ICIC 2009 (Children turn to the fathers)

In 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12, Paul says, For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting & urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into His kingdom & glory.”

When we look at this theme “CHILDREN TURN TO THE FATHER” we are inevitably brought to the flawless relationship that has existed, will exist and will continue to exist in the Triune Godhead- The Father and his beloved Son. Over the next few weeks, His words will expose how this perfect love has flowed into the earthly relationship of a father and his children, for we must remember that “We love, because He first loved us,” (John 4:19 ).

But first what does it mean to be a father? And what is the role of his children? Why must they turn to him? Our reading for this week is actually a list of Paul’s dutiful accomplishments as a spiritual father as this verse says. However, this will be very useful in transferring the same principles to our familial relationships.

1) ENCOURAGING
Encouragement is perhaps one of the greatest weapons against the arrows of the evil one, and is especially expressed in the fellowship that we have with believers. From the example of Christ, we must input positive thoughts into our children, specifically through the Bible. This will teach children to be battle-hardened and prepared to meet more challenges without giving in. The effect of encouragement is hope- a hope that says that whatever happens, we are eternally connected to our creator. “I am sure that nothing can separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8:39 ). In Acts, we also see Barnabas being called the “son of encouragement,” because he stood by Paul (his spiritual father) and the churches despite persecution. So, it is also the role of every son and daughter to encourage their parents.

2) COMFORTING
If we did not have any problems in this world, there would be no need for comforting! Unfortunately, because of our innate independence of God, we are subject to this. Suffering, in all its forms, can suppress our faith. Without faith in our daily walk with God, we cannot have peace, especially in our relationships. So, it is very important for fathers to comfort their children. I am saying this because many times children view their mother as their only emotional support. This is often because, as men, they find it difficult to express love. But, fathers have an equal responsibility in comforting their children during suffering, for we know that our God is a “God of comfort” as it repeats many times in Psalms. This will lead to peace within the child’s heart and also will be displayed outside.

3) URGING
Urging is an interesting word. It comes from a Greek word which is similar to a “spur.” A “spur” is a spike that horse riders wear on their shoes and tap on the horses to make them run faster. Urging is often used in the context of spiritual growth in the Bible and how we are to “spur” one another to mature. Many children have been taught the scripture but have hit a plateau or even backslidden without fathers urging them. Even worse, some have turned to sin without the burden in their hearts to mature. It was never the will of God for us to understand scripture and just remain as we are. We are taught to urge one another to increase in our understanding of scripture and also apply that in our daily lives. That is why Pauls says that we are “urging you to live lives worth of God.” Children must live a holy life that is truly mirrors the life of their heavenly Father.