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Can you explain Fatherhood?


Introduction. Fatherhood (spiritually considered) is an often misunderstood concept. Let us consider what the scriptures teach regarding Fatherhood.

God the Father. The Godhead or state of being God consists of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 13: 14). Paul wrote thus to the saints at Rome: "...Grace to you and peace from God our Father..." (Rom. 1: 7). In a general sense, God is the Father of all men. God "made the world and all things therein," declared Paul to the Athenians (Acts 17: 24). God also made of "one blood all nations of men" (vs. 26). In this broad and general sense, God is the Father of all. This is what some mean by "Fatherhood." In this vein, God is the Benefactor of all men (Acts 17: 28).

God the Father in a special sense. Some have mistakenly concluded that since God is the Father of all in a comprehensive sense, then all men will be saved. Beloved, only a few will, in fact, be saved (Matt. 7: 13, 14). The expression "children of God" is used to denote a special and spiritual relationship between God and certain ones. Paul taught that when one appropriates God's grace, one becomes an adopted son (Rom. 8: 15, ff.). Hence, they become spiritual heirs of God (vs. vs. 17). Involved in being "children of God" and having God as "Father" in this special relationship are certain requirements. The child of God must "come out from among them and be separate...and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty" (2 Cor. 6: 17, 18).

Conclusion. All men have God as their Father in the sense of creation (Gen. 1: 26). However, only those who have believed, repented, confessed Christ's deity, and been baptized for the remission of sins have God as their spiritual Father (John 8: 24; Luke 13: 5; Rom. 10: 9, 10; Acts 2: 38).

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