Lord’s Day 46
Q120. Why did Christ tell us to call God "our Father"?
Right at the start of our prayer, Christ wants to fill our hearts with the childlike awe and trust that a child has for a parent. Through Christ, God has become our Father. And just as our parents give us what we need, even more will our Father in heaven give us what we ask for in faith.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Matthew 7:9–11
Luke 11:11–13
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Why did Jesus tell us to call God "our Father"?
- 2
What feelings does a good father want his children to have toward him?
- 3
How does it change your prayers to know that God is your Father through Christ?
Illustration
A child who falls and scrapes a knee runs to a parent, not to a stranger. The child knows the parent loves her and will help. When Jesus tells us to call God "Father," he is telling us we can run to God with that same confidence. God is not a distant stranger. Through Jesus, he is our Father.
Application
The next time you pray, start by saying "Father" and pause for a moment. Let that word sink in. Because Christ has made God your Father, you can come to him with the trust of a child who knows he is loved.