2 Timothy 1:5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.
Thirty years after Pentecost, Paul was able to reflect on the original saints and those who followed. Eunice and Lois were among those who saw the foundation of the early church. Timothy came afterward and was considered the second generation of the Apostolic age. In his exhortation to Timothy, Paul honored the elders, the mothers who labored for the cause.
Something was handed down to Timothy that cannot be fully explained. It was more than a testimony or an example. It was the root; the basis for the Church to come. Paul made mention of their perseverance which he called “unfeigned faith.” The description points to persecution or trial that they withstood. Those mothers held fast to the doctrine delivered by Jesus Christ and it became their strength. It became our heritage.
The pillars of the first church blessed all who would follow, even us today. The two disciples walking on the road to Emmaus, Cleopas and his wife, established something that the church world sees as a pattern. They were witnesses to the mystery and then recipients to the revelation. Silas saw the wonders of God move in the second half of the early church and so many more. They stood strong and gave their lives for something greater.
Our heritage is the Holy Ghost. The apostle called it that “Holy Spirit of promise”
Ephesians 1:14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
We honor our elders who have labored in the Lord; stayed faithful to the church; and exhibited unfeigned faith. They have kept the exclusivity of the doctrine and contended for the faith and embraced a standard of holiness. New Life is blessed to have elders who loved the Truth more than tradition. Our history is deepening and our resolve is rising. Tami and I honor all of you who have been loyal and consistent; who have lived a life worthy of following. Our children are blessed to have a witness before their eyes.