Legacy is an idea that resonates deeply across generations. Whether it’s through nurturing a family farm, building a business, passing down cherished recipes, or planting trees for future generations, people long to leave something meaningful behind. But as Christians, our greatest legacy is the spiritual impact we leave on others, the multiplication of faith.
When I lived in a farming community, I saw firsthand how legacy could be tied to the land. Families would clear rocks, lay drain tiles, and improve their fields so that their children and grandchildren could continue to farm. It wasn’t just about property; it was about passing down values, hard work, and a way of life. Similarly, spiritual legacy is about investing in the lives of others so they can carry forward what matters most: faith in Christ.
While pastoring in Iowa, I met a family whose farm beautifully reflected the idea of generational legacy. The parents and their children lived in the main house, while the grandparents resided in a smaller home down the hill. It was understood that as the grandparents aged and either passed away or moved into a care facility, one of the children would grow up, get married, and take over the farm. They would then raise their own family in the main house, while the aging parents moved into what had been the grandparents’ house. This seamless transition of roles and responsibilities illustrated a heartfelt commitment to preserving and investing in the future. Just as this family cared for their farm, we are called to care for our spiritual fields and pass on our faith to the next generation.
In Matthew 28:18-20, often called the Great Commission, Jesus gives His disciples a clear mandate: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This mission isn’t just for pastors or missionaries—it’s for every believer. Jesus calls us to make disciples who make disciples, creating a ripple effect of faith that spreads far beyond our immediate reach. But what does this look like practically? It begins with being intentional. As you go about your day, whether at work, the store, or your child’s baseball game, ask God to open doors for gospel conversations. Sometimes, all it takes is showing genuine care, asking a question, or offering to pray for someone to spark spiritual dialogue.
When my grandson visits, we use these moments to build faith. When he was younger, we would watch Bible Man on RightNow Media. Now that he’s older, we’ve moved on to faith-based movies like Facing the Giants and Woodlawn. After each movie, we talk about its themes and how they relate to real-life faith. It’s not complicated, but it’s meaningful, and it helps him see how faith shapes our choices and challenges.
Discipleship starts at home. Parents have a unique opportunity to shape their children’s faith by modeling Christ-like living, sharing personal stories of God’s faithfulness, and intentionally teaching biblical truths. Deuteronomy 6:5-9 encourages us to make God’s Word a central part of our daily lives: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Use everyday moments like car rides, meals, or bedtime to engage in conversations about faith. If you’re a grandparent, neighbor, coworker, or friend, consider how your example and encouragement could influence others to grow spiritually.
One of the biggest hurdles to discipleship is simply showing up. Life gets busy, doubts creep in, and we often feel unqualified. Yet, as Acts 1:8 reminds us, the Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses for Christ: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Faithfulness in discipleship often involves stepping out in obedience, even when it’s uncomfortable. Like a turbo kicking in a car, the Holy Spirit strengthens us as we rely on Him. Many times, when I’ve stepped out in faith, unsure of what to say, God has given me the words and wisdom I needed. The key is to trust Him and take the first step.
Discipleship doesn’t require elaborate programs or perfect knowledge. It’s about intentionally investing in others with the resources you have. Here are some practical tools to get started:
- Understanding the Gospel: Help others grasp the essentials of salvation and how to articulate their faith.
- Prayer: Teach the importance of prayer through models like the Lord’s Prayer or the ACTS formula (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
- Bible Study: Equip others to read, interpret, and apply Scripture using study guides or resources like RightNow Media.
- Living by the Spirit: Help them understand the Spirit’s role in guidance and growth.
- Obedience to Christ: Teach them to follow Jesus’ commands and grow in holiness.
- Sharing Faith: Encourage confidence in sharing their testimony and the gospel.
- Serving Others: Highlight the importance of spiritual gifts and serving in the local church.
- Enduring Trials: Show how to trust God in difficult times and resist temptation.
- Stewardship: Teach biblical principles for managing time, talents, and treasures.
- Multiplying Disciples: Equip them to disciple others, emphasizing spiritual multiplication.
Discipleship bears fruit that lasts into eternity. Whether through mentoring a new believer, teaching children, or leading a Bible study, your investment in others’ faith makes an eternal difference. Paul modeled this principle in 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” Paul invested deeply in Timothy, who then discipled others. This chain of spiritual mentorship continues to this day. Who can you invest in? Who might benefit from your example, encouragement, or guidance? One of my mentors, Dr. Peter West, had a structured approach to discipleship. He focused his time on men who were fully committed to learning and growing so they could disciple others. The wisdom he shared during our conversations shaped my ministry in powerful ways. His intentional investment in others left a legacy that continues to impact lives.
While financial investments and health are important, the most significant impact you can make is a spiritual one. Jesus said in John 15:16: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” Discipleship is more than a task—it’s a way of life. By investing in others, you’re not only leaving a legacy but also fulfilling your God-given mission. What steps will you take this week to multiply your faith? Start where you are, trust the Holy Spirit, and watch God use your obedience to make a lasting impact.
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