus on adding 1 word to our marriage. If we add this one word, what kind of impact would it have on our marriage? The Word is CHERISH.
How is Abram called to live a life of faith? (Gen 12:1; Hebrews 11:8)? How have you been challenged to walk by faith in your walk with Jesus?
What is the mission we are called to as blessed people? (Answer: we are blessed to be a blessing). What does being a person who brings blessings to others look like?
How far is the blessing suppose to go? (Gen 18:18; 22:18; 28:14; Psalm 22:27; 86:9; Matthew 24:14; 28:19; Revelation 7:9-10)
What does blessing sharing or telling people about the blessing of following Jesus look like for you?
April 3 and 4, 2021 John 15:12-16
What simple definitions can you put on the following statements: •Jesus is Savior •Jesus is Lord •Jesus is Friend
Each person in the group needs to assess how well they know Jesus in the three ways (listed above).
What does a friendship with Jesus look like? Think practically and personally.
Read John 15:12-16. Make a list of the following from the various members of your group:
What does this passage teach me about God?
What does it teach me about myself?
What does it mean in my relationship with God to say: "I get more than I deserve?"
True or False: Being a friend of Jesus clarifies our identity? Why or why not?
How does it make you feel to know that God knows all your faults and yet He chose us anyway?
If friendship with Jesus has Him giving us more than we deserve, a new identity, and value for life, what does my relationship with Jesus give Him?
This week’s message is a little different! We are surveying from Genesis to the Gospels, the story line of the sacrificial lamb from the beginning of the fall to the entrance of Christ and to His death on the cross. Read each section of Scripture and ask two questions about each text. I will give you the focal verses, please read the verses before and after the ones listed below to help you understand the context.
The 2 questions are… What does this text teach me about God? What does this text teach me about myself?
Genesis 3:21
Genesis 22:1-13
Exodus 12:3-13
Isaiah 53:4-6
John 1:28-29
Colossians 1:20
"Making a Name for Yourself" Genesis 10:1 - 11:1-9
In Genesis 1-11, we see a crescendo of humanity's proclivity to sin resulting in 3 crisis – the fall in the garden, in the flood, and in the failure of the tower of Babel. In the end, why is sin really that big of a deal? Why does God continue to initiate and pursue his creation?
All of Scripture is the revelation of God. If someone were to ask you, “How do we see God in Genesis 1-11,” how would you answer them? How does God reveal himself to us in this first section of Genesis?
Genesis 10 is not just a normal genealogy that lists decedents in order. Instead it’s more like an ancient world map. Skim each section. (10:1-5, 10:6-14, 10:15-20, 10:21-32) Do you see any names or places that you are familiar to you from other Bible stories you know?
Genesis 1-11 unpacks the history of creation. We see Who created the world. We see the order of creation. We see why God made man and woman.
We see the origin of sin. In the scope of world history, what does Gen 11:1-9 tell us about the world?
What mandate (or command) did God give to Adam and Eve? (Gen 1:28) What mandate (or command) did God give to Noah’s family? (Gen 9:1, 9:7) In what ways do we see Noah’s decedents in Gen 11:1-9 unified to disobey God?
Ambition, approval, significance, the desire to be seen or known, making a name for ourselves - all humanity desires these things. Are these things wrong or are they okay? Can they become wrong?
What relevance does the ancient story of the Tower of Babel have for the church today? Does it have any relevance of God’s mandate given to the church to make disciples in all nations? (Luke 24:45-48)
Is there any similarity to the people’s response in Gen 11:1-9 to settling and building a name for themselves to our response today to God’s mandate to go into all the world?
What does it mean when we say that God’s mission is to make his name known to all the nations? How do we play a part in that as a church? How do you (or can you) practically play a part in that?
God created the world and it had one language. Does a multiplicity of languages and a diversity of people and ethnicities bring glory to God? Read Acts 2:1-11, Revelation 5:7-10.
Genesis 6:5-14
How did our world get to the way it is today? (all the pain, brokenness and sorrow) How does Paul describe the world in which we live? (see Romans 8:22)
Mike keeps using the phrase: “Vandalism of shalom”, what does that mean? Where do we see in Genesis 3-6 a loss of shalom?
How did God show grace to Adam and Eve after they sinned? (see Gen 3:8-9) How does God show grace to Cain even after Cain murdered Abel? (Gen 4:15)
When has God been gracious to you? Why is grace “unfair”? Is God unfair when he gives grace to the guilty?
When we consider how God felt about the broken sin ridden world of Genesis 6:5-7, how do we still see God’s grace at work? (Gen 6:8)
Noah was righteous and blameless (Gen 6:9). Why are these 2 qualities so critical when considering a person’s character?
What proof do we see in Noah that he was a person of faith?
Faith includes COURAGE and GRIT, true or false. Why or why not?
Genesis 4:1-24
Of your parents, who do you most resemble ? Physically, emotionally and/or spiritually?
What does it mean to worship? In the most basic meaning of the word? How was worship evidenced in the beginning of time (read 4:2-4)
Did God have a response to their offerings? If so, what was it? What does it mean for God to regard one offering (Abel’s) and not regard another (Cain’s)? How should God’s response to offerings inform our offering today?
What makes Abel’s offering so acceptable? How does the way in which Abel gave in worship inform how and what we should give in worship? What does a “first and best” mindset look like today?
Cain’s was a "me-first" mindset. Compare and contrast the "me-first" with a "God gets the first and best" mindset.
Cain entered into a cycle of sin (or vandalism of shalom) that led to him going deeper into sin. What was the progression (gave an un-regarded offering, which led to envy, and then led to murder)? How does unconfessed and unrepented sin cause us to spiral deeper into sin?
How did Cain's open unrepented sin effect his emotions?
In what ways does sin “compound” in Cain’s life? In what ways has unconfessed sin compounded you in the past and it has cost you dearly in the present?
Truth and Consequences Series, "Origins, Message 7 Genesis 3:7-24
Re-read and review Genesis 3:1-7
Take a moment and first review the last 2 messages. One message on the crafty deceiver Satan (February 7), last week’s message on the vulnerable prey in Eve and Adam. How did they succumb to the crafty deceptive Satan?
Mike said Gen 3:1-7 is a microsome of a lot of people’s lives. How is that so? (ANSWER: a. there is no mention of God consciousness. B. people were living according to their passions and not their God given principles. C. they were negotiating with the devil)
How does God show up in Genesis 3:8? How is God’s posture different than Adam and Eve? (3:6-11)
What was the truthful impact of sin entering humanities story? (compare and contrast 2:25 with 3:7 to see the human to human impact vs. human to divine impact is see in 3:22-24)
What does it mean that “sin is when we meet legitimate needs with illegitimate means.” How is Eve’s hunger for food an example of a legitimate need? What was illegitimate about her means? Think of some other examples of how we today do the same thing.
List the 5 consequences to sin in our life that is first seen in the life of Adam and Eve (answer: fear v.10; shame v 8 and 10; Blame v 10; Guilt (v14-19) death (v.21))
How does sin kill us spiritually? (Isaiah 59:2; Romans 6:23)
How does Satan’s curse (v14-15) point to Jesus?
Genesis 3:1-7
What was Mike talking about when he talking about dancing with the devil? How is that a dance with death?
For Eve to be considered a ‘vulnerable prey’ - what does that mean?
How did Eve negotiate with Satan and why is that a dangerous posture to have with the devil? (v.1-3)
When have you tried to negotiate away one of God’s truth’s only to find you in a pain of regret?
Explain the difference in living by principle v. by passion.
What are the primary passions that Satan has been tempting since the beginning of time? Compare and contrast Genesis 3:6 with 1 John 2:16.
Share some practical ways you have learned to resist temptations.
How was Adam showing complicity or passivity when Eve was being tempted? What is a better way to walk with someone who is struggling with temptation?
Genesis 3:1-7
Are we born innocent and perfect or are we born with a sinful nature? (Psalm 51:5, Jeremiah 17:9)
What facts do you know (or did you learn) about the Serpent in Genesis 3:1?
Read Romans 5:12. How does the fall (or failure) of Adam and Eve impact us still today?
Read Jeremiah 17:9 and Genesis 3:1. How have our hearts been influenced by the character and conduct of Satan?
Mike said: Deception is a LIE posing as TRUTH. Do you agree or disagree? If you disagree, how would you define “deception”?
List the 3 deceptive maneuvers of Satan’s scheming.
Read Genesis 3:6. Break down the progression of Adam and Eve’s fall.
How did sin impact their relationship in verse 7? (compare and contrast 2:25 and 3:7)
Genesis 2:18-25; 5:1-2
What are the two timeless truths of marriage that Mike listed?
Why is singleness considered good and even a gift for some? (Matthew 19:10-12; 1 Corinthians 7:1-2)
How is it that God’s counsel from the Bible is so valuable and reliable to us when crafting our lives and marriage? (Psalm 33:11; Deut 30:11-20)
The number of options on blueprints for marriage are too numerous to count. Why should we consider (or just limit ourselves to) God’s blueprint, when there are so many other varieties out there?
What does it mean to have a “complementary and contrasting” relationship in marriage and why is that a part of God’s plan? (Gen 1:18)
Eve is considered Adam’s “helper”. Why do we know this isn’t meant to be a demeaning term? (Psalm 79:9 because God is called our helping in salvation, therefore we all must realize we can’t do life alone. We need “help.")
Is marriage designed to be a two-way agreement or a three-way covenant? What is the difference between a contract and a covenant?
