Behind the Message: The Gift

Behind the Message: Introducing “The Gift” Series and the Book “Dangerous Prayers”

Overview

Pastor Craig Groeschel sits down for a casual “Behind the Message” conversation to preview his upcoming Christmas series, “The Gift,” and to announce his new book, Dangerous Prayers. He explains why this three-week teaching will take a deeper, more theological look at the gifts of the Magi and how each gift foreshadows an aspect of Jesus’ identity. The discussion also highlights Craig’s hope to stretch people’s faith, his personal rhythm of taking an annual post-Christmas nap, and the journey that led him to write about bolder, faith-filled prayer.

Context

• The chat opens with light-hearted banter about a past plank-holding contest with Levi Lusko and Craig’s reluctance to attempt a longer one on camera.
• Jonathan (host) transitions from workouts to ministry matters, cueing Craig to talk about the new message series and the forthcoming book release.

Themes

1. Why a Series Called “The Gift”

• The wise men’s gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—were both practical offerings and prophetic symbols of who Jesus is.
• Craig has pondered teaching this angle for years; the series finally provides space to explore each gift in depth.

2. A Deliberately “Heady” Approach

• Craig likes to give the church a varied discipleship “diet”: sometimes felt-need talks, other times Bible-deep dives.
• In this series he aims to “arm people with scriptural knowledge,” starting with the picture of Jesus as High Priest by reaching back into Old Testament imagery.

3. Craig’s Anticipated Highlight

• Though all three weeks matter, he’s especially excited about the Christmas service focused on Jesus’ kingship, joking, “Kanye says Jesus is king— and I agree.”

4. Holiday Rhythm & the Famous Nap

• Annual tradition: after the marathon of Christmas services Craig schedules one big restorative nap.
• Last year’s nap was lost in the shuffle; he humorously reports taking a make-up nap at Thanksgiving.

5. Introducing Dangerous Prayers

• The book emerges from Craig’s honest confession that prayer can feel hard and distracted—even for a pastor.
• Realization: many prayers were “too safe.” He sensed God nudging, “Ask Me for something that takes real faith.”
• Goal of the book: challenge believers to pray bolder, risk-embracing prayers because “following Jesus was never meant to be safe.”

Resources

• Message series: “The Gift” (three parts, leading up to Christmas at Life.Church and Church Online).
• Book: Dangerous Prayers by Craig Groeschel (now available for pre-order).