What Are You Passing Down
Shane Idleman challenges believers to intentionally pass down enduring spiritual legacies—promises of God, grace, humility, and moral uprightness—rather than temporary gifts or material things.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of passing down valuable teachings and qualities to the next generation. It discusses the significance of obedience, trust in God, and the need to lead into battle spiritually. The message also touches on the reality of hell and the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ, urging listeners to call upon His name for eternal life.
Sermon Outline
-
I. What Are You Passing Down?
- Material gifts are temporary and often discarded
- True legacy is spiritual and character-based
- Importance of passing down wisdom, grace, and humility
-
II. Passing Down the Promises of God
- Genealogy of Jesus confirms God's fulfilled promises
- Teach children to trust God's unchanging promises
- God's presence and power remain active today
-
III. The Example of Joseph and Mary
- Joseph's moral uprightness and protection of Mary
- Mary's virgin conception by the Holy Spirit
- Passing down good theology and character
-
IV. Practical Application for Families and Individuals
- Teach children to give and prioritize God
- Model grace in difficult relationships
- Encourage reliance on the Holy Spirit's power
Key Quotes
“What really matters is what we pass down that lasts, what we pass down to our children, our grandchildren, to others.” — Shane Idleman
“God is just one heartbeat away from saying, come back to me, child. Come back, I'm right there. He's never forsaking you.” — Shane Idleman
“Joseph was more concerned about protecting her reputation than his reputation. Moral uprightness.” — Shane Idleman
Application Points
- Intentionally teach and remind your children of God’s promises to build their hope and faith.
- Model grace and humility in your relationships, especially during challenging family gatherings.
- Prioritize God in your life and family traditions to pass down a lasting spiritual legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Shane emphasize passing down promises instead of material gifts?
Because material gifts are temporary and often discarded, while spiritual promises and character traits have lasting impact on future generations.
What promises of God should parents remind their children of?
Promises like God’s protection, never forsaking His children, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and salvation for all who call on His name.
How does Joseph’s example apply to modern relationships?
Joseph’s concern for protecting Mary’s reputation over his own teaches moral uprightness and selflessness that can restore and strengthen marriages.
What role does grace and humility play during the holiday season?
Grace and humility help manage difficult relationships and model Christ’s love, especially when tensions and gossip tend to rise.
Is it necessary to be knowledgeable to pass down the promises of God?
No, even if you feel inadequate, you can still share God’s promises and plant seeds of faith that the Holy Spirit can nurture.