Ronald Reagan said, “Freedom… is never more than one generation away from extinction.”¹ Christians have extrapolated that truth to say, “The Church is never more than one generation away from extinction.” Whether we are parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, school teachers, or ministry volunteers, we have a common question burning in our hearts: How does our faith transfer from one person to another, generation to generation?

For our faith to live on after we die, it must exhibit certain qualities. Through the family of Timothy, the apostle Paul’s protégé, we discover at least four characteristics to emulate.

Model a Convincing Faith

I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5

Paul said Timothy’s “genuine” faith came from his mother and grandmother. The Greek word for “genuine” is found six times in the New Testament. James 3:17 renders the word “without hypocrisy.” Such faith is real, convincing, and deep.

If our faith is to blossom into the hearts of others, it needs to be without hypocrisy. We must prove our beliefs through our actions and sincerity.

We cannot impart a faith that we ourselves do not possess, and ultimately do not reflect.

• Read Deuteronomy 6:6–9. How could you apply this passage to your own relationships?

• Think about the word “diligently” in verse 7. What degree of diligence are you exercising as you mentor others?

• Can you draw a spiritual application for the “hand” and “eyes” in verse 8?

• What would be the spiritual advantage of having the Word of God posted on your doorpost and gate?

Model a Consistent Faith

Others learn about our faith by observing how we handle difficult situations. As they watch us navigate trials, they figure out whether or not we have a consistent faith. If we’re not careful, we can allow our faith to be fleeting rather than indwelling.

Paul said that Timothy’s genuine faith first “dwelt” in his grandmother Lois and in his mother Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5). Regardless of their circumstances, it inhabited their lives. Because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, we, too, can demonstrate His indwelling presence amid life’s challenges.

Using a concordance, conduct a word study for “dwell.”

• Make a list of all the Scripture references for that word.

• Look up each verse and write down the context of the word “dwell,” along with any thoughts you want to remember.

• If time permits, extend your list to include the derivatives of dwell: dweller, dwelling, dwells, dwelt.

• How does your study of the word “dwell” impact your impression of Lois and Eunice’s faith?