"Making disciples" is a responsibility that ensures the survival of the church by sharing the Truth with the next generation.

The people of Israel were exhorted: "Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations, ask your father, and he will show you; your elders, and they will tell you" (Deuteronomy 32:7). At an advanced age, King David prayed: "Now also when I am old and gray-headed, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare your strength to this generation, your power to everyone who is to come" (Psalm 71:18).

Sharing the Truth with the next generation is exemplified within the family. "And it shall be, when your children say to you, What do you mean by this service?" (Exodus 12:26, referring to the Passover). "So it shall be, when your son asks you in time to come, saying, What is this?" (Exodus 13:14, referring to the exodus from Egypt).

The Bible exhorts us to be ready to answer others about our beliefs: "Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear" (1 Peter 3:15).

Some in the church are to be entrusted to teach the next generation: "The things that you (Timothy) have hear from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2).

How well do we know the basic teachings of the Bible? For example, those things the author of Hebrews calls "elementary principles" – repentance from dead works, faith toward God, baptisms, the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment? If someone asks us about these basic beliefs (or other ones), can we give a clear biblical explanation?

If so, congratulations: we are able to share the Truth with the next generation!

If not, we have work to do so others will see the scripture fulfilled: "Ask . . . your elders, and they will tell you" (Deuteronomy 32:7).

With these thoughts I wish us all a rewarding Sabbath!