Connection Sunday 2026

As we continue our Lenten journey this year through the Penitential Psalms.  Today, we continue to explore the theme of grace in the wilderness, in that there is grace for our sins. Understanding it is in the “eremos” where God exposes sin and leads His people back to Him through repentance.  Looking at the meaning of true repentance during the season of Lent through the history of David in Psalm 51 and 2 Samuel 11–12.  David’s grave sins against Bathsheba and Uriah reveal how unchecked desire leads to deeper sin and destruction. Yet when the prophet Nathan confronts him, David responds with genuine repentance. Psalm 51 becomes a model of authentic repentance, one that is not forced, transactional, or merely performed out of obligation. Instead, true repentance that flows from deep conviction, humility, and grief over sin, acknowledging that all sin is ultimately against God, and actual repentance always involves honest confession and a heartfelt plea for mercy, and lasting change. Leading believers into restored relationships and transformed living in Christ.

((Audio Only))

STUDY GUIDE

1 – The Foundation of the Church ~ In Matthew 16:18, Jesus says He will build His church on “this rock.”  According to the sermon, what is the “rock” Jesus is referring to, and why is this significant for understanding the Church?

2 – Understanding the Word Ekklesia ~ The Greek word ekklesia means “assembly” or “called-out gathering.”  How does this definition challenge the common idea that church is primarily a building or institution?

3 – Misconceptions About the Church ~ The sermon addressed three common misconceptions about the Church.  Which of these stood out to you the most:
– The Church being divided
– The Church being a building
– Church success being measured by size
Why?

4 – The “Ecclesial Minimum” ~ The sermon described three essential elements that define the Church: Worship, Community, and Mission.  Why are all three necessary? What happens if one of these is missing?

5 – Worship ~ Hebrews 13:15 speaks of continually offering praise to God.  What are some ways worship can extend beyond Sunday services into everyday life?

6 – Community ~ According to Ephesians 2:19, believers are members of the household of God.  Why is meaningful Christian community essential for spiritual growth?

7 – Mission ~ Read Matthew 28:19–20. How does the Great Commission shape the purpose and calling of the Church?

8 – Living the Balance ~ The sermon warned about the dangers of worship-only, community-only, or mission-only approaches.  Which imbalance do you think is most common in churches today? Why?

9 – Personal Response ~ The sermon concluded with an invitation to start, continue, or go deeper.  In which area is God calling you to grow right now:
– Worship (deepening your relationship with Jesus)
– Community (engaging more fully with other believers)
– Mission (serving and sharing the gospel)
What is one practical step you can take this week?

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

Hebrews 13:15
Ephesians 2:19
Matthew 28:19-20
Matthew 16:13-18
John 17:21