What are the three sequential steps to creating a healthy bond in marriage, based on Genesis 2:22-24?
Gen 2:25 points to a level of transparent intimacy that is more than just physical. First, personally evaluate in your own mind and give your marriage a score (if you are married) of 1-10 with 10 being supreme transparent intimacy and 1 be low transparent intimacy (you don’t have to necessarily share your with the group). Share one personal truth from your own life as to what makes you want to be or willing to be transparent and vulnerable with your spouse or significant other.
Genesis 2:1-3; 15-16
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What was Mike saying when he said: "For too many of us work dictates our life. Life should dictate our work."
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In broad strokes, how does God model for us a good work-life balance?
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Does God see QUALITY and QUANTITY as enemies? Have different people read these verses and find the quality and quantity factor: Gen 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31)
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After reading Gen 1:26, 28, and 2:15, what role do we play in caring for this world and environment in which we we live?
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What is the first thing God makes sacred (Gen 2:1)? What does it mean to 'make a day sacred' in an already perfect and holy world.
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How does sabbath living bring balance to our relationship with God and our relationship with others?
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In what way has Jesus enabled us to sabbath by ENTERING vs. taking sabbath (Matt 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:9-11)
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When I embrace my limits, I am enabling myself to sabbath. How?
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Weekly practicing sabbath is a taste of what _________?
Genesis 1:26-28; 5:1-3
When Mike talked about “we have an identity crisis,” what was the crisis to which he is referring? Do you also see it?
What is the danger of anchoring our identity to the wrong marker in our life?
What are the five divine markers that should make up our identity?
How does the diversity of the two genders (male and female) help us see the alignment around our identity with the image of God (Gen 1:26-27)?
If we were made in the image AND likeness of God, how are these two different? (ANSWER: we will always carry the IMAGE of God though marred by humanity, but we lose the LIKENESS of God at our sinful fall. We will be talk more about this in Gen 3)
How is Jesus aiding and calling us back to God’s likeness: (John 1:12, 1 Peter 1:16, Romans 12:1-2)
How does God "breathing into humanity" make humanity different than all other of God’s created order? (Ecc 3:11; Acts 17:26-27)
Why is it important that we are stewards of God's creation and environment? (Gen 1:26, 28)?
Genesis 1:28 says God blessed humanity, which means he gives humanity the promise of the “fullness” of life. What do you think the "fullness of life" is?
HOW BIG IS YOUR GOD? Genesis 1:1-3
What relational connection does Mike emphasize Genesis 1-2 and Revelation 21-22 have? (God’s perfect worlds)
Why do some say that Gen 1:1-2 are the most important verses in Genesis, maybe the entire old testament?
Can Science and the Scriptures be studied at the same time? Which (science or Scripture) should have the ultimate authority when there is apparent contradictions?
What does it mean when we say God is transcendent? How does a transcendent God give us confidence in our faith and life today?
Compare and contrast the Hebrew word to CREATE (BARA) vs. FASHION (YASAR). Are we able to create? Or do we simply fashion the macules that God created?
What kind of earth was the earth in the beginning? v. 2 (formless, void, darkness)
What is a possible interpretation of the gap period between v. 1 and 2 and the concept of the darkness of sin entering into God’s creation.
Despite the darkness and lifeless creation, and possible sin in the angelic, did God ever surrender and take his presence from the dark world? Even when sin enters does God exit (read v.2 again and noticed God is hovering still even in the darkness and then read Psalm 139:7-12)
Isaiah 9:6-7
Review the 'value add' that Jesus is to our life when we see him as our WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, MIGHTY GOD?
What is the difference between the transcendence of God and the immanence of God? How is God both near and far? Approachable and beyond approach? God is with us and God is beyond us.
Reflect on a time when Jesus has shown you to be your caring and compassionate, or clear and directional, Father.
What does it mean to have an ‘everlasting’ Father?
How is having and “everlasting Father” show our God is without limits? (Eph 3:20)
How does the translation of the Bible point to a God who wants to have a relationship with us? (Acts 2:6; Psalm 119:105)
Discuss what you might do around Christmas Eve as a group. Could some of your group attend the Christmas gathering as a group? In a recent GPC church wide survey, 60% of our people are changing their holiday plans due to COVID. Try to make sure no one in your group is left alone at Christmas (unless it’s by their own choosing).
Isaiah 9:6-7
Who was your favorite superhero growing up (or maybe now)? Why?
How does Jesus encourage us to respond when the 'world's gloom' or trials overwhelm us? (John 16:33)
How does light dispel the gloom (or darkness) in us? Share a time when Jesus brought light to a gloomy period. (John 8:12)
Why do some people have a hard time believing Jesus is God? Share how you came to faith in Jesus as God.
See below a list of prophecies of Jesus (Messianic prophecies) and have the group read through (some of) them. Notice both the prophecy and the fulfillment of the prophecy.
Jesus isn’t 'just' God, he is MIGHTY God. Share a time when you sensed Jesus mighty in your life.
What did Mike’s life principle mean: Many people have a mini god. A few people have one MIGHTY GOD.
What are the repercussions of having a small view of God?
Why don’t you - as a group - discuss attending the January 10th Sunday evening “How Big Is Your Universe” event? Text UNIVERSE to 97000
Isaiah 9:1-7
Beyond some direct impact of the COVID virus attacking the body, what other residual impacts have you seen happen in this pandemic season? (eg. loneliness, depression, anxiety, etc)
How do you help people through the residual impacts? Or how are you coping with the residual impacts you are experiencing?
When considering Jesus to be our WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, which emotional response do you think or feel?
•Wish I could set an appointment with Him. •I got this. Only weak people use counselors. •All counselors are crazy. •He has brought me comfort and direction anytime I have met with him.
Read John 8:12 – Share a time in your life when listening to godly counsel shed much needed light on a situation or helped you in a decision.
How does Christmas - tied with the fact that Jesus sent the Holy Spirit counsel us - point to the fact that Jesus is WITH US and FOR US (Matthew 1:23; John 14:16, 26)
What synonyms can be used to describe “wonderful” in the Wonderful Counselor title that Jesus carried?
What decision are you facing right now that you need the guidance of a wonderful counselor? (Read and pray Psalm 23 over your group)
Grace Point Church is joining in prayer for the Little Horse people group in East Asia. In this episode, Caleb Gabriele interviews a missionary to the area.
Proverbs 16:18-20
Why do you think having a heart of thanksgiving vs. having a heart of pride are so counter to each other? Describe a time in your life when you had a heart of thanksgiving. Describe a time the you had a heart of pride.
Mike said in a Life PRINCIPLE: Pride is innate; gratitude is a choice. Do you believe this? How have you seen it lived out in your own life experience?
How dangerous is pride? Divide up the verses and let people read them and list out the impact of pride. (Proverbs 16: 5, 18-19; 15: 25; 26:12; 1 Peter 5:5; James 4:6)
Why do we have a hard time detecting our own pride?
What are the three attitudes of prideful people that Mike spoke of? (Anti-authority; I win; I got this)
What is “delegated authority?” What are some examples of "delegated authority?"
What happened to King Uzziah? How did pride end up being his downfall? (2 Chron 26:15-16)
How does “success” feed our pride? What is the danger it can have to our spiritual life? (Proverbs 30:8-9)
How is humility the antidote to pride? What is the advantage of humility over pride? (Proverbs 18:12; 3:34; 29:23; 22:4 and 1 Peter 5:6)
Proverbs 16:1-4
If someone were to ask you "what is the meaning of life?" - Could you answer them in a clear and compelling statement in under 30 seconds?
Read Proverbs 16:1-4 – What are the key words in this text that point to the domains of our life? What is a common word that is true in every verse (LORD)?
How should “the LORD” be defining and influencing our purpose in life?
EXISTENCE: Do you ever struggle with why you are alive? (Jeremiah 20:18) How do you reconcile your answer with Scripture (Prov 16:4, Eph 4:10)
SIGNIFICANCE: Has God ever given you a word or verse that has given you a sense of direction in your purpose in life? (Isaiah 49:4-5
What does it mean to have significance behind your life?
INTENTION: How does a relationship with God help steer our paths forward in life? (Col 1:16; Prov 4:18)
Prov 12:17-19
From your own experience, what was the most life-giving conversation you have ever experienced?
Be as specific as you want, but what was an example of a debilitating conversation you have experienced? (Prov 18:2)
Why is the heart the first line of defense for guarding the speech? (Prov 4:23-24; Matt 12:34)
Can you recall all the "methods of mass destruction" our speech can generate? (lies, arguments, slander, gossip)
How much does God hold us accountable for our mass destruction? (Matt 12:36-37)
How can we be better at being life-givers with our speech?
What is required to WHOLLY LISTEN to someone?
Bonus: if anyone wishes to study all the passages in Proverbs that speak to our speech, you can forward them this list… Proverbs 6:16–19, 24; 7:21; 8:6–9, 13; 10:6, 11, 13–14, 18–21, 30, 32; 11:9, 11–13; 12:6, 13–14, 17–19, 22–23; 13:2–3, 5; 14:3, 5, 25; 15:1–2, 4, 7, 23; 16:13, 23–24; 17:4, 7, 20, 28; 18:4, 6–8, 13, 17, 20–21; 19:5, 9; 20:15, 19–20; 21:23, 28; 22:10; 25:9–11, 18, 20, 23, 25; 26:4–7, 9, 17, 20–26, 28; 27:1–2, 5, 14–16; 29:5, 8–9, 11, 15, 19; 30:10–11, 17, 32; 31:8
Take an extended time in this week's meeting to pray for our nation, our leaders and the election. Read 1 Tim 2:1-2. Start your time with prayer or it may be good to end your discussion with a prayer time. Follow the prompting of God’s Spirit in your life.
