In what ways can we ensure our spiritual lineage aligns with biblical teachings today? A snapshot of Ezra 2:62 “These searched for their family records, but they could not find them, and so they were disqualified from the priesthood.” The returning exiles could claim priestly ministry only if their names appeared in the genealogical scroll. No record, no priesthood. Today, our “family record” is validated by the new birth in Christ and a life that echoes Scripture. Start with verified ancestry – the written Word • Scripture is our spiritual birth certificate. • 2 Timothy 2:15 — “Make every effort to present yourself approved to God… accurately handles the word of truth.” • Salvation by grace through faith places us in God’s household. • Ephesians 2:19 — “…fellow citizens of the saints and members of God’s household.” • Practical step: build a habit of daily reading, letting the text define identity instead of culture, feelings, or trends. Cultivate daily family resemblance • Remain in close fellowship with Christ. • John 15:4 — “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” • Pursue holiness that mirrors our Father’s character. • 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14. • Measure decisions by “Does this look like Jesus?” before acting, speaking, posting, or purchasing. Guard the priestly calling in community • The exiles needed public records; believers need a local church. • Benefits of committed membership: • Sound teaching that keeps doctrine pure. • Accountability from elders and friends who know our story. • Opportunities to serve, confirming gifts and growth. Pass the legacy forward • Train the next generation intentionally. • Proverbs 22:6; Psalm 78:5-7. • Share testimonies at the dinner table, not just in the sanctuary. • Embed Scripture in life-events—birthdays, graduations, weddings—so family history is inseparable from God’s story. Stay alert against spiritual identity theft • False teaching can erase clear lineage. Test every message (Acts 17:11). • Persistent, unrepentant sin blurs the family likeness (1 John 3:9-10). Confess quickly, restore fellowship. • Avoid syncretism—mixing biblical faith with opposing worldviews—by comparing everything to the written record. When the roll is called Because our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 21:27), we serve confidently today. Keeping our “papers” in order—anchored in Scripture, living like family, engaging in church, and passing the heritage on—ensures our spiritual lineage stays unmistakably aligned with biblical truth. |
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