Empowered Mothers: The Foundation of Faith and Discipleship
Summary
The reading from Proverbs 31 paints a vivid picture of a woman whose strength, wisdom, and faithfulness are the foundation of her household. This image is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for many, especially for those who have grown up in homes where mothers have carried the weight of both parents. Reflecting on my own upbringing in a single-mother household, I recognize the profound impact that strong, faithful women have had—not just on their families, but on entire communities. These women, often overlooked or misunderstood, have modeled resilience, sacrificial love, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
At Crossings Community Church, our vision is simple: guiding people to find and follow Jesus. This vision is rooted in the belief that every person is made in God’s image and is deeply loved by Him. Our mission is not limited to those who look, think, or live like us; it extends to everyone, including those with whom we may disagree or struggle to understand. We are called to step outside our Christian bubbles, build genuine relationships, and point all people to Jesus—not by affirming everything they do, but by loving them as Christ loves us.
Discipleship is at the heart of this vision. It begins with authentic relationships in our everyday domains—our homes, workplaces, and communities. We are to show real concern, model the Christian life, seek opportunities for gospel conversations, and invite others into the life of the church. Success is not measured by numbers or programs, but by multiplication: when those we disciple begin to disciple others, and when our church grows to the point of planting new congregations.
Mothers are uniquely positioned at the foundation of this vision. Scripture shows us, through examples like Timothy’s mother and grandmother, that generational faith is often passed down through the faithful teaching and example of women. Mothers are typically our first theologians, teaching us not just Bible stories, but how to live out faith in the everyday. They are the first to disciple us, modeling Christ’s love and truth in the rhythms of daily life. This is not to diminish the role of fathers or men, but to recognize the unique influence mothers have, especially in the formative years.
Ultimately, the call is for all of us—parents, children, singles, and families—to live out our faith authentically, to disciple those around us, and to trust that God will use our imperfect efforts to build His kingdom. The legacy of faith begins at home, often on the knees of a praying mother, and extends outward as we guide others to find and follow Jesus.
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Key Takeaways
- The Power of Generational Faith: The faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother laid the foundation for his ministry and even for the writing of two books of the Bible. Generational faith is not accidental; it is the result of intentional teaching, prayer, and example. The legacy of a faithful parent or grandparent can ripple through generations, shaping not only families but the church and the world. [22:19]
- Discipleship Begins at Home: The most profound discipleship happens in the context of everyday life, especially within the family. Mothers (and fathers) are called to teach, model, and discuss the truths of God as part of daily routines—when sitting, walking, rising, and lying down. This ordinary, persistent investment is the primary way faith is formed and passed on. [32:51]
- Authentic Relationships Over Programs: While outreach programs and events have their place, the most effective way to share the gospel is through genuine relationships. When we truly care for people, invest in their lives, and model Christ to them, we earn the right to speak into their spiritual journey. Authenticity and love open doors that strategies and events cannot. [12:23]
- Multiplication, Not Just Addition: True success in the Christian life and in the church is not just about adding more people, but about multiplication—disciples making disciples. When those we invest in begin to invest in others, the impact grows exponentially. This principle applies both to our families and to the broader mission of the church. [17:15]
- Imperfect Faithfulness is Enough: God does not require perfect parents or perfect Christians—He uses flawed, struggling people who are willing to live out their faith honestly. Children are deeply shaped by seeing real faith, including repentance and perseverance, in their parents. The call is not to perfection, but to authentic, persistent faithfulness, trusting God with the results. [38:28]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:24] - Proverbs 31: The Portrait of an Excellent Woman
[03:05] - The Importance of Mothers: Personal Reflections
[07:03] - Vision of Crossings Community Church
[08:23] - Why We Guide People to Jesus
[11:20] - The Biblical Pattern of Discipleship
[12:51] - The Power of Genuine Relationships
[14:26] - Modeling the Christian Life
[15:18] - Gospel Conversations and Invitations
[16:27] - Multiplication: The Mark of Success
[18:07] - Church Growth Philosophy and Church Planting
[20:06] - Mothers as the Foundation of the Vision
[22:19] - Generational Faith: Timothy’s Story
[25:13] - Mothers as Our First Theologians
[31:32] - Mothers as First Disciples
[35:04] - Discipleship and the Church’s Vision
[38:28] - The Power of Imperfect Faithfulness
[41:43] - Responding to the Call: Who Are You Discipling?
