Beyond Ourselves: A Multigenerational Vision of Christian Discipleship
Midweek Devotional
A Renewed Vision
I recently experienced what can only be referred to as an unexpected epiphany that washed over me. It was as if scales had fallen from my eyes, revealing a truth I had long known, and even pursued, but somehow forgotten. The words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer echoed in my mind: “A righteous man lives for the next generation.”
This simple yet profound statement ignited a spark within me, rekindling a passion I had unknowingly let smolder. As a pastor I’ve always been committed to sharing the Gospel and nurturing disciples. But somewhere along the way, I had lost sight of the grander vision - the multigenerational impact of our faith. I would ask you to pray for God to give you eyes to see and ears to hear what I’m going to describe.
The Long View of Discipleship
In our fast-paced world of instant gratification, it’s easy to become myopic, focusing solely on immediate results, and getting caught up only in the present. But true discipleship, I realized, requires a much longer view, a much grander view. It’s not just about the here and now; it’s about sowing seeds that may not bloom for generations.
This concept isn’t new. In fact, it’s woven throughout Scripture. Abraham was promised descendants as numerous as the stars, a promise that extended far beyond his own lifetime. Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, knowing he would never enter the Promised Land himself. Jesus invested deeply in twelve disciples, knowing they would carry his message to the ends of the earth long after his ascension.
A Civilization’s Soul
As I pondered this renewed perspective, I was struck by its implications not just for individual souls, but for the very fabric of our civilization. This vision of discipleship isn’t merely about personal salvation—though that remains paramount. It’s about shaping the moral, ethical, and spiritual foundations of society for generations to come.
In the words of George Grant, paraphrasing Gerard Groote, we must be “willing to live and die in obscurity, so long as the gospel and Christian worldview is passed down from one generation to the next.” This selfless dedication to future generations embodies Christ’s call to deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily, and follow him (Luke 9:23).
The Eschatological Horizon
My contemplation led me to an often-neglected aspect of theology, at least in my life: eschatology. I realized that my understanding of “last things” had been too narrow, focused primarily on individual salvation and the afterlife. But a robust eschatology encompasses so much more—it’s about God’s ultimate plan for all of creation.
This expanded view of eschatology doesn’t diminish the importance of personal salvation or present-day good works. Rather, it places them within a grander narrative - one that spans generations and culminates in God being “all in all” (1 Corinthians 15:28). It’s a vision that sees every sphere of life and every generation of history as an opportunity to exalt and glorify God.
A Thousand Generations
I was reminded of the blessing I used to give my children that always concluded with these words: “...to you and your children and your children’s children for a thousand generations.” These words took on new significance as I considered their far-reaching implications. Our faith isn’t just for us - it’s a precious inheritance to be carefully tended and passed down through the ages.
This multigenerational perspective changes how we approach discipleship. It calls us to:
1. Invest deeply in the next generation, recognizing that our impact may (ought to) extend far beyond our lifetimes.
2. Cultivate a long-term vision for our families, churches, and communities.
3. Prioritize the teaching and modeling of timeless biblical truths - a total world and life view.
4. Develop resources and institutions that will outlast us.
5. Pray fervently for future generations, entrusting them to God’s care.
Walking Forward
As I close this journal entry, I feel both humbled and invigorated. The task before us is immense, but so is the promise of God’s faithfulness. We’re called to be faithful stewards, tending the garden of faith for those who will come after us.
Therefore, let’s walk forward with renewed purpose, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). May we live and serve in such a way that the light of Christ shines brightly not just in our time, but for generations to come.
As we continue our journey of walking with Christ, let’s remember that each step we take isn’t just for ourselves—it’s paving the way for many others who will follow in our footsteps. May we walk wisely, faithfully, and with an eternal perspective, always seeking to glorify God and nurture disciples who will carry the torch of faith long after we’re gone. Thanks be to God.