Passing Faith to the Next Generation: Love in Action
By Pastor Chris Teien | Rockwell Church
From the moment we first hear about Jesus, our faith journey begins. But how did we come to know Him? Who invested in us, shared the gospel, and guided us toward faith? More importantly, how are we passing that same faith to the next generation?
In Psalm 71:17-18, the psalmist declares, “Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” This passage reminds us that faith is meant to be shared—it is a legacy we leave behind.
1. Love God First and Most
Faithful parenting and mentoring begin with our own relationship with Christ. Deuteronomy 6:4-5 calls us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Children and young people need to see that our love for God is real, active, and the foundation of our lives. When faith is genuine, it becomes contagious.
2. Teach God’s Word Daily
It’s not enough to tell the next generation what the Bible says; we need to show them why it matters. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs us to impress God’s commands on our children—talking about them in daily life, whether at home, on the road, or before bed. Faith is not just for Sundays; it should be woven into the fabric of everyday moments.
3. Encourage Their Unique Design
Every child is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:13-14). Rather than forcing them into a mold, we should help them discover their God-given identity and calling. Encouragement builds confidence, and when children know they are valued in Christ, they develop a stronger faith foundation.
4. Guide with Wisdom and Discipline
Proverbs 22:6 tells us to “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Biblical discipline is not about control but about guiding children toward truth and wisdom. Providing structure, boundaries, and loving correction prepares them to make godly decisions.
5. Pray Over Their Lives
One of the greatest investments we can make is prayer. Philippians 1:9-11 encourages us to pray for wisdom, discernment, and spiritual growth in those we mentor. My step-grandmother prayed for me daily, and I believe her prayers played a crucial role in my faith journey. When we pray for our children and grandchildren, we invite God’s power into their lives.
6. Conduct Yourself in a Worthy Manner
Children learn more from what we do than from what we say. Philippians 1:27 calls us to “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Our lives should reflect integrity, faithfulness, and love for God. If we want the next generation to follow Jesus, we must live in a way that inspires them.
7. Exemplify Christian Living
Discipleship isn’t just teaching; it’s modeling. Titus 2:7-8 urges us to “set an example by doing what is good.” This includes demonstrating faith through generosity, endurance in trials, and joy in serving others. When children and young people see faith lived out authentically, they are more likely to embrace it themselves.
Leaving a Legacy of Faith
Our calling is clear: we must pass on faith in a way that is real, intentional, and lasting. Whether through prayer, teaching, encouragement, or example, every action we take influences the next generation. Who in your life needs to see faith in action? What steps can you take today to invest in their spiritual growth?
Faith isn’t just something we keep—it’s something we share. Let’s pass it on.
How has faith been passed down in your life? What has helped you invest in the next generation?
Resources for Passing Faith to the Next Generation
During the message “Love in Action Shapes the Next Generation,” several resources were mentioned to help parents, grandparents, and mentors guide children and young adults in their faith. Here are the key recommendations:
1. RightNow Media – Free Video Library
Rockwell Church offers RightNow Media, a streaming service with Bible studies, parenting resources, and kids’ content to help families grow in faith.
- Sign up for free through Rockwell Church: rockwell.church/rightnow
- Parenting Resources: Practical help on biblical parenting and discipleship.
- Kids’ Content: Over 2,000 faith-based videos.
- Tim Tebow Series: Faith-based encouragement from the former NFL quarterback and outspoken Christian athlete.
2. Adventures in Odyssey (Audio Dramas for Kids & Families)
Engaging storytelling that teaches biblical values through radio drama and audio series.
- Available on:
- Focus on the Family Website
- Apple Podcasts & Streaming Apps
3. Christian Media for Kids
Encouraging children to watch faith-based TV shows and movies reinforces biblical truth. Recommended programs include:
- Superbook – Animated Bible stories bringing scripture to life (Superbook Website).
- The Donut Man – A fun, musical Christian program for young kids.
- VeggieTales – Classic animated stories with biblical lessons.
4. iamsecond.com – Testimonies of Faith
A video series featuring testimonies of people whose lives have been transformed by Jesus Christ. Great for teens and adults seeking real-life examples of faith.
- Watch videos here: iamsecond.com
5. Sports Spectrum – Faith and Sports Magazine
For young athletes and sports fans, Sports Spectrum shares inspiring stories of professional athletes living out their faith.
- Website & Magazine Subscription: sportsspectrum.com
- Encouraging Christian athletes: Learn how Tim Tebow, Kirk Cousins, and other athletes use their platform to glorify God.
6. Christian Music & Concerts
Music shapes culture, and Christian music can be a great tool to encourage faith.
Recommended Christian Artists:
- TobyMac
- For King & Country
- Lauren Daigle
- Casting Crowns
Attending Christian concerts with children and teens can be a powerful experience for strengthening faith.
7. Bible Memorization & Incentives
- Encouraging children to memorize scripture helps them store God’s Word in their hearts.
- One approach: Reward kids for memorizing Bible verses (Chris’s grandparents paid him a quarter per verse).
- Some families offer larger incentives—one father bought his son a car for memorizing and explaining a list of Bible passages.
8. GotQuestions.org – Biblical Answers for Tough Questions
A trusted resource for clear, biblical answers to questions about faith, parenting, and theology.
- Visit: GotQuestions.org
9. Books on Parenting & Discipleship
- Shepherding a Child’s Heart – Tedd Tripp (Biblical parenting principles).
- Raising Kingdom Kids – Tony Evans (Training children for a life of faith).
- The Tech-Wise Family – Andy Crouch (Raising kids with biblical values in a digital world).
Final Encouragement
Faith isn’t just taught—it’s caught. By using resources like RightNow Media, Sports Spectrum, Christian music, and intentional discipleship, we can actively pass faith to the next generation.
What resources have helped you grow in faith or disciple children? Share in the comments!
#FaithInAction #ParentingWithFaith #ChristianResources #NextGenerationFaith #RockwellChurch218
#FaithInAction #Discipleship #ChristianParenting #NextGenerationFaith #RockwellChurch218
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