The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3, KJV)

The Apostle Paul addressed the Father above using two related but distinct Titles or Names we use to call the Father. He says “the God” and “Father” of our Lord Jesus Christ. These two names ( neither of which is the Father’s proper Name) are used synonymously, but they are very different. Jesus used both to address the Father. He called the Father “My God” but most times “My Father.”

God and Father are two dimensions of God’s relationship with us. The distinct Names and Titles of God in the Old Testament help bring out this differential relationship. He is the Elohim, Creator of heaven and earth including all human beings, whether they acknowledge Him or not. He is the Creator of all. He relates to all humans as God, Creator and Sovereign. But He became the God of Israel, and Israel became His people. In this special relationship, He revealed His Name Jehovah( or Yahweh) when He entered into Covenant with the nation of Israel. He related to Israel mainly as the God of Israel, not principally as a Father though He revealed Himself to them as such.

The believer in Christ has a distinct relationship with God. Yes, the Lord is still our God, but He is far more than that. He is our Father. The God-man and Father-child relationship have very different dynamics. Many believers still relate to the Father solely as their God. Most are still to know Him as Father. The most significant relationship in God’s mind is that of family, not Master-servants or just God-creatures relationship. He is more than your God. He is your Father.

MEDITATE

What is the difference in the way your boss at work relates to you and how your father or mother relates to you at home? How is your perception of God’s relationship with you? Is it more of a God-creation or Father-child relationship?

APPLY THE WORD

What are some of the responsibilities that define the father role? Is God conscious of the implications of calling Himself “Father”? More importantly, are you conscious of the privileges and the status of being called a child of God? He longs to hear you call Him “Abba, Father” and see you believe what you are saying!