[43:44] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
- Proverbs 31:10-31
- 2 Timothy 1:1-7
- Deuteronomy 6:1-9
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### Observation Questions
1. In Proverbs 31:10-31, what are some specific qualities and actions that describe the “excellent woman”?
2. According to 2 Timothy 1:5, whose faith does Paul say first lived in Timothy before it lived in him?
3. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, when are parents instructed to teach God’s commands to their children?
4. The sermon mentions that the faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother laid the foundation for his ministry. What impact did their faith have, according to the pastor? [24:24]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Proverbs 31 highlights both the practical and spiritual qualities of the woman described? How might these qualities impact a household or community?
2. The pastor shared that Timothy’s faith was rooted in the faith of his mother and grandmother. What does this suggest about the power of generational faith and spiritual legacy? [22:19]
3. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 talks about teaching children “when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” What does this say about the role of everyday life in discipleship?
4. The sermon emphasized that God uses imperfect parents and Christians. How does seeing faith lived out honestly, including repentance and perseverance, shape the next generation? [38:28]
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### Application Questions
1. The pastor shared personal stories about being raised by a single mother and the impact of her faith. Who has been a spiritual influence in your life, and what specific things did they do that shaped your faith? [03:05]
2. Proverbs 31 describes a woman who is strong, wise, and faithful. Think about your own household or upbringing—what are some ways you have seen these qualities lived out, either by mothers or others?
3. The sermon said, “Discipleship begins at home.” What are some practical ways you can model and talk about faith in your daily routines with your family or those close to you? [32:51]
4. The pastor challenged the church to build genuine relationships outside the “Christian bubble.” Who in your life right now could you reach out to with authentic care, even if they are different from you? What would that look like this week? [10:31]
5. The church’s vision is “guiding people to find and follow Jesus.” What is one step you can take this month to intentionally point someone toward Jesus, either through conversation, invitation, or example?
6. The sermon talked about “multiplication, not just addition”—disciples making disciples. Is there someone you are currently discipling, or could begin to disciple? What would be your next step with them? [17:15]
7. The pastor said, “Imperfect faithfulness is enough.” Is there an area where you feel like you’re falling short as a parent, friend, or Christian? How can you trust God to use your imperfect efforts for His purposes? [38:28]
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Devotional
Day 1: Generational Faith: The Legacy of Mothers and Grandmothers
The faith we inherit often begins with the quiet, steadfast devotion of mothers and grandmothers who plant seeds of belief that grow into a lasting legacy. Their prayers, teachings, and example lay a foundation that can shape not only their children but entire communities and even generations to come. Consider how the faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother became the bedrock for his own ministry, reminding us that the influence of a godly woman can echo far beyond her own lifetime. [24:24]
2 Timothy 1:3-7 (ESV)
I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Reflection: Who in your family or community has passed down faith to you, and how can you honor or continue their legacy today?
Day 2: Mothers as Our First Teachers of Wisdom and Kindness
From our earliest days, mothers are often our first teachers, imparting wisdom, kindness, and the foundational truths that shape our character and understanding of God. Their words and actions become the first theology we encounter, teaching us not only about right and wrong but about the love and grace of God. The example of the Proverbs 31 woman reminds us that the teaching of kindness and wisdom is a sacred calling, and that the influence of a mother’s instruction can be a blessing for generations. [25:13]
Proverbs 31:10-31 (ESV)
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens. She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle. She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet. She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant. Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
Reflection: What is one lesson of wisdom or kindness you learned from your mother or a mother figure, and how can you pass it on to someone else today?
Day 3: Discipleship Begins at Home
The call to disciple our children is woven into the very fabric of God’s commands, urging parents to teach, model, and discuss God’s truth in the everyday rhythms of life. Whether through formal instruction or the simple moments of daily living, mothers (and fathers) are given the privilege and responsibility to shape the hearts and minds of the next generation. The words of Deuteronomy remind us that discipleship is not a program but a way of life, lived out in the home and on the journey of life together. [32:51]
Deuteronomy 6:1-9 (ESV)
“Now this is the commandment—the statutes and the rules—that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you, that you may do them in the land to which you are going over, to possess it, that you may fear the Lord your God, you and your son and your son’s son, by keeping all his statutes and his commandments, which I command you, all the days of your life, and that your days may be long. Hear therefore, O Israel, and be careful to do them, that it may go well with you, and that you may multiply greatly, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has promised you, in a land flowing with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally disciple someone in your household or sphere of influence today?
