Father
“Father, possibly related to showing kindness”
Summary
A term denoting not only one's male parent but also ancestors, founders, originators, respected leaders, and supremely God Himself as revealed by Jesus Christ.
☩Parental Authority
The position and authority of the father as head of the family is expressly assumed and sanctioned in Scripture as a likeness of that of the Almighty over His creatures. The father in the Hebrew family had supreme rights: he could arrange marriages, and his blessing or curse was regarded as conferring special benefit or injury. The command to honor parents bears a distinct promise, and disrespect was condemned as among the worst crimes. Children remained under the father's roof and authority even as adults.
☩Extended Uses
The term applies to any ancestor near or remote, as Abraham is 'father' of the Jews. Founders of tribes, rebuilders of cities, and originators of arts were called fathers. It was a title of respect for heads, rulers, prophets, and priests. The author or source of anything is called its father—thus Jabal was 'the father of those who dwell in tents,' and the devil is called the father of lies. One who exhibits fatherly care is a 'father to the fatherless.'
☩God as Father
God is not revealed as Father in the Old Testament except as Creator and preserver. It was reserved for Jesus to make God known as Father, constantly speaking to His disciples of 'your Father in heaven.' After the resurrection, Jesus declared 'I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God,' bringing believers into the same relationship with God that He enjoyed. Jesus forbade using 'Father' as a religious title of honor, condemning the praise-seeking spirit.
Related Verses1471 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Father," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Father," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. II (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Father," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).