Second Generation Christians?
Recently I heard a respected, nationally know Christian leader refer to what he called –
“second generation Christians”. He defined them as people who know all the right things to say and do within the church framework because they grew up in church going families. Christian or christian?
As I thought about his comment, it is apparent to me that there really is no such thing as a second generation follower of Christ. But Jesus’ challenge to each of us is to die to ourselves daily and follow him.
Of course there is great value in a Godly heritage. I am grateful for my parents and for their parents and for the examples they lived in front of me and my siblings. But in the end, I must choose. I can not rely on my ability to live the right way or say the right words or even attend church. What will I do?
Christian or christian? Recently I spoke with a physician who attended medical school in Turkey, but was born in Iran. I asked him if he was a Muslim. He responded with, “I’m supposed to be.” He’s like many of the people who may respond in a similar way when asked if they are a Christian here in the States.
The book of Deuteronomy records Moses’ words as “…I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live…”
Deuteronomy 30:19 NIV
My choices have an impact on my family, but they must choose to “take up their cross and follow Him.”
Thirty years in the same church, raising my girls in the midst of all that old-time “holiness” puts into the picture…I am amazed that all three yet remain faithful in their walk, two still attending that same assembly even after I departed three decades down the road, and I do not regret being “planted” therein through all the ups and downs that go along with “community”. Yet I long ago learned that we all remain individuals, each of us single in our mindset, our growth in this, our relationship with Him. What counts, for me, is that the latter part be established in both my girls and and the grandchildren. Second generation, third generation…I trust in His faithfulness unto us.
Thanks Jim. Your perspective is helpful.