How can we ensure our spiritual lineage aligns with biblical teachings today? Family Records in the Rubble Nehemiah 7:61 “The following were those who came up from the towns of Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Kerub, Addon, and Immer, but they could not prove that their families were descended from Israel.” Why the Lost Paperwork Matters • In Jerusalem’s rebuilding season, belonging was verified by written lineage. • Without proof, service in the temple and share in the inheritance were barred (Nehemiah 7:64-65). • The scene foreshadows a deeper reality: spiritual belonging still requires clear evidence, though the proof now rests in Christ, not in parchment. God’s New Family Registry • John 1:12-13—birth from God, not merely from bloodlines. • Galatians 3:26-29—faith in Jesus makes people sons, daughters, and heirs with Abraham. • Romans 8:16—“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” Living Proof: Four Ongoing Practices 1. Daily Trust in Christ • Colossians 2:6—“Just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him.” • Salvation settles the family name; daily faith keeps the testimony vibrant. 2. Obedient Walk that Matches the Name • 2 Timothy 2:19—“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.” • 1 John 3:9-10—habitual righteousness serves as visible documentation that we belong. 3. Regular Self-Examination • 2 Corinthians 13:5—“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” • Spiritual inventory, confession, and repentance keep the record current. 4. Intentional Transfer to the Next Generation • Deuteronomy 6:6-7—teach God’s words diligently at home. • 2 Timothy 2:2—entrust truth to reliable people who will teach others also. • A living lineage thrives when Scripture is modeled, memorized, and multiplied. Guardrails to Protect the Lineage • Hold fast to sound doctrine (Titus 2:1). • Stay planted in a Bible-preaching church (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Engage in fellowship and accountability that corrects drift (James 5:19-20). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly, proclaiming His death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). Assurance When Records Feel Fragile • Psalm 87:6—“The LORD will record, when He registers the peoples, ‘This one was born there.’ ” • Revelation 20:12—names written in the Book of Life stand secure. • Isaiah 44:5—“Another will write on his hand, ‘Belonging to the LORD.’ ” Into the Future with Confidence Standing on the finished work of Christ, walking in obedience, examining the heart, and discipling the next generation ensure that our spiritual lineage lines up with biblical teaching. The divine registry cannot be lost, and its evidence shines through a life anchored in Scripture and guided by the Spirit. |
    |