[Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:6-7]

Introduction

A. In the NT, the word “generation” basically means “the sum total of those born at the same time, expanded to include all those living at a given time” (Arndt & Gingrich).

B. What sort of generation are we, and what sort will follow us here?

I. Will the next generation forget the Lord?

A. The generation after Joshua forgot (Joshua 24:31; Judges 2:1-5).

B. The generation after Hezekiah forgot (2 Kings 21:9; 22:8-13).

C. The generation that went into captivity forgot the Lord as well (Nehemiah 8; Ezra 9-10).

II. Will the next generation love the Lord and serve Him?

A. If we expect the next generation to love God, we must teach them to study (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14-15).

B. If we expect them to love God, they must be taught how to worship Him “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24).

C. If we expect them to love God, we must teach them how to love others (Luke 15:4-7; 1 Corinthians 12:26; Galatians 6:1; James 1:27).

D. If we expect them to love God, we must teach them respect (Ephesians 5:22; 6:1-2; Hebrews 12:5-11; 13:7).

E. If we expect the next generation to love the Lord, we must first show that we love Him ourselves.

Conclusion

A. While all children grow up to make their own decisions, we can make it easier for them to make the right choices (Proverbs 22:6).

B. As we look ahead, let us all strive to do more to assure that peace and truth in the Lord’s church will not die with this generation.

C. It only takes one generation to forget!