Good + Angry - Angry like JesusThis message is from Executive Pastor Jim George in week four of the sermon series “Good + Angry - Angry like Jesus” Grace Pointe is a church dedicated to seeing a world full of healthy churches by making as many people as much like Jesus in the shortest time possible. We are a multi-site church in Illinois with a campus in Naperville, IL and Plainfield, IL. If you would like to learn more about Grace Pointe Church, please visit www.gracepointe.us. Grace Pointe Naperville: Sunday services at 8 am, 9:30 am, and 11 amGrace Pointe Plainfield: Sunday services at 9 am and 11 amUnderstanding righteous anger and the dangers of religious legalism through Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees. Discover the profound difference between man-made rules and genuine faith, and learn how to break free from religious legalism that prevents authentic ministry. This powerful message explores the cycle of hardened hearts versus tender hearts, providing practical steps for authentic Christian living and effective ministry. Learn to identify and overcome self-imposed barriers to serving God and others. Topics include religious legalism, spiritual growth, church ministry, Christian leadership, Bible teaching, faith development, spiritual transformation, religious freedom, Christian service, biblical interpretation, spiritual disciplines, church community, Christian living, discipleship, and spiritual warfare.Important VersesMark 3:1-6John 13:14-15Ephesians 2:12 Corinthians 3:18Think about it!What are some modern examples of how we might create man-made rules that hinder genuine ministry?How can we tell the difference between legitimate reasons and excuses when it comes to serving or sharing our faith?What does it mean to have a 'hardened heart' and how might we recognize this in ourselves?The pastor describes Jesus being both angry and grieved at the Pharisees' hardened hearts. Why both emotions?What are some ways we might be unintentionally imitating the Pharisees in our Christian walk today?How does regular church attendance relate to using our spiritual gifts effectively?What steps can we take to move from the 'cycle of the hardened heart' to the 'cycle of the tenderhearted'?How might our excuses for not sharing our faith or serving others anger Jesus today?Apply it!This week, identify one area where you've been making excuses about serving or sharing your faith. Commit to taking one specific action step toward obedience in that area, whether it's volunteering at church, sharing your testimony with someone, or using your spiritual gift to serve others.Key TakeawaysMan-made rules and excuses can lead to hardened hearts that anger JesusRegular church attendance and service should be a priority for believersGod has given believers both spiritual gifts and the gospel message to reach othersMoving from excuses to obedience starts with prayer and reflection on God's work in our livesThe 'cycle of the tenderhearted' begins with obedience and leads to fruitful ministry