By Pastor Gordon Godfrey | Marcus Pointe Baptist Church
Let’s start with this truth: you can’t inherit salvation. You aren’t saved because your mom or grandma had faith. But you can be influenced—deeply and powerfully—by their lives. Faith in Christ is a personal decision, but a godly legacy can echo through generations.
A Sin Nature Is Inherited… But Salvation Isn’t
Romans 5:12 tells us we inherit our sin nature from Adam, the first man. His disobedience passed the curse of sin onto all humanity—yes, all of us. But spiritual rebirth? That doesn’t come through bloodline. That comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Jesus said in John 3:3, “Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
You must choose Him for yourself. Salvation is not transferable by family tree—it is only received by faith.
The Faith of a Mother and Grandmother
In 2 Timothy 1:1–6, the Apostle Paul writes to a young pastor named Timothy. And in this passage, we’re introduced to two powerful influences in Timothy’s life: his mother Eunice and his grandmother Lois.
Paul commends their unfeigned faith—a faith that was real, consistent, and lived out. It wasn’t just for Sundays. It wasn’t performative. It was authentic.
That kind of faith leaves a mark.
Eunice and Lois couldn’t save Timothy—but their lives prepared him to hear and receive God’s call. Timothy eventually became a ministry partner with Paul, a pastor, and a spiritual leader to many. Their legacy shaped not just one man, but an entire generation of believers.
My Story: Called to Ministry
I got saved when I was 15. A year later, a youth pastor saw something in me I didn’t even see in myself. He got me involved in ministry, had me lead worship, share my testimony, even preach to the student group.
At 16, I felt God calling me into full-time ministry at a youth camp in Alabama. I said, “God, I’ll do whatever You want me to do.” And I’ve been serving in ministry for over 40 years now.
Why?
Because someone influenced me. Someone believed in me. Someone walked with me and showed me what it meant to follow Jesus.
Three Truths About a Mother’s Faith
Here are three key takeaways from today’s message:
1. A Mother’s Faith Can Shape Generations
Faith isn’t genetic, but it can be generational.
Eunice and Lois shaped Timothy, and their legacy is still talked about today—thousands of years later! Don’t underestimate the long-term impact of your everyday faith.
2. A Mother’s Faith Must Be Personal Before It Can Be Passed On
You can’t give away what you don’t have. If you’ve never made a personal decision to follow Christ, today is the day. Your children and grandchildren are watching. Let them see what a real relationship with Jesus looks like.
3. A Mother’s Faith Should Never Exist Alone
Christianity was never meant to be lived in isolation. Eunice and Lois lived out their faith in community, influencing not only Timothy but others around them. Get connected. Join a small group. Share your story. Let your light shine!
Influence Goes Further Than You Think
You might not make headlines, but if you’re making disciples, you’re doing what matters most.
Whether you're a stay-at-home mom, a single mom, a working mom—or even a dad, grandparent, or mentor—your influence matters. God has given you a circle of people to impact for His glory.
Just like two deacons once came to my home and led my parents to Christ, your faithfulness might be the spark that lights a spiritual legacy for generations to come.
Final Word
Remember: It’s not about genetics—but it is about generations.
Your calling might not be to stand on a stage, but it is to stand strong in faith.
Be real. Be faithful. Be available. And trust God to multiply your influence.
You never know—you might have a Timothy in your life right now.
