Dear Trinity Family & Friends:

As we kick off our new sermon series, “From Both Sides of the Table,” we will discuss the topic that has sparked countless debates, divided communities, and even strained relationships: “Who’s Going to Heaven?”

This question, rooted in our faith tradition, invites us to explore deeper issues of salvation, grace, and judgment. We will explore Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (CEB), The Parable of the Sower, which reminds us that our job is to scatter seeds—seeds of love, truth, and hope—wherever we go. It’s not our job to judge who will receive those seeds or how they will grow. That’s the work of the Holy Spirit. Our calling is to be faithful in our planting, trusting God with the results.

I’m excited to share that I have invited our Director of Discipleship, Becca Bibee, as my conversation partner for this first sermon. Becca is a deep-thinker, and I’m looking forward to the insights she will bring to our discussion. We’ll be guided by the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience—as we navigate these discussions. This approach will help us remain rooted in our faith while also being open to what the Spirit is saying through diverse voices.

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

1. What does the Parable of the Sower teach us about the nature of God’s kingdom and our role in it? How does this change the way we approach sharing our faith?
2. In what ways can the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience—guide us in having difficult conversations about faith and salvation?
3. How do we balance holding firm to our beliefs while remaining open to listening to and understanding perspectives that differ from our own?
4. Can we engage in meaningful and respectful relationships with people of different faiths, while holding onto our belief in Jesus Christ as the way to salvation?

I hope you will join us as we explore what it means to live out the Gospel in a world that so desperately needs to see the love of Christ in action.

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Dedric