February 14, 2015
This week’s study is about,
Fatherhood of God
The Apostles’ Creed,’ I believe in God the Father Almighty; Maker of heaven and earth.’
When you hear the word ‘Father’ what thoughts come to mind? Do you recall things about your own father or someone else’s? Are they positive/negative or a combination of both?
When you hear about God being your Father what thoughts come to mind? Are they similar to your own earthly father?
Do you think our concept/view of God is influenced by our experiences with our earthly father? If so how?
As you listened to John on Sunday were there any things he shared which you found helpful and changed your view of God as Father?
Share your thoughts with those in your group.
What does the Bible tell us about our Heavenly Father?
1. What names are given to the three Persons of the Trinity? Matthew 28:19.
2. In Genesis Chapters 1-3 we read about God creating all things. How does He show the concept of fatherhood in relation to Adam and Eve? Genesis 1:26-30.
3. Why do you think Jesus referred to God the Father as His Father (and He being His Son) and taught his disciples to address Him as ‘Father’ Luke 11:2 when God is not a sexual being and His love and care can also be compared to that of a concerned and caring mother? Read Isaiah 49:14-16.
4. Is God the Father of all mankind? (see your answer to question 2) Read Jesus words to the Pharisees. John 8:38-47. Who was their father?
How does a person become God’s child and therefore have Him as their father? Read and discuss John 1:10-14.
5. Read Romans 8:15-17. What are the wonderful things the apostle Paul says happens when a person becomes God’s child?
· Romans 8:15.
· Romans 8:16
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· Romans 8:17.
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6. What was the greatest way God showed his love for you and all mankind? Romans 5:6-8.
Read the story of ‘The lost son’ in Luke 15:11-32.
Discuss what this story teaches us about God’s love as a father towards his lost children.
Discuss especially Luke 15:20 including the cultural significance of ‘…he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.’
7. As God’s children what are the things Paul specifically mentions in Romans 8:31-39 can never separate us as God’s love?
Is there anything he has missed?
8. How does God promise to care for His children? Matthew 6:25-34. What should our response be?
9. What does God also promise to do because of His great love for his children? Hebrews 12:5-11. What is the result?
10. As God’s blessed children what should be our response in the following areas?
· Our commitment to wholeheartedly living for God.
· Our desire to pray for and share with others who don’t know God as their father.