Dead Men do tell tales

Prov. 10:7 The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.

Dr. Arnold was the Headmaster of Rugby, the famous public school in England. Although he has been dead for over 165 years, the life and teaching of Dr. Thomas Arnold still influences me - through his life's example and his sermons. He left a legacy to his students, his family, and even to me - someone who has never even been to Rugby. I first became aware of him while reading Tom Brown's Schooldays, in which the author records with affection this man who taught so many the Christian faith.

In their book Raising Godly Children in an Ungodly world, Ken and Steve Ham argue persuasively that everyone leaves a legacy. The only question is what kind of legacy it will be.

So it could be:

Brian was a good rugby player, but he abandoned his kids when they were young.

Sally was popular with everybody, but died alone in her home.

My mum was an alcoholic.

Dad used to hit us.

But it would be a better legacy if it were:

My father taught me the importance of listening to God's word and showed me how to love the Lord with all my heart.

Mum taught me what real beauty is. (1 Peter 3)

Ken and Steve Ham argue that a godly legacy is built on the authority and sufficiency of the Bible.

A godly legacy begins with a decision, and may require waiting for answers to certain questions.

Leaving a legacy is important. Our children, grandchildren, and the world will be eternally impacted by it.

Jesus Christ left the world a wonderful legacy. Here is the one who can save people from their corrupt human nature, the one who can save people from the grave, and the one who can save people from God's judgement. A faithful Christian will leave a legacy that points people to HIM.

I urge all Christian readers of this post to make a decision today. Decide to leave for your friends and family the legacy of a godly man or woman; the legacy of a person who lived his life following the commandments of our Lord; the legacy of a Christian who loved God with all his heart and soul and mind and strength. For we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, who, although dead, still speak. (Heb 12:1-2) Thomas Arnold was one of them, and we can be too.

Heb. 13:7 Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith. (NASB)