Our understanding of God is enhanced and made intimate in the way Jesus taught us to think of God as Father (Abba). We are to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven” Matt 6:9. Our Heavenly Abba is the father’s mentor. Fathers who are the best mentors have Abba as their Mentor. Jesus shows us the Father (Jn 14:7-11), and teaches us to be like Him. Those born of the Father demonstrate sonship by following the Father’s example.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.’ Matthew 5:43-48 (NASB)