Message Title: Fools, Wise and Otherwise
What are the 3 primary behaviors that Proverbs speaks of? (wise, foolish, and Evil)
What are the traits of the behavior of a wise person? (Prov 1:5)
How do you correct a wise person? (Prov 9:6; 15:31-32)
What are the traits of foolish behavior? (Prov 15:5)
Why can’t you correct a foolish behaving person with “words?” How do you correct a fool?
What are the traits of the Evil? (Prov 1:24-29)
How do you correct or deal with evil?
What do you do to people in the church who are conspiring evil and are divisive? (Titus 3:10-11)
How do you steer your life away from evil? (Prov 3:7)
Key Text: Proverbs 27:17
What does it mean to be free? How did Nathan define freedom? (Freedom is not the ability to do what you want; it is the capability to be who you were created to be.)
To be free, we must love our neighbor. (Galatians 5:13-15 and Mark 12:30-31). How can we as a group love our neighbors?
We are free to fill our calendars with whatever we want, but oftentimes we fill it with things that really don’t matter. To be who we were created to be, we need a community of believers. Do you find it difficult to make consistent time of biblical community a priority? Why or why not?
We were created for community. When chaos happens, or care and/or cultivation is needed, community comes through! Describe a time when your community has come alongside you in chaos, to care for you, or to cultivate (or sharpen) you.
Nathan used the illustration of a domino - linear and geometric progression. Faith isn’t linear; it’s geometric! The goal is to set off a chain reaction of disciple multiplication. (Note to leaders: Is there someone in your group who you need to lean into and challenge to lead a new group [and set off a chain reaction of multiplication]? Is God challenging anyone in your group to do this? If you’re bold, ask it!)
The domino illustration is also about discipleship. Think of the “someone who invested in you” (who discipled or is discipling you) and has challenged you to grow in your walk with the Lord. Take a few moments this week and write them a card to say “thank you” for investing in you.
At Grace Point, people can know God, love people, and live sent within a group. What does our group need to do to see all three of these manifested?
Proverbs 5:1-2, 21
Do you agree or disagree with the statement that your marriage is the most important relationship on earth? Is it more important than your parenting relationships? What is a fatal attraction in 1 word (adultery)? What all does adultery cover? What are the primary ways a person is seduced (Proverbs 2:16; 6:24-25; 7:21-22)? How does adultery damage a marriage (Proverbs 5:11, 22; 6:26, 32; 7:21,23, 27)? Divide these verses among the group and read each out loud, while long listing the answers of the impact of adultery. Do you remember the 3 wise and practical ways that Mike mentioned to avoid adultery (Proverbs 5:1, 8; 1 Cor 6:18; 2 Tim 2:22; 5:18-19)? How does God fit into our “most important” relationship?
Proverbs 3:1-10
What is the best advice you received from your parents growing up? What bit of wisdom did your parents “try” give you that you ignored and wish you hadn’t?
Read and compare the two different tones of Proverbs 1:8, 3:1 and 3:11. What do you hear in the voice of the father and mother to the son?
When Solomon tells people to obey, what are they to obey with (3:2)? What is the difference between heart obedience v. head obedience?
Why do you think steadfastness and faithfulness are such "respect building" qualities? (v.3-4)
God wants us to trust Him… (v.5-6) How is each practically lived out?
Trust in the Lord … With all your heart… Do not lean on your own understanding… Acknowledge Him in all your ways…
Why is arrogance such a hard attitude to detect in ourselves?
How will being “wise in our own eyes” get in the way of our “trusting in the Lord?”
What does God say about our wealth? (Haggai 2:8)
Why is honoring the Lord with all our wealth a pattern of God?
Why does money say more about what we love in life than anything else (Matthew 6:21)?
No one could have prepared us or predicted that 2020 would be the year that it has been. We need discernment, understanding, insight, justice, equity, prudence— we need wisdom (Proverbs 1:2-4). Before the next crisis comes, before the virus is under control, and before the 2020 election —before 2021 comes knocking— we need to seek God for wisdom. Join us as we survey Proverbs and seek the wisdom of God.
Proverbs 1:1-7
What is the loudest noise in your life right now (political, health, financial, etc)? What the source of the loudest noise (friends, family, social media, etc)?
How do you practically control the volume of noise in your life?
What is something you could benefit from “tuning out” or at least “turning down” for the next 40 days? How would you better allocate the time, the habit, the energy, the resources, to TUNE IN to the Wisdom of God might?
What does wisdom mean to you? What is a simple memorable definition for you? What value can you place on wisdom (Prov 2:4-6; 16:16)?
Look at the 4 Jewels that wisdom brings in v. 2-4. These words or phrases help us understand the riches of wisdom. Try to recall the value each of these brings to our life.
How does Jesus fit into the conversation on wisdom? (1 Cor. 1:24,30; Col. 2:3)
Read Prov 1:7. What is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge? (fear of the Lord). How do you see the fear of the Lord opening up our life to greater divine wisdom?
How can one know they have a healthy “fear of the Lord”? Psalm 25:12, 14. How do you nurture your friendship with God and maintain a fear of the Lord?
Central Text: Matthew 28:19-20
Review what it means to KNOW GOD and LOVE PEOPLE from the past messages.
What makes these the most important commandments and why are they inseparable (Mark 12:28-37)
Mike said the CHURCH isn’t a destination you ARRIVE AT, but a MOVEMENT you are SENT FROM. What does this statement mean? Assign different people in your group to read the following passages for clarity (John 20:21; Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47-49; Matthew 28:16-28)
What does it mean to be a disciple who makes disciples?
Read Matthew 28:19-20. What is the primary verb in the passage? How do the other "calls to action" modify or bring clarity to the main verb, based on what Mike shared in his message.
What does "going to the nations" mean? How does our stewardship of the truth of the gospel compare to the world distribution and accessibility to the gospel?
Why is baptism such an important statement in a person’s faith and life?
What does it mean to apprentice the way Jesus did?
Central Text: Mark 12:28-34
Review what you can remember from the Sept 13th message as to what it means to KNOW GOD (the first commandment).
How does the 1st command of knowing God through a love relationship feed into loving people?
Mike said loving people involved getting into people's messy lives. How did Jesus model entering into our messy lives by loving us (Roman 5:8)?
Can you share a time when you were either in a messy situation or you helped someone in a messy situation that was a part of your church family? Was it messy? Do you have any regrets for getting involved or having someone step into your life to correct from a place of love?
Read Mark 12:3. What is the standard for quality in how much or to what degree you are called to love other (answer: the same measure that you love yourself) Spend some time chewing on that. What does that mean? How does that affect how I view the ministry I am a part of?
Mike repeatedly emphasized “LOVE DOES.” Reread the verses and consider how “love does” (James 2:16; 1 Corinthians 13:4; 1 John 4:7-10).
What does the phrase mean to you: "Every member is a minister and every ministry is important."
Mark 12:28-37
Mike said there were 3 core questions most everyone will ask in life: Who are my parents? Why am I here? What will happen to me when I die? Do you think these questions get to the core of life questions that most people will wrestle with in life?
Review with your group (either from the message or just from your own reading), how Jesus got pulled into a conversation about what was most important. How should Jesus’ clarifying what is most important clarity for us what should be most important for us?
Mike drew a Vertical line on a white board in his message what did the vertical line refer to?
Mike described us all as either living in a broken relationship or a restored relationship with God moving back to his perfect design through Jesus. You might ask everyone to classify which circle they are living in - God’s design or brokenness (Group Leader… be ready - some in the group may be in brokenness and afraid to admit it. Feel free to share the gospel and invite anyone in the group to move into a relationship with Jesus. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if people in your group cross the line and entered into a relationship with Jesus during group meeting?)
Our love relationship is real and personal, but also expressed. Jesus calls us for a total-body and life-expression of our worship of him (Read Mark 12:30).
How can you love God in the 4 domains of our life: heart, soul, mind and strength? Be as practical as you can.
What is your next step of obedience?
Text: Matthew 16:13-20
Mike talked about “relational disintegration,” what is it? Have you experienced any relational disintegration in this season? How do you rebuild the relationships that have drifted a part due to COVID isolation? When Mike said the best way to bless a community is to start a church, what value can a healthy church bring to a community? How has Grace Point showed value to our community over the past 6 months (Group leaders let your people brainstorm, but here are some of the ways…) Offering onsite and virtual counseling for families in crisis Blessing bags for truck drivers Meals for Mercy health care workers, Meals for local nursery home workers Sending a team to work in the recovery of Hurricane Laura Trying to bring peace to the racial tension Increased our online quality and reach through social media, launching a YouTube channel, to better communicate to people simply surfing the web for faith, hope and love. Continuing our financial commitments to our global workers so they wouldn’t feel cut off from those who love and support them. An appreciation meal was served to the Bentonville Police Department.
