Paul writes in 2 Timothy 2:1-2 about what I believe to be one of the weaknesses of the modern-day church…training leaders from the next generation. Paul gives Timothy clear instructions on what he is to do with the truths of Scripture: “…the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2:2). The concept of spiritual reproduction is simple, yet we somehow miss it. The pastor or spiritual leaders of the church are responsible to take the truth they have been given (from the Word of God) and teach it to others. Paul had taught Timothy the truths of Scripture and now Timothy was to teach others in the church at Ephesus who would in turn teach other men. This idea of coming to church every week, listening to the message, and walking away with no action is not what Paul intended. We should willingly receive the truths of Scripture, obey God’s commands, and then encourage others to obey Him also. If the current generation fails to challenge the next generation to obey God, eventually our society will become godless. Parents have a responsibility to pass on the truth to their children, pastors have a responsibility to pass on the truth to their congregation, men have a responsibility to pass on the truth to other men, women have a responsibility to pass on the truth to other women, and students have a responsibility to pass on the truth to their friends. The list could continue but you get the idea – God has given mature Christians the mandate to pass on the truth. Before you think this is just an exchange of information, let me also remind you that the truth must also be demonstrated in lifestyle. The truth of God’s word is just information until we do something with it. God did not mean for us to know all the facts and memorize a bunch of verses, but He intended that the way we think and act be changed. As you have been entrusted with the truth of Scripture, pass it on through instruction and demonstration. When we take this command seriously, it will change the generation to follow.
Dear God, use me to pass on the truth to the next generation.
