8.10.25 TRUSTING THE COVENANT: “Staying Connected”
John 15:1-8, I John 4:7-21
Dear Trinity Family & Friends,
Have you ever felt like your connection to God was running low—like a phone slowly losing charge? You’re still functioning, still going through the motions, but something vital feels… disconnected.
This Sunday, we launch the third movement of our yearlong Covenant Sermon Series with a message entitled “Staying Connected,” grounded in two passages—John 15:1–8 and 1 John 4:7–21. Jesus gives us the image of a vine and branches, a powerful picture of what it means to stay rooted in him. He doesn’t call us to bear fruit on our own. He calls us to abide—to remain, dwell, stay connected. And what does that connection look like? Love.
According to 1 John, the clearest sign that we’re connected to God is how we love one another. Not just love in word or sentiment, but in action—in the way we show up for one another, extend grace, and remain committed even when it’s hard. Staying connected to God and one another is not passive. It’s a choice, a practice, a covenant.
As we prepare for Sunday, I invite you to reflect: What are you connected to? And is that connection helping you grow in Christ?
Episode 17: Life Together
Day 1: John 1:1-18; 3-4
Day 2: John 5; 9; 11
Day 3: John 14-17
Day 4: John 18-21
Day 5: 1 John 2-4; 2 John; 3 John
Day 6: Covenant Meditation on John 15:9-13
Day 7: Group Meeting Experience with
John 13:1-17
Small Group Discussion Questions:
- Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” What does that image mean to you personally?
- In what ways do you intentionally stay connected to God? To others in the faith?
- 1 John says, “Those who do not love do not know God.” How do you wrestle with that challenge in real-life relationships?
- Where might God be inviting you to reconnect—to abide more deeply, love more fully, or trust more completely?
Let’s begin this new season of trust together. I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday as we stay connected to Christ, to one another, and to the covenant that holds us all.
Blessings,
Pastor Dedric
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