**THIS FUNCTIONAL FAMILY: A Generational Mentality**

In 1956, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, along with four missionaries, attempted to reach the Huaorani tribe in Ecuador. Though Jim and the others were killed, Elisabeth returned with her daughter, demonstrating a generational mentality—she believed her actions could impact future generations. Eventually, the tribe embraced Christ, and today, their descendants are pastors and missionaries. Many of us live for the present, but God calls us to think generationally.

Psalm 78:4, 6-7 (NLT): *"We will tell the next generation...so each generation might set its hope anew on God."* Families are not just dynamic institutions but spiritual legacies. As a church, we are called to instill hope, power, and faithfulness in future generations. Let’s explore a Generational Mentality—acknowledging both the present and future in God’s plan.

**Two Main Characteristics of Our Current Generation**

**We are a DIVERSE GENERATION** There are more generations alive today than ever before! - Silent, Boomer, X Generations: Slower-paced, shared faith, high trust, strong morality - Millennial, Gen Z: Frantic pace, faith at the margins, broken trust, moral tolerance

**We are a DISCONNECTED GENERATION**

Judges 17:6 (NLT): *"In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes."*

As culture changes, children must figure out their own values. Margaret Mead predicted a time when children will navigate values alone. As followers of Jesus, we must restore connections between generations.

**Benefits of Understanding Generational Differences**

- Effective communication, teamwork, and leadership

- Better recruitment and retention

- Shared values

Without a generational mentality, a church’s mission dies with the current generation. Nelson Henderson said, *"The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit."* A church with a generational mindset plants seeds for a harvest it may never see.

**Four Characteristics of a Church with a Generational Mentality**

1. **Prioritizes Discipleship and Spiritual Reproduction** - 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV): *"Entrust to reliable people who will teach others."* A generational church trains disciples who train others.

2. **Honors the Legacy of Faith** - 1 Corinthians 11:23 (NIV): *"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you..."* A church keeps the foundation of faith intact for future generations.

3. **Builds Structures for the Future** - Psalm 78:6 (NLT): *"So the next generation might know them..."* A church creates ministries and leadership programs that outlast current leadership. *The things we build for God should outlive us!*

4. **Strengthens Families to Carry Faith Forward** - Josh McDowell: *"Christianity is always one generation away from extinction."* A church equips families to carry on the faith.

**A Church with a Generational Mentality Answers Three Critical Questions for the Next Generation**

1. **What is Truth?** - John 18:37-38 (NIV): *"Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."* A church anchors youth in Scripture to withstand cultural shifts.

2. **Where Do I Belong?** - Psalm 68:6 (NIV): *"God sets the lonely in families..."* A church is a place of belonging and mentorship across generations.

3. **Does My Life Matter?** - Ephesians 2:10 (NLT): *"We are God’s masterpiece..."* A church affirms that every life has God-ordained purpose.

**How to Live Out a Generational Mentality**

- Teach the next generation—share faith stories with children and new believers.

- Disciple intentionally—invest in mentoring and training.

- Create future-focused ministries—empower young leaders by placing them in positions of responsibility.

- Live with a kingdom legacy in mind—make decisions that impact generations to come. Let us commit to building a legacy of faith that echoes through generations!