(Sixth part)
Memory verse (1Jn2: 13a) “ I write to you, fathers, because you have known Him who is from the beginning ”.
The Greek translation of the word father is “pater”. John noted one thing about spiritual fathers, they know the one who was from the beginning. Spiritual fathers have a deeper spiritual relationship with God. They know God not just mentally but intimately. This is what Daniel meant when he said that those who know their God shall be strong and they shall do great exploits (Dan11: 32). Spiritual fathers walk with God. They know the mind of God; they know the ways of God. The scripture says that God showed his works to the children of Israel but he revealed his ways to Moses (Ps 103:7). Spiritual fathers carry greater authority of God. The level of your spiritual maturity determines the level of authority God entrusts you with.
There are two categories of spiritual fathers: the apostolic fathers and those mature believers. Apostle Paul said of the Corinthians church that he was their spiritual father (1Cor4: 14-15). Those saints who have paid the price to work on their spiritual development to the father level are so vital in building God’s kingdom. Their wisdom, their understanding of God’s purpose, their sensitivity, their counsel and experience is a great asset to the upcoming generation. They see things God’s way. They think the thoughts of God and their behavior reflects God’s nature.
Such men and women have great treasure of experience in vast areas of life, experience in the word, in prayer, in ministry, in business, in marriage, in counseling, in leadership, in problem solving etc. We need fathers in God’s house. One of the greatest needs in the church today are fathers. We need Men and women who have walked with God. Those who will love, care, guide, correct, rebuke, and mentor the young generation of believers and leaders. All of us we need fathers in our lives to show us the way. We don’t need to keep falling in mistakes when there are those who have gone ahead of us. Tomorrow’s fathers are today’s sons. How will you father others when you have not been fathered? Fathers produce fathers and orphans produce orphans. We need fathers in God’s house to destroy the orphan sprit in the church of our day.
Nice journey to spiritual maturity!
