Introduction: Good morning! Today, we gather to celebrate and honor the wonderful gift of fatherhood. On this Father’s Day, let’s reflect on the profound love and guidance that fathers provide, and how our Abba Father sets the perfect example for us all. Our focus today will be on a passage from the book of Romans, chapter 8, verses 15 to 18. Please join me as we dive into the Word of God together.
I. The Spirit of Adoption: ABBA FATHER
Romans 8:15 says, “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!'” These words remind us that through our faith in Christ, we have been adopted into God’s family. Many of you might not know that I was adopted at the age of 4. This verse has a special meaning for me.
Being adopted into an earthly family is a very special event. The fact that parents love someone enough to make them a part of the family is awesome. It completely changed the course of history in my life. Just as a father lovingly embraces his children, our heavenly Father desires an intimate relationship with us. He longs for us to approach Him with the same trust, dependency, and endearing term “Abba.” This term carries with it the idea of intimacy and obedience. Only an obedient child has the right to use this title.
Today, let’s acknowledge the unique role fathers play in the lives of their children. A loving father is a reflection of God’s character, providing a safe haven, nurturing guidance, and unconditional love. Fathers, you have the remarkable opportunity to mirror our heavenly Father’s heart, leading your children to know and experience the love of God. It’s not only an opportunity, but also a responsibility and many fathers are shirking this responsibility in today’s society. I pray that this trend will change soon.
II. Co-heirs with Christ:
Continuing in Romans 8:17, the apostle Paul writes, “And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” These words reveal the incredible inheritance that awaits us as children of God. We are not mere beneficiaries but co-heirs with Christ. The provisional statement here needs to be addressed. This verse indicates that we are Co-heirs PROVIDED we suffer with Him. I don’t really see many Christians suffering with Jesus these days. Maybe that means that few will be glorified with Him!
Fathers, your role in the lives of your children extends far beyond earthly possessions. You have the privilege of guiding your children toward the ultimate inheritance—the inheritance of faith, character, and eternal life. As fathers, you have the power to shape their understanding of God. The power to prepare them to embrace their identity as co-heirs with Christ. We aren’t completing this task unless we prepare them to suffer. The social climate is fast moving toward a stronger dislike for anything Christian or Godly. Persecution is on the increase, and we will very soon have to suffer or denounce our Christianity. Are you ready?
III. The Groaning of Creation:
In verse 18, Paul acknowledges the brokenness of this world and the challenges we face: “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” As fathers, we are well aware of the trials and struggles our children encounter in their journey through life. We bear witness to the groaning of creation.
Yet, we find hope in knowing that the suffering we experience is temporary. Our heavenly Father promises a future glory that surpasses any present hardship. Fathers, our role is vital in teaching our children to endure, persevere, and find hope in the face of adversity. We must remind them of the ultimate redemption and restoration that awaits all believers. What a day that will be!
Conclusion:
Today, as we honor fathers, let us remember the immense responsibility and privilege entrusted to them, to us. Fathers, our love, guidance, and example shape the lives of our children in profound ways. As you reflect the heart of our heavenly Father, you have the opportunity to introduce your children to their eternal Abba—the loving and compassionate God who longs for an intimate relationship with them.
Let’s be grateful for the fathers among us and encourage them to embrace their divine calling. And for those who may have experienced broken relationships with their earthly fathers, let us remember that we have a heavenly Father who loves us perfectly and unconditionally.
May we all, fathers and children alike, draw closer to our Abba Father, rejoicing in the Spirit of adoption, embracing our identity as co-heirs with Christ, and finding hope in the midst of a groaning world.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of fatherhood and for being the perfect example of a loving Father. We pray for all fathers today, that we may be filled with wisdom, grace, and strength as we lead our families. Help us all to grow in our understanding of your love and to find comfort and hope in our identity as your children. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. May God bless all the fathers present today, and may His love shine through their lives as a beacon of hope and guidance for their children.
May God bless all the fathers present today, and may His love shine through their lives as a beacon of hope and guidance for their children.