Day 4: Living Out Faith Authentically at Home
Children are most deeply shaped not by perfection, but by the authenticity of faith lived out in the home. When parents—especially mothers—model a genuine relationship with Jesus, their children are far more likely to embrace faith themselves, even if they wander for a season. The consistency of prayer, love, and honest faithfulness leaves an indelible mark, reminding us that our daily walk with God is the most powerful testimony we can offer to those closest to us. [38:28]
Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
Reflection: In what area of your life can you be more authentic about your faith at home, and how might that impact those who see you most?
Day 5: Guiding People to Find and Follow Jesus
The vision of the church is not about numbers or programs, but about guiding people—of every background and story—to find and follow Jesus through genuine relationships, compassion, and discipleship. Every believer is called to step outside their comfort zone, build real connections, and share the hope of Christ, trusting that multiplication and growth will come as lives are transformed. The foundation of this vision is laid by those who faithfully disciple others, beginning in the home and reaching out into the world. [41:43]
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Reflection: Who is one person outside your usual circle that you can begin building a genuine relationship with, for the purpose of pointing them to Jesus?
Quotes
I was raised by a single mother in an environment where everybody I know was raised by a single mother. The low-income housing projects where I grew up, um I there were no two family homes whatsoever. Um, and even outside of those projects and just the the greater side of town that I lived on the east side, um, I didn't know anybody all of grade school, middle school, and and most of um, high school that had a two parent home. Matter of fact, my first introduction to somebody having a two parent home was in high school. [00:03:11]
I say all this to say that I was raised by a strong woman who had to be both my mother and my father. Um, and I come from a community of strong women that I believe are are often misunderstood and misprayed by the media and and and misprayed by um movies and and I I I I often think of the the very strong women that were raising their kids in the projects and doing the best they knew. knew how to do in the situation they found uh themselves today. [00:06:08]
But we want for everybody to know and to understand what it is. Um, and that's because I would argue that our vision at the Crossings Community Church is nothing newer or groundbreaking, but it is simply the foundation um for Christian living. And this is our vision statement. We are guiding people to find and follow Jesus. Simple enough, right? Um we should set ourselves up both individually and as a church to help guide the lost to and and the questioning to the source of truth and the answer to all of life's big questions. That's Jesus. [00:07:47]
We believe that every human being is made in God's image and loved by him. So, here's what we're doing as a church. We are trying to guide people to Jesus because we believe every human being is made in God's image and deserving of a relationship with him. God desires to have a relationship with all of his creation. So knowing that we have a burning desire to see everybody come to know Jesus. That means not just our friends. That means not just our family, but that means our neighbors. [00:08:47]
We're not saying that we have to agree with everything that they're doing. We're not saying we have to affirm everything that they're doing. What we are saying though is we don't stay in our little Christian bubble and say, "Well, listen, I'm only going to hang out with my Christian friends and my Christian place doing Christian things and um I'm going to let all the rest of them just burn. They'll see when when when Jesus comes, they'll know what's real and what that that's not what we're doing. [00:10:20]
We establish genuine relationships with the people and organizations within our domains. What are our domains? Well, your domains are wherever you are at. Your job is a domain. Your household is a domain. Your friend groups are a domain. If you're a member of the Legion and you come out, you hang out here on uh Tuesday night, they uh swing dancing up here. I don't know what the Legion does. I'm sorry, Charlie. I know Charlie's looking at me going swing dance. I don't know what they do, but whatever they do, if you're here hanging out with the people at the Legion, that's your domain, right? [00:11:34]
We show genuine concern and compassion for those people in these new relationships, thus building trust and a right to speak into their lives. Now, listen, I am not against going and knocking on doors and handing out gospel tracks. That's how my mom got saved. And because my mom got saved, that's how my entire family now knows Jesus. Because one little old lady came to the projects on the east side of PBLO and started knocking on doors and with no fear. She didn't bring men with her. She didn't bring a gun with her. She brought a Bible and a handful of gospel traps and she started knocking on doors on the east side. [00:12:17]
