What does the Bible say about calling God 'Father' or 'Abba'?

The concept of calling God "Father" or "Abba" holds profound theological significance within Christian doctrine, deeply rooted in both the Old and New Testaments. The term "Abba," an Aramaic word meaning "father" or "daddy," conveys intimacy, trust, and a personal relationship with God. This intimate address is revolutionary in its implications for how believers relate to the Creator. To understand this, we must explore the biblical foundation and theological ramifications of addressing God as "Father" or "Abba."

In the Old Testament, the notion of God as Father is present but not as prominently highlighted as it is in the New Testament. For instance, in Isaiah 63:16, the prophet declares, "But you are our Father, though Abraham does not know us or Israel acknowledge us; you, Lord, are our Father, our Redeemer from of old is your name." Similarly, in Deuteronomy 32:6, Moses refers to God as the Father who created and established Israel: "Is this the way you repay the Lord, you foolish and unwise people? Is he not your Father, your Creator, who made you and formed you?" These references highlight God's role as the originator and sustainer of His people, emphasizing His authority and care.

However, it is in the New Testament that the address of God as "Father" becomes central to the Christian faith, primarily through the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus frequently referred to God as His Father, thereby inviting His followers to share in this intimate relationship. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus instructs His disciples to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name" (Matthew 6:9). This prayer not only acknowledges God's holiness but also invites believers into a familial relationship with Him.

The term "Abba" is used three times in the New Testament, each instance providing a deeper understanding of the believer's relationship with God. The first instance is found in Mark 14:36, where Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, prays, "Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." Here, Jesus expresses profound intimacy and submission to God's will, demonstrating a model of trust and surrender for believers.

The second instance is in Romans 8:15, where the Apostle Paul writes, "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'" This passage highlights the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, who enables believers to enter into a relationship with God characterized by adoption and sonship, free from fear. The use of "Abba" signifies a close, personal bond, akin to that of a child with a loving parent.

The third instance is in Galatians 4:6, where Paul reiterates, "Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.'" This verse emphasizes the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, who affirms the believer's identity as a child of God and enables them to approach God with confidence and intimacy.

Theologically, calling God "Father" or "Abba" underscores several key aspects of the Christian faith. Firstly, it affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, revealing the relational nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The relationship between Jesus and the Father serves as a model for believers, who are invited to share in this divine fellowship through the Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian relationship is foundational to understanding the nature of God and the believer's place within the divine family.

Secondly, addressing God as "Father" or "Abba" highlights the concept of adoption, a central theme in Pauline theology. In Ephesians 1:5, Paul writes, "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will." This adoption is not merely a legal status but a transformative relationship that redefines the believer's identity and destiny. As adopted children, believers are heirs of God's promises and recipients of His love and grace.

Thirdly, the use of "Abba" emphasizes the believer's access to God and the intimacy of their relationship with Him. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to "approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This confidence is rooted in the assurance of God's fatherly love and care, which dispels fear and fosters trust.

Moreover, calling God "Father" or "Abba" challenges and transforms human concepts of fatherhood. Earthly fathers, despite their best intentions, are imperfect and fallible. In contrast, God's fatherhood is perfect, characterized by unconditional love, wisdom, and faithfulness. Jesus highlights this in Matthew 7:11, stating, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" This comparison encourages believers to trust in God's goodness and provision, even when earthly experiences of fatherhood may have been lacking.

Furthermore, the address of God as "Father" or "Abba" has profound implications for the believer's prayer life. It invites believers to approach God with childlike faith, authenticity, and dependence. Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:6-8 underscores the personal nature of prayer: "But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." This passage encourages believers to engage in sincere, heartfelt communication with God, assured of His attentive care and provision.

In addition, the concept of God as "Father" or "Abba" fosters a sense of community and unity among believers. As children of the same Father, believers are brothers and sisters in Christ, called to love and support one another. This familial bond is reflected in the early Christian community, as described in Acts 2:42-47, where believers shared their lives and resources, devoted themselves to teaching and fellowship, and experienced the favor and blessing of God. The recognition of God as "Father" thus shapes the way believers relate to one another, promoting a culture of mutual love, respect, and service.

In conclusion, the biblical teaching on calling God "Father" or "Abba" is rich with theological significance and practical implications. It reveals the intimate, personal relationship that believers are invited to share with God, characterized by trust, love, and dependence. It affirms the believer's identity as adopted children of God, heirs of His promises, and members of His divine family. It transforms human concepts of fatherhood, providing a model of perfect love and care. It shapes the believer's prayer life, encouraging sincere and confident communication with God. And it fosters a sense of community and unity among believers, grounded in the shared experience of God's fatherly love. As believers embrace this profound truth, they are drawn into deeper fellowship with God and one another, experiencing the fullness of life that comes from being part of God's family.