Reread Matthew 16:15-16, how does Peter’s Theology shape his worship (doxology)? What does it mean that “theology precedes doxology?” How does our worship show or point to KNOWING GOD. Read Colossians 3:16 – break out all the qualities of a worship experienced contained in this verse. Matthew 16:17-18 when Jesus talked about building his church, what is the original meaning of the concept church and how does that apply to us being the church and LOVING PEOPLE What does the phrase “the gates of hell will not prevail” mean (v.18)? How does Satan want to destroy, disarm, detour and distract Jesus’ church? Matthew 16:18-19 How does the Church LIVING SENT expand God’s Kingdom.
This week, we will hear from Lori McDaniel as she continues our LOVE BETTER series. Below is the discussion guide based on her message. There is a ton of information/questions as you dialogue in your group. Feel free to use what you wish to guide your discussion.
Thank you for all you do! Please know that we are praying for you as you lead your group!
TEXT - Romans 15
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The message focused on “How can we love those distanced from us - people on another continent that speak a different language, eat different food, drive on a different side of the road?” Is it even our responsibility as believers to love people so far away? How do we love those who are believers? How can we love those who are of a different religion and don’t know Christ?
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Let’s look at the church in Rome that Paul wrote to. They were made up of Jews following Christ and Gentiles following Christ. Each group had their own traditions. Read Romans 14:1-9. What kind of differences did they have? How did Paul address their differences and encourage them?
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Why is unity important in a church if they are to advance the kingdom of God not just locally, but also globally? In what ways does disunity threaten to disrupt a church from participating in God’s global mission?
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Paul quotes verses from the Old Testament to support his mission cause of making Christ name known among the Gentiles. (See verses from Psalm and Isaiah quoted in Romans 15: 9, 10, 11, 12, 21) All of Scripture speaks to God’s mission of making His name known in all the earth. His mission has been given to the church. When you consider God’s mission of making His name known, what role do you see yourself playing?
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Read 2 Cor 5:14-15: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
When you read this verse and consider such strong words like “Christ's love compels us” and “we are convinced” and “who no longer live for themselves but for Christ,” what stirs within you regarding your life and how you live it?
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Paul says that he makes it his “ambition to preach Christ where He has not yet been named.” It’s hard to imagine places that have no gospel access. Today, where are these places or areas that have little to no gospel access? Who are these people? Determine one nation to pray for.
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Paul inspired and pleaded with the church in Rome to do two things: 1) help him on his journey to Spain (15:24) and 2) strive with him in prayer (15:30).
How are giving and praying a part of God’s mission of making His name known in all the earth?
According to these verses, what should we pray concerning others hearing about Christ? What was Paul’s prayer in Romans 10:1? What did Paul ask to be prayed in Colossians 4:3? What did Jesus tell his disciples to pray? Matthew 9:38?
Picture this scenario: you have volunteered to be part of an experience with a diverse group of people from several local churches. When you get into the group, you are told that the purpose of the group is to talk about the following topics/themes:
o Racism o Gender discrimination o Classism o Political polarization o Caring for those with special needs o Theological differences o Generational gaps
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What do you sense happen in your body when you find out you’ll be discussing these themes? (Be specific and particular with how each topic relates to how it makes you feel physically.)
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What is it about these topics individually that triggered your body to respond?
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What thoughts or images come into your mind as you reflect on each individual theme? (They may not be something you agree with, but they come up anyway.)
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What are your fears and hopes for yourself, your family, your church, and your community when it comes to each individual theme?
Central Text: Read John 17:20-23
Ask: · Do you think unity is a problem for believers right now? Why or why not? · What are some core character qualities we need to have in order to be unified with other believers? · Read John 13:34-35. How will the world recognize us as Jesus’ disciples? · How does love for one another create unity? · What changes need to be made in your life so that Jesus’ prayer of unity can be true of you?
"LOVE BETTER" Questions
The topic today may bring out a lot of emotion or it may cause others who normally share to shut down. Being sensitive and listening to both are critical as your group shares. Don’t feel like you have to have all the answers as a leader.
Here are some good ground rules to keep in mind:
No bitter talk about anyone or name dropping. It doesn’t need to become a gripe session.
Please share respectfully and guard against telling someone else what they ought to do. Rather, allow the scripture passage to direct and guide.
Be prayerful - open in prayer and close in prayer. When sharing how we've been hurt by others, it can potentially open up negative emotions. Prayer is a part of the healing process. You might even read James 5:16 again together as a group.
Focus less on the offender or the offense and more on how we can respond to our offender. Notice that Jesus wasn’t addressing the OFFENDERS in the passage, but those who have been OFFENDED.
Central Text: Luke 6:27-36
Of the five dimensions of love (easy, family, mutual, sacrificial, and mercy), why is sacrificial and mercy love the hardest? Why do you think Mike said that some people never make it to having sacrificial and mercy love?
What is the difference between mercy and grace?
Notice from the message last week and this week how “mercy” love is promoted as the BETTER LOVE (read Luke 10:36-37 and Luke 6:36). Now read Micah 6:8. How important is mercy to the character and expression of our life and love?
When reflecting on the four ways we express mercy stated in Luke 6:27-28 (loving our enemies, doing good to our haters, blessings our cursers, praying for our abusers), which are you the best at? Which are the most challenging for you? Without naming names, going into a rant about someone, or being passive aggressive, can you share with your group how you have lived out one of these charges well and have no regrets? Can you share about a time when you did the opposite and felt bad because you matched their wrong with your wrong?
What is your next step of obedience with your offender?
Central Text: Luke 10:25-37
What are the greatest and 2nd greatest commandments (for review see Luke 10:27)? In your own words, describe what the 1st and 2nd greatest commandments look like, if you were talking to an unreligious person.
How does a good vertical love relationship with God inform or shape a horizonal love relationship with others? (John 13:5; 1 John 4:20)
How would you answer the question of Jesus: Who is my neighbor? (v.29)
Share a time that someone came into your line of sight, your office unannounced, reached you on the phone, etc, and you knew they needed to be loved, heard, and prayed for and you stopped what you were doing to be fully present for them. Likewise, can you think of a time you were so full of your own agenda that you know you passed up an opportunity to be fully present with someone in a time of need? Compare and contrast the emotions inside of you.
Recall a time when you were stretched beyond your comfort zone to love on someone.
Look back at Luke 10:34-35 and 8 movements or ways the Good Samaritan goes out of his way to love.
Who is in your path right now that you can love on? What might it cost you?
As we prepare to relaunch as a church, is there an age group that you're being called to love and disciple on a consistent basis? What might that cost you?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
Message Discussion Guide - 7.26.20
Read James 5:1-3 with your group.
· James begins a new section of his letter in which he harshly condemns "you rich" people. He begins by warning them of misery headed their way. Why do you think James issues such a stern warning? · James describes a group of people who have hoarded their wealth. Is James condemning the very possession of wealth? Look at James 1:9-11. · Do you consider yourself wealthy? Why or why not? · Do you agree that money can be dangerous?
Read James 5:4-6 with your group.
· Now that we’ve read this passage, let’s look at James’ main point. James describes the ways these people have trusted in their wealth and it has led to some serious sin. · Devon said “The reason why money is so dangerous is because it can quickly become the thing we trust most.” Have you ever found yourself putting trust in wealth alone? What happens when that is the case? · What do you think it means that our hearts follow our treasure? · If you are a follower of Jesus, do you think that means we should use our wealthy differently? How so? · If your bank account is the best account, what does it say about you right now? · How does Christ set us free from the worldly way of consumption and hoarding of wealth?
7.19.20 Message Discussion Guide – “Win, Lose, or Peace”
Read James 3:13-18 with your group.
· James defines worldly wisdom using these words/phrases: bitter envy and selfish ambition. We have all sinned at one time or another by harboring one of these. How have you guarded against bitter envy and/or selfish ambition? · James then describes Godly wisdom using these words: pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, merciful, fruitful, impartial, and sincere. Which of these characteristics do you feel comes most natural to you? Which one have you been asking (or need to ask) God to grow in you? · Mike said a roadblock to peace is when noise drowns our wisdom. He said when that happens, it’s time to turn off the noise and turn up the wisdom of God. How do you accomplish making this happen? · Another roadblock to peace that Mike mentioned is when passion triumphs over principle. Most arguments aren’t over right or wrong, but rather MY DESIRE being superior to YOUR DESIRE. When was a time when your passion trumped principle? How do you maintain principle over passion when it comes to your day to day conversations?
Read James 4:1-10 with your group.
· Now that we’ve read this passage, let’s circle back to Mike’s blueprint for “getting back on track.” He lists five ways, based on what James writes in this passage:
- Get out of the driver’s seat – “submit yourselves to God” (verse 7)
- Silence the lies – “resist the devil” (verse 7)
- Nurture your relationship with God – “draw near to God” (verse 8)
- Remove the dirt – “cleanse your hands” (verse 8)
- Realign your heart – “purify your hearts” (verse 8) · When you consider all five points, what are you doing daily to either get back on track or stay on track? · What do you think it means to truly submit to God? · In what way will you think and live differently as a result of today’s message from James?
