Dear Trinity Family & Friends,

As we conclude our sermon series, “From Both Sides of the Table,” we will explore a topic that resonates deeply with the challenges of our modern lives: “Driving Force.”

This final sermon, based on Matthew 16:24-28 (CEB), invites us into a conversation on what it means to follow Christ with humility and selflessness while navigating the pursuit of success and prosperity in our daily lives. The passage challenges us to take up our cross, deny ourselves, and follow Jesus—a call that seems counterintuitive in a world that often celebrates self-promotion and personal gain. Yet, within this paradox lies the heart of the Gospel.

I’m excited to share that I have invited Larry Lowe, our Church Council Chairperson, as my conversation partner for this concluding sermon. Larry brings a wealth of experience and a thoughtful perspective that I believe will enrich our discussion. Together, we will explore how we, as a faith community, can embody the humility and selflessness of Christ while still striving for excellence in all we do.

As in our previous sermons, we’ll be guided by the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience. This approach will help us ground our conversation in the wisdom of our faith while remaining open to the diverse insights that the Spirit may bring through our shared experiences.

As we prepare our hearts and minds, I encourage you to reflect on these questions in your small groups or personal study:

1. How does the call to take up our cross and follow Jesus challenge the way we pursue success in our lives?
2. In what ways can the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience—inform our understanding of true success and fulfillment in life?
3. How can we practice humility and selflessness in our daily interactions, especially in a culture that often rewards self-promotion?
4. What does it mean to find our identity in Christ rather than in our achievements, possessions, or status?

This series has been an opportunity for us to engage deeply with our faith and with one another, modeling how we can navigate differences and challenges while staying rooted in the love of Christ. I hope you will join us as we bring this series to a close, and together, seek to live out the Gospel in every aspect of our lives.

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Dedric