The Body of Christ

October 03, 2022

The Body of Christ

By Katie Pearson

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” 2 Timothy 1:5

How beautiful that Timothy’s mother and grandmother are referred to in the Pastoral Letters. While a legacy of faith doesn’t guarantee salvation, it can certainly have an impact. Even though Timothy’s father was Greek, the women in his family believed in the one true God, and Timothy was eternally impacted. Countless other souls came to know Jesus through Timothy’s ministry, and the Gospel he preached is still changing our world today!

What will be your spiritual legacy? Who in your circle of influence is struggling, with no one else to turn to? You have a treasured possession to share with them. Your investment in one individual could start a fire that changes hundreds of lives. Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after just one lost sheep. Who is God calling you to bring home to the family of God?

Ministering to our families can be the most challenging leadership position and yet the most powerful. Billy Graham said, “The greatest legacy we can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.” (Charles River Editors, American Legends: The Life of Billy Graham). My mother often retells her grandmother’s hardships surviving three husbands in her years as a pioneer homesteading in Montana. But my mother speaks most often about her Nana’s deep love for Jesus. My great-grandmother never ran a company, lived in a beautiful home, or had many friends. However, Nana had an unwavering faith that God used to change generations of women in her family. My adult daughters never knew her, but I love to ponder how her legacy indirectly touches their lives and inspires their faith today.

Paul teaches that our most important role in the kingdom is our corporate calling, or obligation to care for the needs of fellow believers, starting with our family members. Even if you are gifted in teaching, preaching, or writing, don’t ignore the spiritual needs closest to home. The word “corporate” comes from the Latin word corporal, or body. We are all members of Christ’s body, equally essential and completely dependent on one another.

Reflection: Lord, give me the courage to take off my leadership mask at home and simply be your faithful servant. More than anything, I want my loved ones to see my dependence on you for wisdom, patience, and even faith. I pray that my example inspires trust over greatness and love over accomplishments. May my legacy celebrate the joy of a life devoted to you.

Where do you need God to stretch you today? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

In our six-week small group Bible study on the book of 1 John, you are invited to live and celebrate true life in Christ. Throughout his first letter, John wrestles with the assurance of salvation. How do we know that we are genuine Christians, and how can we recognize authentic faith in others? The Apostle John taught that you can enjoy full assurance through believing in the incarnate Son of God, walking in the light of obedience, and loving God and his children. Embark on this study with us today!