But I am saying that it it is often time much better if I come and get to know Dylan and I hang out with Dylan a little bit. And maybe Dylan likes to to drink beer and watch UFC. I don't drink a whole lot of beer, but I do like UFC. Maybe me and Dylan hang out. We watch some UFC together. Or let's pick something that I don't like. Um, baseball, right? Man, what a boring sport. You're killing me with this baseball stuff. And it's even worse on TV. It t gets so long. But anyway, if Elte if the only way I can have a relationship with Elte is to hang out at his house and watch baseball, um, I'm going to do that. [00:13:44]
We model the Christian life to these people in these new relationship. We show them by deed, not just by word. Let me tell you how. This is how people get this twisted. People are like, "Well, I got to be in the bar to reach the drunks." That's true. What you don't have to do is be drunk with the drunks. That's not how that works. Now, you want to go to a bar, you want to talk to people, you want to have relationships, that's great. You don't go to the bar and get drunk with them to to show them Jesus. That's that's backwards, right? [00:14:29]
Well, as an individual, you are successful when you see multiplication in your life. What that means is that you have started talking to several people maybe at work, whatever, and you've started having a relationship with them and you're having a relationship because you genuinely love them and are concerned for them. And through that relationship um uh with four or five different people, one of them has come to know Jesus. And now that person is on fire for Jesus and that person is starting to make relationships with other people and that person is starting to disciple other people. [00:16:32]
You guys are here on the rock bottom base floor of what we're building, right? But we are only building this to about 200 people. This is never going to become a mega church. This is never going to become even a church of 400 or 500. And we have a very specific reason behind that philosophy. We believe that I know that when we get much past I have a hard time remembering people's names when it's more than 20 people. You get me more past 150 people. It's going to be hard for me to shepherd 150 people. [00:18:07]
So, so, how are mothers the foundation of this vision? Here's what I'm telling you. I believe that mothers the mothers in this room and this isn't to downplay you guys because I'm going to talk to you guys in a couple weeks and but I I'm I'm going to say that I believe that mothers are going to be the foundation of this vision and I will show you why. Point number one, mothers take generational faith. [00:19:59]
Timothy was building and leading the church based off of the foundation of faith that was given to him by his mother and his grandmother. He was a preacher that was only a preacher because of the years of hard work, prayer, and instruction given him by his grandmother and his mother. Think about it. They got saved. They heard Paul preach during his first missionary journey. So when when Paul first went out, his first missionary journey, he was preaching and uh Timothy's grandmother and mother heard Paul and they got sing. [00:23:10]
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat of the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praises her. And the chapter actually opens like this. If you go all the way back to the beginning of the chapter, it's Proverbs 3:11 and it says, "The words of King Lemule, an oracle that his mother taught him." So the entire chapter uh uh proverb, the entire Proverbs 31 is an oracle. [00:25:17]
Um today in this very room I am standing in this very room before you preaching today only because of my mother. Again most of you know my story. I was out in the streets. I was doing all kinds of debaucherous things. I was selling drugs. I was I was shooting at people. People were shooting at me. All of these things. But um my mother uh it was my mother who prayed with me without ceasing or prayed for me without ceasing. I should say she prayed with me a lot. But my mother prayed for me without ceasing. She prayed non-stop. [00:28:32]
Good godly mothers are the first to do this if for no other reason than they're the first and most influential caregivers. Um, and and listen, I can't stress this enough. I've been a youth pastor for more than a decade and a half. And I can tell you unequivocally that children will follow in their their parents' footsteps. Um, and if you as parents live out your your faith at home, if it's a true faith, you are far more likely to have children that will live out their faith as they grow. [00:36:50]
But my mom lived a life of following and loving Jesus on a regular basis with her whole heart with everything that was in her. And I saw that. So even as an adult when I as a teenager and as adult when I kept doing stupid things and I kept going the wrong direction the one thing I always knew is that it was wrong. I knew unequivocally what I was doing was wrong. And I knew it was wrong because my mom had shown me that it was. [00:38:21]
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