How Faith Is Passed On

Sunday, August 16

2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”

Devotion

We can teach what we know or what we’ve heard in church, but the more powerful and enduring transmission is imparting to others who we are (or are not) in Jesus. If our faith is sincere, having come from being immersed in God’s Word (faith comes by hearing), and has had its effect of transforming our own lives from one degree of glory to another, then we can impart our faith to future generations as parents, teachers, and disciple-makers. If our faith is insincere, imperfect, or immature, then this is most likely the faith we will impart to future generations.

We can’t really change others. But the bread of life and the living water flowing through us as the Word of God does have the power to change others if it has changed us first. Has the Word of God made you wise for salvation? Only then can it flow through you and make others wise for salvation also, just as was said of Timothy: “From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). Scripture made Lois wise for salvation and flowed through her to reach her daughter Eunice, and then flowed through Lois and Eunice to reach Timothy, even from his infancy.

But we ought not to have tunnel vision regarding our natural family. Paul became a spiritual father to Timothy through Scripture and the power of Jesus. This making of disciples and teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded is often highly focused on natural children and perhaps grandchildren for a season.

But God’s intent and instruction for us as priests is for His Word to flow through us to all nations, and that includes flowing through those who may not be natural parents or grandparents yet, or ever. “Sing, O barren one, who did not bear; break forth into singing and cry aloud, you who have not been in labor! For the children of the desolate one will be more than the children of her who is married,” says the Lord (Isaiah 54:1).

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Let Your Word transform my life so deeply that my faith becomes a living testimony to those around me. Help me faithfully impart sincere faith to the next generation and to everyone You place in my path. May Your Word flow through me and lead others to know and love You. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Before focusing on changing others, invite God’s Word to transform you. The faith that flows through us must first take root within us.

Resources

• Gather the family and join us this morning for a powerful time of worship and a life-giving message! Find a Free Chapel campus near you or worship with us online. We can’t wait to worship with you!

• Read Psalm 71:18 and personalize it as a declaration of your desire to leave a lasting legacy of faith for generations to come.