James 3:1-12
It [your dragon] can accomplish nearly anything—or destroy it! It only takes a spark, remember, to set off a forest fire… [our dragon] can ruin the world, turn harmony to chaos, throw mud on a reputation, send the whole world up in smoke and go up in smoke with it, smoke right from the pit of hell. James 3:5-6 [The Message]
3 WARNINGS for your WORDS
- Your words hold power; your words express weakness v. 1-2
Therefore, let your words be few. Ecc 5:2
- Your words are small; your words are huge v. 3-5
5 ways your SMALL tongue makes a HUGE impact… 1. Too many words Ecc 5:3; Job 13:5 (the Message); Job 16:3; Ecc 5:7
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Gossip Leviticus 19:16
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Lies Revelation 21:8
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Flattery Psalm 12:3
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Grumbling 1/2 spoken 1/2 concealed complaint Exodus 15: 24; 16:2; 17:3; Phil 2:14
LIFE PRINCIPLE: Grumblers don’t solve problems, they multiply problems
- Your words take life; your words give life v. 6-12
Matthew 12:36; Prov 18:21; 15:1; Ephesians 4:29
Discussion Questions 1. Have you or someone you know been adversely affected by cyberbullying? why is it so easy to say something online about someone vs. saying your offense it to the person's face?
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Mike mentioned common pitfalls with our words: speaking too much (too many words), gossip, lies, flattery, and grumbling. Are there any other common ways we misuse our words? How have you seen these damage a relationship?
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Can you think of a time when grumbling made the problem worse than finding a healthy solution?
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What is the best way to stop a person when you hear them grumbling? How can you steer them toward a better way with their words?
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Who has been the most life-giving with their words in your own life? How did their words give you life?
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Can you relate to a time that someone's words wounded you deeply, could be a wound that you are still living with?
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Close with reading: Proverbs 18:21. Take time to write a note of encouragement to 1- 3 people this week, thanking them for something, they said or did that made a positive, life-giving impact in your life.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What is the leading indicator that we have a great nation? (Proverbs 14:34)? What is righteousness? What does God expect from our leaders (Proverbs 16:12) How do we become righteousness as a person and as a nation (1John 1:9) What will keep a nation from being great? (Proverbs 14:34) what is an example of NORMALIZING SIn that we ultimately LEGALIZED and SPIRITUALIZED (saying it must be okay with God) How can we promote UNITY in our divided land at the same time call out the sin and promote righteousness?
How do we eliminate the darkness of racism and discrimination that's prevalent in our world, and even in the church?
We should be ever-learning, and ever-practicing principles of love and engagement as modeled by Jesus.
What happens when church as we know it is turned upside down? This is our chance to put it right-side up in a whole new way.
Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. Are we speaking words of support and encouragement?
It’s more than choosing a good attitude, enduring a hard season and not compromising. God is using all of this because we have a relationship with him. The better us emerges out of a relationship with Christ.
Disruption, Message 3, followed by an interview with Geoff Reddick of the Joshua Center and John Brown University
Today we celebrate Christ's resurrection, by which He brings us from darkness to light.
Lori McDaniel shares a message on the Gospel of Mark, GPC young people read scripture from Mark, and we gather a panel to discuss the effects of the COVID-19 virus.
Message: Heart Check; Panel Discussion on the condition of our hearts as examined by Christ in his parable of the soils.
A panel to address the current coronavirus situation from spiritual, social, business, and family perspectives.
As a called disciple, I am to be with Jesus, go for Jesus, and live victoriously through Jesus.
Confusion may mark some but for others, absolute clarity exists as to who Jesus is. Jesus is the gospel of God.
We must pursue a Fresh Start, it won’t come to us. Fresh starts require courage, patience, and hope.
A reprioritizing of what’s important happens after an honest assessment of our life is the first step towards a Fresh Start.
Prayer is more than a lifeline, prayer is a lifestyle. Prayer takes us deeper. Prayer takes us wider.
When we have a clear, God-sized vision of our purpose in life we are no longer victims to the pull and push of the world around us. Clarity gives God’s calling on our lives focus, and when we have focus life has a purpose and meaning every single day. Enter 2020 with the clarity you need as we journey together.
God will go out of his way to come to us, defy the realm of possibility to be with us, and break the rules of nature to show his love for us.
There are questions we all ask God, just as people have throughout history. Are there any real answers out there?
The Church is not made up of whole people, rather of broken people who find their wholeness in a Christ who was broken for us.
Love is delicate and living. Nurture and protect it from the landmines that will destroy it.
The qualities that attract you to a lover are what you will expect throughout your relationship. Be sure your attraction is based in Godly aspects of love, marriage, and sexuality.
Duck Dynasty’s Al Robertson relates the miraculous story of a shattered, dysfunctional family who were radically changed by Christ.
Impacting your ONE requires belief and conviction as in whom your source of life, one baptism.
We want to love as God loves, see as God sees, and fulfill the mission he has appointed to us.
Are there really coincidences in life, unguided and unaffected by God or man? God is always at work.
Grace Point Church is certainly a “work of God,” and since 2001, we have sought to be an authentic church for those who have given up on the church, but haven’t given up on God.
The purpose of the filling of the Holy Spirit is that we may be complete in Christ and make him evident to all.
God has given us the gift of the Holy Spirit, but we must activate that gift in order to fully realize its value.
Living in the fullness of God’s Spirit opens our lives up to the infinite nature of God’s personhood.
The world needs love, joy, peace, patience...Where does that come from, unless through followers of Jesus - full, consumed, and intoxicated by God's Holy Spirit. Let's be the light this world needs!
What would Jesus's Facebook page look like – his status, his friends, his contact information, his timeline?
As we make space for what matters most, let’s not let the main thing slip from our grasp.
What's God up to in this world? Let's find out why we're here and how he wants to use us.
We will create margin when the pain of living marginless is greater than the pain of creating margin.
If we just seek love, we may never find it, but if we seek God we will find love 100% of the time.
Feeling alone? Inadequate? Lacking peace? Let’s talk about waiting on God, allowing him to work, and finding his peace.
People with margin have learned how to make time count, they don't just count the time.
Is true contentment found it getting all we want or in receiving all the God wants us to have?
The kind of joy found in Christ isn't just for Christmas time, it's available every moment of every day of the year.
Have you ever asked, “Where is God?” You aren’t alone. Sometimes he shows up where he’s least expected.
“You may be a dangerous Christian if...” –four ways we might be in danger of being dangerous.
The light that shines farthest shines brightest at home. We all have circles of influence through which we are called to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
“Live Sent” means “showing and sharing Jesus with everyday people in everyday conversations.” Are you ready?
When you stand before God one day, will you say "look at all my stuff?" Maybe there's a better way.
Detoxing from dangerous relationship is a delicate but necessary part of healthy living.
God has given mankind authority over some things, but let us never forget that God is the ultimate authority over all creation, all powers, and all other authorities.
Hope is the life preserver that will keep us afloat through the storms of suffering in this life to the glory that is to come.
What does a relationship with Jesus Christ give us? Let’s look at some of the gifts we receive because we know Christ.
Because of justification through Christ, we can have peace with God, we are loved by God, and we are forever reconciled to God.
God's righteousness is not hidden or provided only for a few, it's is provided through Jesus Christ and is available to all who will receive.
We’ll never be part of the solution until you acknowledge that we are part of the problem and turn to the only one who can do something about it.
Our world is as it is due to a certain undeniable cause and effect. What is the problem, and what is the solution?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
God doesn’t care about your body. He cares about the Spirit of God that He's put inside of you.
A Christ-follower’s fuel is prayer. Sometimes we need some life-adjustments to maximize the power of prayer.
If you want a life directed by God and driven by the Spirit, there’s only one fuel source that will meet your need: prayer.
Who is Jesus to you? Will you just put him back in the manger box and store him away until next Christmas, or will you allow him to go with you every minute of every day?
Let’s take time to consider Jesus, the refugee. It can cast a whole new light on the millions who are wandering in strange lands in our day.
What would a portrait of your home look like compared to the instruction we find in Scripture?
In the journey of life and faith we encounter many detours and dead ends. But Jesus offers direction for the road ahead.
Who are you, really? Satan will tell you one thing, Jesus another. Let’s talk about how to become God’s “best you.”
How do we move from a weak prayer-life to being fully devoted to communion with God every moment of our day?
Are you living a “normal” life, or are you living strategically as a disciple to take the Gospel to the world?
Learning to be with Jesus before doing for Jesus is the fuel that enables worship-filled disciples.
Many will choose to unfollow Jesus because his ask in following is too great a price for them to be willing to pay
Jesus spells out exactly the scope and sequence of what it means to be a follower of Christ.
How do you stand concerning the Will of God, the Work of God, the Word of God, and the Worth of God?
It is our prayer that, as at our starting point, Grace Point Church will be a work of God that will be all that he desires us to be in carrying out our mission and purpose.
Jesus shows up when things seem hopeless because He cares, He understands the struggles we are facing.
Life gets cluttered with stuff, want, and more stuff, moving us from the joy found in minimalist living.
Grace Point's vision and purpose remain the same after 16 years as a church. Mike talks about our focus for the coming years.
Lone survivors aren’t what makes us dance, but navigating life in meaningful relationships enables everyone to dance.
Your attitude is your outlook on life. It is the filter through which you see others and your circumstances. You may be your own worst enemy to experiencing joy filled life.
A unity of mind and self-less living reduces self-centeredness and contention in relationships.
Is it possible to have joy in any circumstance, even death itself? Let's see what the apostle Paul has to say on the subject.
The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ didn't just change a few people who knew him on earth, it changed everything.
Jesus makes right the broken relationship between God and man. He brings peace and reconciliation between God and man and mankind as a whole.
Jesus is more than a spiritual guru, inspirational teacher, example to follow, or a great physician. He is the focus of all our faith and life.
Christ left us the ministry of reconciliation so that we could be a part of his plan for healing the messy existence we brought upon ourselves through sin.
