How To Redeem Your Family Name | Jentezen Franklin

Sunday, June 1

Key Scriptures:

Genesis 12:3; Numbers 26:9-11; Psalm 47; Numbers 16:9; Proverbs 17:17; Psalm 84:10

Laying The Foundation

We live in a culture that recognizes that we are broken and dysfunctional but struggles with the acceptance of personal responsibility. This can be a fatalistic excuse for our behavior or a trap that empowers us to embrace and justify our behavior. The statement is often quoted, “I am the way I am, because my parents were who they were.” It is as if we are resigned to living a certain life simply because our parents chose that way of life for themselves. Spiritually speaking, we refer to it as a ‘Generational Curse.’ Even mature believers can feel trapped by behaviors that have been handed down through their families over the generations.

Have you felt trapped by anything that was done by your parents or relatives? If so, how have you dealt with it?

What if there is another way of looking at this? What if there is another way of reading that statement: “I am the way I am, because my parents were who they were.” “I am different!”

Intro

“I will bless those who bless you (Abraham/Israel), and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:3 (NIV)

As we heard from the Israeli Ambassador to the United States in this week’s services, Pastor Jentezen used the opportunity to remind us of the promise and warning spoken over those who support or oppose Israel.

It is significant that in Genesis 12:3, this promise was spoken by God to Abraham, but it was also addressed to his family and descendants. Thus, the promise resides over the nation of Israel as the descendants of Abraham.

Even more significant is that the blessing or warning for those who interact with the family of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel extends to their families as well.

Pastor Jentezen used this truth to bring our attention to the impact that personal decisions can have on generations to come. Decisions shape family legacies, distinguishing individuals and families for better or for worse.

The question is:

Are we trapped by them or empowered by them?

Moreover, is it an excuse or an opportunity to see the power of God’s grace in our lives?

“and the sons of Eliab were Nemuel, Dathan and Abiram. The same Dathan and Abiram were the community officials who rebelled against Moses and Aaron and were among Korah’s followers when they rebelled against the Lord. 10 The earth opened its mouth and swallowed them along with Korah, whose followers died when the fire devoured the 250 men. And they served as a warning sign.” Numbers 26:9-10 (NIV)

This Scripture refers to Korah, a Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron due to jealousy and resentment over his role in carrying the brazen altar. He felt that his position was inferior to those carrying the Ark of the Covenant. His ambition led him to recruit the support of Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben (the oldest of Jacob’s sons) to back his attempt to challenge the authority of Moses and Aaron.

His poor decision led to divine judgment: the earth swallowed Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, along with their possessions and families. Additionally, the other 250 followers of Korah were consumed by holy fire, along with all their possessions (see Numbers 16).

Pastor Franklin spoke about those who have been living under the curse of bad choices made by their parents—or even ancestors—that have left them feeling trapped by those decisions. It would seem hopeless, except for what Numbers 26:11 says: “The line of Korah, however, did not die out.”

Despite the rebellion of their father and its consequences, the sons of Korah did not meet the same fate. They chose to be different, and God acknowledged and rewarded them for it.

What choice, if any, was made by someone else that you have had to live with?

Did it empower you or trap you?

How have you address it emotionally and spiritually?

From Rebellion to Redemption

“But the sons of Korah did not die.” Numbers 26:11 (ESV)

Though their father, Korah, led a rebellion against God and faced judgment, his sons made a different choice. They refused to follow in the path of bitterness and pride. Instead, they aligned themselves with God’s purpose, choosing honor over rebellion.

Their decision not only spared their lives—it redeemed their legacy. These sons of Korah became passionate worshippers, penning 11 powerful Psalms that continue to inspire hearts today. Among them is Psalm 47:1, “Clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph!”

Their story is a powerful reminder: generational curses can be broken. A new legacy can begin when one generation chooses God. From rebellion to worship—the sons of Korah show us that redemption is always possible.

What stands out to you about the decision Korah’s sons made, and why do you think it was significant? (Consider the courage it took to choose differently from their father.)

Are there any generational patterns in your own family that you feel called to break or redeem? (This could be attitudes, behaviors, or spiritual strongholds.)

Is there an area of your life where you need to “separate yourself” from something or someone in order to align more closely with God’s purpose?

The Power Of Decisions

Numbers 16:9-10 (NKJV):"Is it a small thing to you that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the work of the tabernacle of the Lord, and to stand before the congregation to serve them; and that He has brought you near to Himself, you and all your brethren, the sons of Levi, with you? And are you seeking the priesthood also?"

Romans 13:1-2 (NKJV):"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves."

Both Korah and Moses descended from Kohath, yet their hearts led them in opposite directions. Korah was privileged—chosen to carry the most sacred items in the tabernacle—but instead of being grateful, he became entitled. His rebellion wasn’t just against Moses—it was against God’s order.

Ingratitude is no small thing.

Moses confronted Korah by asking, “Is it a small thing to you that God brought you near to Himself?" (Numbers 16:9). Korah lost sight of the privilege of God’s presence and calling, trading it for envy and ambition.

We must ask ourselves:

Have I overlooked the blessings in my life that “shouldn’t be” by the world’s standards?

Have I become dissatisfied or complained about where God has placed me?

Often rebellion begins quietly—with grumbling, comparison, and dissatisfaction. But at its root is a heart that has forgotten the cross, the grace of God, and the weight of what we’ve been saved from.

Submission reveals trust.

