In this week’s episode, Dr. Jim Van Gelderen looks back on the unbroken chain of faith that shaped his life—from a praying grandmother to a courageous father to his own calling today. You’ll be stirred to recognize the believers who helped you believe God and to become the next link in that chain. Keep faith alive, and let your obedience inspire the generation that follows.
From Cleveland, TN, Dr. Jim Van Gelderen reflects on the powerful chain of faith that has stretched through his family for generations. Drawing from 2 Timothy 1:5, he traces how his grandmother’s prayer life and his father’s obedience shaped his own walk with God. In this heartfelt episode, you’ll be reminded that your faith didn’t start with you—and it doesn’t have to end with you. Be inspired to keep the chain unbroken and pass on a living, unfeigned faith to those who come after you.
Topics Discussed
- How God used Dr. Jim’s grandmother’s prayer life to shape his family’s story
- His father’s defining moment of obedience and courage
- The meaning and power of “unfeigned faith” in 2 Timothy 1:5
- The generational nature of spiritual influence
- Fighting unbelief and choosing to trust God
- How your faith today can influence lives you’ll never meet
Key Takeaways
- Faith is a living chain—someone’s faith brought you here; your faith will carry others forward.
- Gratitude honors those who came before you; obedience builds for those who come after.
- Every battle with unbelief is a chance to keep the chain of faith strong.
- You can be the link that connects another soul to the God of miracles.
If this episode encouraged you, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube Music. Your feedback helps others discover the Thee Generation and be challenged to live a life of total surrender to God.
Dr. Jim Van Gelderen is president of Minutemen Ministries, vice-president of Baptist College of Ministry, and evangelist out of Falls Baptist Church. He and his wife, Rhonda, travel the country in evangelism. They have three daughters.