In the muddled confusion of our day as to who Jesus is, let’s revisit and reclaim the real Jesus, the man and his mission.
2017 ONE Weekend with Worship led by Rob Jones, Worship Pastor and Singer Songwriter from North Carolina; and Speaker Jonathan Hyde, Associate/Community Pastor for First Christian Church of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
We all want an extraordinary marriage. What are the Keys to moving beyond the ordinary?
Seeing beyond ourselves and giving beyond ourselves can be the greatest gift we can give ourselves.
Waiting on God has a life-giving and sustaining quality. Let's remove the hurried, frenetic pace that keeps us from waiting on Him and giving Him room in our lives.
We have a polarized culture these days - politically, socially, etc. Let us consider how we can be the agents that bring broken and strained relationships together.
Life is full of stress and woes too great for our lives to sustain. Communing with God in prayer is one of the greatest ways to find reprieve and help for the journey.
Is God calling you to stay less and go more? Here's help as you seek and understand His call.
In the vast majority of American homes we would find multiple copies of the world's greatest treasure: the Word of God - yet we seem to value it less today than at any point in history.
It's time to reclaim the next generation and be intentional about instilling in them the principles and practices of devoted Christ-followers.
One of our chief responsibilities as followers of Christ is to pass on our faith to the next generation.
What would you do and how far would you go to show others the kind of love that Jesus offers?
Trusting the plan and way of God is critical to moving and adjusting to the voice of God.
Hearing God speak ad knowing His will goes beyond feelings and emotions. We can hear directly and know specifically what He has designed for your life.
The acid test of a child of God is the ability to hear God's voice and the validation of their willingness to follow His voice.
How do we make a place for God in our lives? We need a time and place for silence, solitude, and scripture.
Hearing the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit is not only possible, it is expected when we focus our hearts on Him. How do we know it's Him speaking?
We all hear voices. The challenge is learning to filter out the unwanted influences so we can hear and follow The Voice of God.
Christ didn't establish his church so we could sit and vegetate. He built it for multiplication. Are we ready to multiply Christ's followers?
As Christ's Church, the word "community" takes on a far greater meaning as we live out true fellowship with one another.
Having a clear view of who God is and who we are is essential to carrying out our mission and living out our worship.
What kind of church would this church be if every member were just like me? Do our creeds inspire our deeds?
There is only one thing on earth that is eternal. Let's focus on valuing souls above all that is temporal.
What does it mean to "run the race" and "win the prize?" Do we truly value what God values?
How would you describe your relationship with Christ? In a time such as this, is there room for a graded level of identification?
One of the biggest challenges we face as followers of Christ is to be His ambassadors, showing that God's love is truly the only remedy for a very broken world.
Living for God's glory is an act of our will and requires intimate and constant communication and fellowship with the Father.
The most important task parents must engage is passing their faith to the next generation.
There are "love languages" we all have in common, and should all strive to give and graciously receive.
The Gospel is intended to bring reconciliation between God and man, and can also restore relationships between man and man.
Jesus didn't come to be put on a shelf. He wants to live actively and effectively through us.
May it be said of us, "we always spoke an encouraging word." Meaningful communication is an essential part of daily life and love.
We were created in community for community. What is the value of real community in a virtual world?
Is staying in love as easy as falling in love? Absolutely not! What IS love, and how do we make it last?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
You are standing on the precipice of your future. God has called – will you take the "leap?"
Pain creates a space for God to show up and do His most incredible and intimate work in us.
Do we move past our pain, or carry it with us? If your pain management doesn't include Jesus, you need to make a major course correction.
In our struggles, suffering, and shattered dreams, it's easy to blame God. How can we make sense of life when we are in despair and disappointment.
Does pain really bring gain? We're looking at how trials, stress, pain, and tragedy can affect our present life and our eternity.
Of all the things that really matter, Jesus is the Pinnacle. If you don't know Him, you are not ready for Christmas.
Blu and Darbi Tidwell share about New Day Orphanage in Zambia and their work in providing homes for "the least of these."
We were made to be like our Maker. Following Jesus is a process that is intended to help us be more like Him.
It really matters that we find a caring community in which to live, worship, learn, and minister to others.
Most believers want to share their faith, but very few feel they are "gifted" in evangelism. We need to move toward a more "active" yes.
In a season that amplifies an emphasis on self and personal desires, we need to stop and think about what really matters.
There are many perils on the path to restoration, but it takes "retreat" from our "wicked ways" to reach the goal.
Offending and breaking trust with someone you love without confessing can destroy a relationship. True confession, when handled with emotional and spiritual maturity can be a beautiful picture of grace, mercy and ultimately redemption. Confession should refresh a relationship.
Every trial can lead to training, from which can emerge a powerful testimony of God's love and grace.
The act of baptism declares to the world that we belong to Christ and his body, the church.
When scripture refers to "the table," it carries deep meaning that can affect every aspect of life.
Even Kings need a shepherd, according to David, author of the most quoted Psalm of all 150.
It is our nature to have a mind set on the flesh, but we must nurture a mind set on the Spirit.
It is our prayer that, as at our starting point, Grace Point Church will be a work of God that will be all that he desires us to be in carrying out our mission and purpose.
The love we experience and share at home is the beginning point of loving our neighbors.
Businesses measure success by what they bring in. Churches measure success by who they send out. Grace Point Church exists to send out our members to love God and our community deep and wide.
Being "authentic" as a Christ-follower is the same as being "Christ-like," and it is goal one for all believers.
There are not many things more important to life than breathing, and the same can be said about your spiritual life. Breathing in the things of God and not holding them in, but rather breathing them out into the next generation puts you right in the middle of God’s will for believers.
Are we rewriting God's moral code to fit our lifestyle when we should be realigning our lives to God's moral code?
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
One of the biggest mistakes we can make is living in drudgery. How do we get out of the ruts and live as God intended?
What is the biggest mistake you have ever made? How do we avoid debilitating mistakes by nailing down our priorities?
When thinking about our mortality and our immortality, it's important to center on the big question: Are you ready?
Everyone falls at some point. The question is: who or what will restore us, and what will it take to bring us back?
Our first and utmost desire must be for Jesus Christ. Are we able to put other desires aside so we may love Him as we should?
There's a big difference between a "fan" of Jesus and a "follower" of Jesus. Which are you?
The Bible tells us we were made for more than just each other. We were made to seek His Kingdom and fulfill His purposes.
The Bible is still relevant in our day, as it is the most impactful and life-changing collection of writings ever penned.
The Word of God will lead, guide, and direct you to a fuller path of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, and much much more.
As followers of Christ, we must not only read and know God's Word, we must live IN the Word.
Jesus came to earth as prophesied, displaying one of the qualities listed in Isiaah 9, "Mighty God," but He was mighty in meekness, fulfilling all He was sent to accomplish.
Our counselor will speak to us, lead us, and comfort us. Let's explore the ways that He accomplishes these things.
Jesus can awaken souls because He is Wonderful. What is the "wonder" behind the "wonderful?"
Sometimes our lives are so crammed with $tuff that our souls are left empty. How do we "de-idolized" the "$tuff" around which so many of us build our lives?
Pride can be positive or negative. As Christ-followers, we should seek the kind of power that follows His principles.
Desires can be healthy or unhealthy, depending on how we manage them. God has a management program for you.
Why did Jesus talk more about money than He did heaven, hell, or prayer? There are good reasons.
Spiritual disciplines have helped believers stay on course for centuries, and remain essential to a life well-lived.
In our quest to find love, to belong, and to become, we need to make time for "holy pauses."
Todd Ahrend, founder and International Director of The Traveling Team, shares about the focus of mission efforts in the 21st century.
Have you ever come to a place of taking the road of faith instead of reason? What did that require of you?
What are the qualities of the kind of relationships that God desires for His children as they fulfill the Great Commission?
Our world presents a daily challenge to families as we work to shape our children as God desires.
Who's the Number One Dad? There's only one, but He gave us the number one example to follow.
We hope you enjoy and benefit from Grace Point Church's messages. Thank you for taking time to listen!
It's certain that we were created to glorify God and serve Him. You have a unique "shape," so let's talk about how to discover your purpose and fulfil your mission as a child of God.
Discipleship can be greatly misunderstood, and is probably much simpler than we try to make it.
Christ's resurrection was the pivot point of eternity, and each of us has a direct link to it through a personal relationship with Jesus.
Christ's death expressed two major concepts that help us learn to deal with pain and loss.
The root of "forgiveness" is "give" – Understanding mercy and grace can make all the difference.
One major key to getting "unstuck" is setting boundaries before you encounter the temptation.
When attraction gives way to opportunity, we need an advance plan to deal with Satan's attacks.
There's no doubt that most people are or have been caught by a "fatal attraction". Christ provides the only way out.
Do you live a free life or a bound life? How is it possible for a "saved" person to continue to sin? Is your life a contradiction?
Todd Ahrend, founder and International Director of The Traveling Team, shares about the focus of mission efforts in the 21st century.
Christ came to earth to make the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. Without that sacrifice, Christmas is meaningless
Our children are a heritage from the Lord. We must be aware of the responsibility of preparing them for the future that God has designed for them.
Think your kids are safe and warm because they are growing up in a Christian home? Think again.
How do we lead our children to the proper identity, relationships, character, and purpose?
Gary Thomas, best-selling author and speaker, helps couples and singles find God's design for marriage and family. This is session one of his Sacred Marriage seminar.
