Why does Paul call God 'the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ' specifically when giving thanks? What does this title reveal about our access to God?
Paul begins this letter by expressing deep gratitude, and he highlights a crucial identity of God: 'the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.' This isn't just a descriptor; it's foundational to how we approach God.
A Unique Relationship
When Paul calls God 'the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,' he's pointing to a unique, eternal relationship between the Father and the Son. It's a relationship of divine origin and intimacy.
Our Gateway to Grace
But this title also becomes our gateway. Because God is Jesus' Father, and we are united with Jesus through faith, God becomes our Father too – by adoption! This means we don't approach a distant, unknowable deity. We come to a Father who knows us intimately, loves us deeply, and has blessed us through His Son.
This is why thanks are so fitting: all spiritual blessings flow from God as the Father of Jesus, and therefore, as our Father through Him. Our access isn't earned; it's granted through Christ.
