The Generation to Come
By Assistant Pastor Dr. Jaden Fitzpatrick | July 27, 2025
Open your Bibles to Psalm 78:1-7. Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: that the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: that they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. Let’s pray: Father, thank You for VBS, the souls saved, and Your faithfulness. Bless Terry Taylor, his family, and this message. Clothe me with Your calling. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
On July 27, 2025, Assistant Pastor Dr. Jaden Fitzpatrick, preaches from Psalm 78:1-7, reflecting on the recent Vacation Bible School (VBS) where 15 souls were saved and three baptized, including his son Remington. With a Doctorate in Theology from Antioch Baptist Seminary (May 2024) and over a decade of ministry experience, Dr. Fitzpatrick urges the church to invest in the next generation, drawing from his background in youth and children’s ministries. Citing the Red Sea (Exodus 14) and Jordan River crossings (Joshua 4), where God commanded memorials for future generations, he calls for investing, being intentional, and inclusive to ensure the church’s future. He outlines three things to show the generation to come: the praises of the Lord, His strength, and His wonderful works, so they may set their hope in God.
The Praises of the Lord
Psalm 78:4 instructs, We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord. Dr. Fitzpatrick emphasizes praising God openly with children, as Psalm 107:2 says, Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. VBS showcased God’s goodness—15 salvations, three baptisms, and kids singing joyfully. He shares how his son Remington, saved at VBS, boldly told his nephew, “I prayed and got it all figured out.” Dr. Fitzpatrick encourages writing down prayer requests for kids to see God’s answers, like crossing them off when prayers are fulfilled. Sharing stories of God’s faithfulness, like a family member attending VBS, plants seeds for faith. Praising God teaches kids to trust Him.
The Strength of the Lord
The church must show the next generation God’s strength, as Psalm 78:4 continues, and his strength. Dr. Fitzpatrick cites his friend with cancer, whose wife declares, “God is able,” trusting His omnipotence (Ephesians 3:20, He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask). VBS succeeded not by human effort but by God’s strength, despite exhaustion. He explains to kids that God’s timing is perfect, even when prayers seem unanswered, as He knows best. Teaching God’s strength helps children rely on Him, not themselves, ensuring they see His power in answered prayers and church efforts like VBS.
The Wonderful Works of the Lord
Finally, Psalm 78:4 urges showing his wonderful works that he hath done. Like the stones at Gilgal (Joshua 4:20-24), which reminded Israel of God’s deliverance, Dr. Fitzpatrick calls for sharing stories of God’s works with kids. VBS sparked joy and salvation, with kids opening up to share their hearts. He recounts investing in teens at camp and a boy named Sammy with spina bifida, included despite limitations, showing God’s love. Dr. Fitzpatrick warns that without investing in youth, the church risks having no future. By sharing God’s works—salvations, answered prayers, and changed lives—the church builds a legacy of faith for generations to come.