It takes 40 days to grow a squash. It takes 40 years to grow an oak. Make the commitment, make the time. Be an oak.
God has a plan for reaching the world. It's called the church, and it's the only way to bless a community in body, soul, and spirit.
Following Christ means we live according to a new "normal," a radical way of life that can only be understood and lived through the power of Christ.
There are two essential elements needed for a believer to become totally a part of a local church family.
There's a lot that's wrong with the church, but let's talk about some things that are right.
God has placed us within a specific time, in specific places, and among specific people, all for the purpose of bringing Him glory and being the Gospel in His name.
Our purpose should match God's purpose; making disciples at home and abroad, to the eternal glory of Jesus Christ.
Is forgiveness a two-way street or a one-way proposition? Jesus teaches how to truly forgive.
The answer is sometimes "no." How do we handle that? Three responses that will help you see His way.
Jesus's prayer in John 17 may be called the "True Lord's Prayer." He teaches by example how we should pray for our children.
Sometimes prayer isn't easy, and answers don't always come on our timetable. There's a work and a wait...
We must be intentional about setting aside times of silence, solitude, and Scripture as we seek the Father's face.
Prayer should not be an occasional occurence, but a way of life. Let's learn from the Master Teacher.
Bringing our children to a point of righteousness requires commitment, courage, love, and determination.
Want to build a family of character and courage? Be real, be sold out, and don't be fake.
What is the "church?" Steeples? Programs? Seats? How we love the church may depend upon our understanding of the church.
Not only is your neighbor the people you live next to, but those you "friend" or "follow", those you work with, those you shop with, and those you share common interests with, are your neighbors as well.
Got the wants? Let's talk about coveting as we wrap up our study in the Ten Commandments.
Has cheating ever been on your radar? Mike and Lori discuss why it should never be an option.
Don't settle for a second rate god, when The God wants and is pursuing a relationship with you.
What is your view of God? God gives us "waypoints" to lead us to the one true God, and to live a life that helps us be a waypoint for others.
Tithing is a sensitive topic for some. The Scriptures - both Old Testament and New - are clear. We examine teachings on tithing throughout the Bible.
We've looked "without" - now it's time to look within and examine our own faith and commitment.
What do some of the major religions of the world teach about Jesus? That's a critical point when examining faith systems.
Are you ready to "leave boldly?" It's not about dying, it's about a certainty that we are really living.
If today were the last day of your life, would you do what you planned to do? God presents us with opportunities to humbly learn the important lessons of life.
Love can mean many things. We will look at God's definitions today, and discover how to not only love, but love completely.
We're "living between the trees," but we're not living it alone. Jesus is the perfect example of how to live the way God intended.
It's 100 times harder to finish a big task than to start one. The little book Haggai contains some great big lessons on completing the tasks to which we are called.
This is one of those "one big idea" messages. All through Scripture we see God's plan, his "big idea."
What does it mean to belong? Maybe different things in different contexts, but let's look at what church membership means.
Minor Prophets are often neglected, but in them, we find some of Scripture's richest lessons. Jonah is a prime example as we learn about obedience and challenge.
Are you ready to "super-size" your life? It might take an adjustment in attitude, a commitment to a new paradigm, or the willingness to get off the couch!
Stepping up to meet your challenge isn't always easy, but God's plans always include his provision for getting the job done.
Everyone wants to be more than he is. God's transformative power can be active through you, making you all that he designed you to be and fit for duty.
God is calling men and women to a relationship with him and to a commitment to lead families according to his design.
Lori and Mike challenge us in practical ways to teach and mold our children into images of Christ.
Are we going to submit to God's instruction when it comes to communication between a husband and a wife?
Bring your misspoken words, broken down lines of communication, dull ears for listening and let's have healthy conversations.
If God has given you a vision, it will be up to you to see that the vision doesn't lose focus, intensity, direction, or momentum.
Are you fit, or out of shape? Consider your spiritual fitness as well as your physical fitness.
God's principles of envisioning, preparing, and building have a place in our church and in your life.
If God has given you a vision, be careful not to "self-sabotage." Here's how to avoid that perilous trap.
Sometimes our fiercest attacks come from within. Let's talk about how to handle those "internal bombs."
It goes without saying that whatever God calls you to, He wants you to succeed. As you make His goals your goals, how do you structure your life to follow Him and have success?
Learn to cast vision today for a preferred future. What will you do that has true significance?
We need a divinely-placed burden to live the life to which God has called us. That's vision.
Every gift carries a message about the giver. What do your gifts say about you? What does God's greatest Gift say to us?
What would our Christmas be like if we took on the same attitude that Jesus did when He came to earth?
As we begin the Advent season, looking to the celebration of the coming of the Lord, let's be sure that The Gift doesn't get buried under all those other things that we call gifts.
You teach what you know, but you reproduce what you are. What are you and where are you in your spiritual walk?
God calls us to be bold and courageous as we "take the hill" that He has set before us. Let's march!
We need to put on "Moses Sandals" as we approach the next decade in Grace Point's story.
The second major commitment of Grace Point Church, along with the Great Commission, is the Great Commandment. Let's talk about ways we can truly show God's love to the world.
Grace Point's great commitment has never changed, and never will. We have a great commitment to the Great Commission.
As we remember and reflect, one of our most meaningful times as Christians is partaking of the Lord's Supper. Let's remember Christ's work on our behalf and celebrate the victory we have through Him.
God has given us direct instructions to remember what He has done in our lives. It's a constant throughout Scripture. How can remembering propel us to a God-led future?
We are moving forward at a staggering pace as Christians and as a Grace Point family. Let's take time to reflect on God's work in our lives and church before looking ahead to our future.
How do we communicate God's kind of love with our children in a way that makes it stick?
Just a little reminder to men and women about what it takes to make a marriage what it needs to be.
You might know a "definition" of faith, but let's look at it from a different perspective and see if we can nail down what faith really means.
God can do a work of grace in you that will shape your life and your ministry to others in ways you could have never imagined.
Death is not the end...it is only the end of the beginning. Let's talk about the reality of immortality.
We are called to "put off the old self" and "put on the new." Let's talk about how to do that.
God has given gifts to the church in order that we may accomplish our purpose. Have we accepted these gifts and put them to use?
Living "whole" -- is it just a pipe dream, or can we really walk truly worthy of the Lord who calls us to follow?
Paul's prayer is that we would live our lives in a way that acknowledges our unlimited God.
What is the "mystery" of which Paul speaks in his epistles? It all comes down to what is the absolute bottom line of being a follower of Christ.
Dr. John Trent explains the true meaning of the word "blessing" and how we should pass the blessing to our children.
It's time to move. Christ has saved us and reconciled us for a reason and a purpose. Let's move to where He wants us to be.
There are many things we can live without, but hope is not one of them. Find the source of real hope for your life and future.
Let's boil it all down to the basics: why did Jesus come to earth, what did He want to accomplish, and how did He do it?
God has blessed us with "every spiritual blessing." We can find that life is truly good when we are living as God intended. (Part two of two-part message)
Pastor Pete shares his heart about God's vision for the Grace Point gathering in Rogers.
God has blessed us with "every spiritual blessing." We can find that life is truly good when we are living as God intended.
Matthew, Jesus, Paul, and Peter all quoted from Isaiah 53, where the incarnation of Christ is foretold. We are encouraged to remember what Christ did for us by partaking of the Lord's Supper.
How deep and how wide does Jesus affect your life? He is able to change you completely.
Perhaps the best Christmas present we can give to others (and ourselves) is to "be still" and know He is God.
Perhaps the best Christmas present we can give to others (and ourselves) is to "be still" and know He is God.
The "Three Wise Men" may not have fully realized what they were doing in bringing gifts to Jesus, but we can learn from their example as we seek to worship Christ fully this Christmas.
Is "holiday cheer" just possible for a few short days each year? Let's look at how to find true happiness, joy, and peace every day of our lives.
Life is filled with choices. There are two very big ones that we need to address before embarking on some of the others.
Life is filled with choices. There are two very big ones that we need to address before embarking on some of the others.
Ready to take the challenge? Let's talk about the bottom line for our Radical study. What does Radical mean for you?
We we talk about missions, there's a definite end in mind, but at what point is that found? The journey continues.
God calls us to a radical level of living and giving. Just how far will we go with Him?
Our awareness of persecution toward Christians worldwide is spare. Today we look into the very widespread persecution of today's church, and how our awareness can increase and lend aid.
Just why do Christians spend their lives, their time, and their money to take the Gospel to the world? Where did we get such ideas? Todd Ahrend explains.
Did Jesus really mean that we should give up everything we have in order to follow Him?
What is means to be an encourager. Mike tells us how important it is for us to bless those around us and in our community.
Could your photo be found on the "Humility" Wikipedia page? Why is humility important in our walk with Christ and in following His design for our lives?
Lori speaks of God's love for us in his forgiveness and restoration. A demonstration of redemption in the life of a prostitute named Rahab.
Leadership requires a proper beginning, nurturing in the middle, and finishing well. If we want to pass the baton effectively, there are lessons we can learn from some of history's most effective leaders.
We are living in a day when character is in high demand, but in short supply. How do we stay in focus when it comes to our personal integrity?
Mike teaches the importance and significance of the Bible. We learn how we should handle the Bible. Do we make it a part of our life?
A complete transformation will include our mind, our heart, and the way we relate to others.
There is a cure for the madness of war, whether it is a personal battle or one between nations. It's so simple, but so effective.
