Pt. 11 God's Design For Fatherhood

the fam
Pt. 11 God’s Design For Fatherhood
1 Thessalonians 2:9-12

Fathers are to be EXAMPLES

Of GOD
God is known as a ‘Father’ and has designed fatherhood to emulate Him. The behavior Paul showed to those he spent the most time with was characterized as ‘holy, righteous, and blameless (Gr. amemptōs, ‘to not find fault’)’. This meant he not only talked the truth but walked the truth with integrity. People often relate to the Father they can’t see by the father they can see! For those that didn’t have great examples of fatherhood, look to godly mentors to see God’s idea of masculinity (Ps. 68:5; 1 Cor. 11:1; Phil. 3:17). Your heroes become your habits (Prov. 23:22-25).

Of ENCOURAGEMENT
Paul’s desire was to encourage (Gr. paramutheomai, ‘alongside to comfort/console’) godly behavior. Encouragement is often more fulfilling than money. The art of fathering is giving accountability from a heart of love and encouragement. Even discipline should be with compassion, designed to train not destroy (Prov. 3:11, 12; Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:21). Fathers are encouraged to have a heart of encouragement!

Of HARD WORK
God designed men to work and find satisfaction in providing for themselves, their family, and others (Gen. 2:15). Men spend their best years serving their families, churches, and countries by working hard, long hours. Paul described his time at church as being labor (Gr. kopos, ‘weariness from intense work’) and toil (Gr. mochthos, ‘pain from hardship’), showing fathers are leaders who set the example of carrying weight (2 Thess. 3:6-12). Walk worthy, so those who follow know where to go!

Fathers are to be HONORED
Though not perfect, God expects people to respect and honor fathers and those who play a fatherly role. Honoring doesn’t mean approving, but it does mean respect is given to the position God has given fathers and elders/pastors. God honors those who honor those that God wants honored (Matt. 15:4; Eph. 5:33; 1 Tim. 5:17; Heb. 12:9; 13:17)! Paul’s goal wasn’t just to work hard and share only of his goods, but also share about his God. As Paul proclaimed (Gr. kērussō, ‘to speak openly’) the good news of Jesus to others, so fathers should speak it to themselves, their family, and others (1 Tim. 3:2-5). It is an honor to honor God! A father’s greatest legacy is his spiritual legacy (Josh. 24:15; Prov. 14:26)!