Romans 13 reminds us that all authority is allowed by God. Resisting it, without God’s instruction, is resisting Him. Before challenging a situation, ask:

Am I truly submitted to God’s will, or am I just trying to be in control?

When you're on the receiving end:

Like Moses, we may face rebellion or ingratitude. The godly response isn’t retaliation—it’s prayer, humility, and obedience. Seek God’s counsel, ask Him to examine your heart, and trust Him for wisdom and protection.

Application: Redeeming Your Family Name

Every family has a name, a history, a story, and a reputation.

For some, it carries honor and blessing. For others, it bears the weight of brokenness, dysfunction, addiction, or anger. But no matter where your family falls, the good news is this: God can redeem any name, and you have a role to play in that transformation.

1. Break the Cycle with Intentional Choices

Redemption doesn’t happen by accident. If you’ve inherited a tradition of dysfunction, you have the power to break that pattern—but it requires intentionality. Choose to walk a different path. Prioritize worship over worry. Replace rage with righteousness. Establish new, godly traditions rooted in prayer, humility, and service.

You are not bound by the failures of your past or the sins of your family line. You are empowered by the Holy Spirit to chart a new course and pass down a legacy of faith.

2. Run in Your Own Lane

The temptation to compare ourselves to others—especially within families or churches—is real. Comparison kills contentment, and jealousy opens the door to division.

In Numbers 16, Korah challenged Moses’ leadership, not because Moses had wronged him, but because Korah envied his position. The result was disastrous. Korah lost sight of his own calling by coveting someone else's—and it cost him everything.

Instead of resenting the path God has given others, run with purpose in your own lane. Embrace your unique role in the family and the Body of Christ. You don’t have to be like your father, mother, siblings, or neighbors—you just need to be faithful to what God has asked of you. Faithfulness, not prominence, is what God rewards.

3. Families Are Born for Adversity—Not Division

Every family will face trials. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” God designed families not to fight each other, but to fight for each other.

Instead of letting adversity divide, let it unite you. As Pastor said, “One can put 1,000 to flight, but two can put 10,000 to flight.” Stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer, worship, and service. Be the one in your family who steps into the gap with faith and forgiveness.

Practical Steps Toward Redemption

i. Worship Constantly:

Cultivate an atmosphere of worship in your home. Whether through music, gratitude, or quiet moments with God, worship sets the tone for transformation.

ii. Serve in God's House:

Get involved in your local church. Serving connects you to community, humbles the heart, and keeps your focus on eternal things.

iii. Praise with Understanding:

Recognize God's mercy in your story. If He has spared you from judgment or delivered you from destruction, don’t take it lightly. Praise Him with insight and sincerity, acknowledging what He’s done and what He’s still doing.

Conclusion

We have seen how someone can choose to carry on family traditions—or how one person can change the pattern of those traditions. In Hank Williams Jr.’s song "Family Tradition," he speaks to the ruinous ways that took his father too soon. Hank Williams Sr. lived a short but fast life filled with alcohol and drug use. He struggled with back pain and addictions that overcame him. Whether by heart failure or another cause, he didn’t survive it.

There is another example that shows how our choices affect not only us but those who come after us:

Jonathan Edwards was one of the most respected preachers of his day. He attended Yale at the age of thirteen and later became the president of Princeton College. He married his wife, Sarah, and they were blessed with eleven children. Every night, he spent an hour talking with his family and then praying a blessing over each child. Jonathan and Sarah passed on a godly legacy to their children.

One hundred fifty years after his death, an American educator decided to trace the descendants of Jonathan Edwards. His findings were remarkable:

Jonathan Edwards’ legacy includes: 1 U.S. Vice-President, 1 Dean of a law school, 1 dean of a medical school, 3 U.S. Senators, 3 governors, 3 mayors, 13 college presidents, 30 judges, 60 doctors, 65 professors, 75 Military officers, 80 public office holders, 100 lawyers, 100 clergymen, and 285 college graduates.

During the same period as Edwards, there was another man named Max Jukes. Jukes' legacy came to public attention when the family trees of 42 different men in the New York prison system were traced back to him.

Jukes’ descendants included: 7 murderers, 60 thieves, 190 prostitutes, 150 other convicts, 310 paupers, and 440 who were physically wrecked by addiction to alcohol. Of the 1,200 descendants that were studied, 300 died prematurely.

Some of us come into a lifestyle not by choice but by tradition. Yet we do not have to accept what knocks at the door of our lives. Jesus paid the price to free us. If we ask Him into our lives and make a decision to follow Him and the roadmap He has written for us, we can be free. The life you live will determine the legacy you leave.aaaa

Call To Action:

As a family leader of future generations, will you be a ‘stumbling block’ or a ‘steppingstone?’

If a stumbling block, how do you turn things around?

Repent of sins or attitudes that have created bondage or a curse upon your family.

Come to the altar, bring all the baggage that you have created or that has been handed to you. Lay it at the foot of the cross.

Start new holy traditions, and redeem your family name by choosing Jesus, ensuring your legacy is one of faith and worship.

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, take all the sins I have committed and those who taught me by their behavior and forgive me for partaking in it. I ask You for forgiveness and a filling of Your Holy Spirit to help me change the trajectory of not only myself but of my family. It is Your Blood, Your mercy, and Your forgiveness, that I want to stand under. Cleanse me from all that was handed down to me. Equip me to walk out a life that reflects who You are and gives You glory. In Your Holy name Jesus, amen.”

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