What fuels our vision? The Great Commission requires us to "go," but where do we get the inspiration and the impetus to put the Great Commission in motion?
Jesus taught and spoke with many stories and parables. We all have a story. What is your story?
Pete shares a strategy for fulfilling the Great Commission of Jesus Christ. The impact a new church can have in a community.
God has an appointment for you at the intersection of your life and your time. Are we willing to say "Any time, anywhere, anything, God"?
We were created to worship God. The earthly church exists to bring people to Him so they may worship, too.
Finding a place of ministry is vital for a child of God. We want to help you find your gift and find your fit in this family of God.
Mike discusses lessons in learning to serve like Jesus. What hinders us from serving our communties and others as Jesus served?
God has resurrected this Jesus! Have you really heard that message? Has that message rocked your life?
How do we engage the Christian life to the point that we are becoming more and more like Christ? That's our goal.
Perfection in our world is not only expected, it's demanded. Is that realistic? Is it healthy? Is it possible? Let's talk.
God wants us to have a family - a really big one, with Him at the head and lots and lots of brothers and sisters surrounding us as we gather to bring Him glory and carry out His plan.
What does "membership" mean? When it comes to Christ's body, it can point to a whole different understanding than that of many people and organizations.
Solomon said, "He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires." We all need to find the God-designed benefit of living in a true connected community of Christ followers.
You can't have community without unity. It's possible - even in the midst of a very diverse creation.
Is your worship focused on substance or style? Pastor Mike McDaniel shows us two maps for worship and the source of substantive worship.
How many worship services have truly changed you from the core of your being to the far reaches of your mind?
Worship is a big subject. Why were we created? Why was everything that exists brought into being? God is clear about it in His Word.
Those two big "church" words may be hard to get our arms around, but within them are powerful attributes of God which should transform the way we worship.
The most compelling story we can tell is our personal journey to Christ and how He has changed our lives. Pete Finfrock shares how he met the Savior.
Mike revisits the Christmas story as Christ was born, showing how God loves everyone in His creation through the gift of Jesus. He prvides us three adjustments to extend your love to all, and give more of yourself for those in need.
How to give more and spend less. Giving more of yourself by serving and sacrificing. Make it a lifestyle change to carry past the Christmas season.
It's possible to be truly content. Even on Christmas morning. Even after Christmas morning. Even when all the bills come in. It's possible to be content every day of you life.
What would happen if we began to worship Him fully with our lives, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year?
God gave His Son so He could adopt us as His children and heirs. As we talk about the family, let's not leave out those around us who have no family.
Attorney Stuart Cearly joins Pastor Mike for this emotional and personal discussion on adoption.
There can be no greater blessing to a community than to start a church, because only a church has the capacity to bless a community in body, soul, and spirit.
What's in a name? Where Satan is concerned, it's our hope that your name makes him shake in his boots.
Yesterday's successes do not guarantee tomorrow's victories. The ongoing battle with the adversary is a daily challenge, but we can have daily victory.
Satan's ways and offers make perfect sense and are widely accepted, but their delivery is always a rip-off.
Whether you realize it or not, you encounter the devil every day. Whatcha gonna do when he comes for you?
It's easy to make too much of Satan, and it's easy to make too little. He's real, but he may not look and act the way you think he does.
Do you have a covenant relationship with Christ and His church, or are you just in it for the grape juice?
As humans, our completion can be found only from one source: through our relationship with Christ, and his Bride, the Church.
There are questions we must ask ourselves if we truly want to be a healthy church. Sometimes the answers are difficult, but we must look ourselves in the mirror and see ourselves as we really are.
What is following Jesus Christ worth to you? Is there anything that should get in the way of being who He calls us to be?
Missions doesn't always mean going to other nations. Our mission must start at our own doorstep as we reach out to one of the most unevangelized nations on earth: The United States of America.
Daren and Shawna Davis are strategists for the northern South Africa region, and they share about their work of over 12 years.
Sin entangles and ensnares. To be real disciples of Christ, we must address sin and have the proper response.
How far can faith take us? Many people outgrow their ability to see what God places plainly before us.
What is your destiny? Here's help for finding God's best for you and fulfilling all that you were meant to do in life.
Pastor Mike McDaniel tells about the two builders that it takes to build a marriage, and the bricks they need to get the job done.
Truth is truth no matter where it comes from. We can live above the normal, above the natural through Jesus Christ's power.
How would you live if you knew you only had a few months left? Live like you were dying.
You may be too big for God to use, but you can never be to small for God to use. Get off the porch.
Moms know best: stress is a real part of everyday life. What can we do? God has a response to the stress and strains you may feel.
Daniel and his friends faced some unusual and challenging situations in their day -- and we may be called upon to face similar circumstances at some point. What can we learn from their responses.
Many people believe that anger cannot be controlled, but God has given us Scriptural principles for putting a harness on this wild beast.
Emotions can rule us, or we can rule our emotions. What weapons can we use against the destructive side of many of the emotions we experience? Is fear our friend or our foe?
We have two options when dealing with sin: conceal it or confess it. Which path will we take?
Has your life gotten so clogged with the things of our culture and maintaining them that you have no time, money, or energy left for the things of God?
What would life be like if we inhaled but never exhaled? In a word: death. As Christians, we are created to inhale the Holy Spirit of God, as well as to exhale in service to Him.
Starting our day with silence, solitude, and Scripture can the entry point to a day tuned to God and His will for our lives.
Discipleship: what is it? What are the real essentials that we need in order to live as God intended?
Are we truly looking forward to Christ's return, or have we dropped our gaze to our circumstances and surroundings?
The church should be a place where we are loved and accepted -- a place where we can be open and honest with God and each other.
Christ won the victory, the war is won, but we still find ourselves in battles every day. Let's talk about how to win the battles from a position of victory.
David was "out of control" when He worshipped before the Ark of the Covenant in his skivies. At least, that was one opinion. But was he?
A new year brings hope...and promises fulfillment - if we're looking in the right direction.
Who is Jesus Christ? What does it mean when the Bible says He is "the Word made flesh?"
Do you need a makeover? We need to show a watching world that there is a real difference in followers of Christ. What will it take to get your life in line?
We're all on life's road, but there are options: some good, some bad. How do we find the right path, and is it true that "all path's lead to Heaven?"
Who is the real Jesus? Let's talk about all the different ways people see Christ, and then we'll see what the Bible says.
What is it that we all should be certain we have before "leaving home?" Paul gives us three top priorities to pack in our life-suitcase before venturing into our future.
What do you think of when you hear the word "Christian?" Let's consider doing an extreme makeover on the way we present ourselves to the world around us.
Eric Bryant of Mosaic in Los Angeles, California, brings us a "hot button" message to conclude our Man Up Conference.
Are you passing on a legacy? Are you building your life into the life of another so that your ministry will have meaning for generations to come?
Who is your Nathan? Who holds you accountable for living the life that God has prescribed?
The first message in our Connect series. Do you have a Jonathan in your life who can support you, encourage you, and stick by you in the toughest times?
Nobody said life as a follower of Christ made everything easy. Sometimes we must make tough decisions in order to see God work through tough situations.
Discipline is never easy, but it's what we are called to as followers of Christ. Need help?
Everyone's got a story. What's yours? Are you ready to tell others what Christ has done for you?
What are you passionate about? Your life will tell the story, but how do we put our priorities in the right order?
Where do we go to find true community in a world such as ours? Let's talk about making the kind of connections that last for eternity.
In what direction is our nation headed? Is there a "true north" for the United States? If so, how do we find it?
Loving your children: is it that complicated? Well, it is and it isn't. Let's go over some basics.
Scripture COMMANDS us to be drunk. Really? Drunk? Well, yes, but not quite the way you may think.
Who's your best bud? Who can you trust? Who's willing to go alongside you and help you with your journey. We all need someone!
Are you ready to let the Holy Spirit wash you, immerse you, love you into what He wants you to be?
What will it take for your life to take on a whole new meaning and direction? Let's talk about filling up with the right stuff.
Passing on a legacy of changed lives is our goal as we teach others, especially our children. Let's talk about making a real difference in those around us.
Slow down! In fact, HALT! Take a few minutes to listen and learn about what it might take to set yourself on fire!
What signs are you seeing on your life's road? "Slow Down"? "Congestion Ahead"? How about "I'd Turn Back If I Were You."? Maybe we need to take a good look at our GPS (God's Positioning System) and be sure we're on the right track.
Is there a message we can glean from the tale of the seven castaways? This ain't no three-hour tour, but you'll get your money's worth by listening!
We're saved -- from what, TO what? What's your responsibility now that you've been transformed? Let's talk about it.
GPC'S Student Pastor speaks on becoming what God designed us to be as followers of Christ.
The familiar story of the writing of the most popular hymn of all time, Amazing Grace, has inspired millions of people to look into God's grace and celebrate the sacrificial atonement of Jesus Christ.
Is God the Father of both Jesus and Muhammed? Is following one the same as following the other? Let's look at God's Book and get this straight.
The number one question asked by people throughout history: what am I here for? Let's ruminate on that for a while.
Wealth is measured in many ways. By world-wide standards, we are all fabulously rich. What responsibilities come with such a blessing?
Renowned author/speaker Dr. Gary Chapman shares some keys for getting your family in shape!
The word "hope" is getting tossed around a good bit. What are the prospects of finding REAL hope, though? Possible? We think so.