A Father’s Concern

Background Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3; 1 Timothy 1
Lesson Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13

Introduction

This lesson has two main areas of focus: the spirit of a true father and the godly vision he carries in his heart. A true father provides a place of security for those souls entrusted to his care. When a father loves the Lord, he will have a godly concern for his own soul, his responsibility, and his place as leader and husband. When the care of family and home is born from a love for God and the truth, a father will find acceptance in the hearts of those he loves. Self-love, however, will confuse his guidance and encouragements. “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning” (1 John 2:13).

Key Verse

For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel (1 Cor. 4:15).

Lesson Scripture

Studying the Lesson

Thessalonica was an important center of trade. Paul and Silas passed through here about A.D. 51 during Paul’s second missionary journey on their way between Philippi and Berea. Shortly before this, they had made acquaintance with Timothy in Lystra and, being inspired by his faithfulness, had asked him to accompany them.

Although it seems Paul was not there very long, a large company of Jews and Greeks believed the gospel message, and a church was begun. After the new believers were converted, these missionaries were driven from Thessalonica because of persecution and so traveled on to Athens and Corinth. While in Athens, Paul’s father heart was deeply concerned for the welfare of the newly formed, persecuted church in Thessalonica. The exact time he spent there is unknown; it was possibly as short as three weeks, likely not much longer. He wondered if the faith had taken root and grown or if they had become discouraged under immediate opposition. The memory of their sweet fellowship so filled him with longing to know their condition that he called for Timothy and sent him to visit them.

Paul’s companionship with Timothy exemplified the relationship of a spiritual father to a son. Timothy was learning the virtue of spiritually caring for the brethren. He found the church there faithful, and his report filled Paul with joy. His solicitude for the church was rewarded in the resulting confidence he gained for them. He was especially blessed when he heard how they longed to see him again. Of special note is his desire to help them if there was anything lacking in their faith. Paul was not hesitant or fearful but gentle in his approach to the needs of men. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love” (1 John 4:18).

Practical Truths for Today

What is God’s message to the church today as we consider this lesson? Every home has an atmosphere, or spirit, whether it is one of security, order, and love or one of trouble, distress, and instability. Children first experience their need for security and acceptance at home. A spiritual, loving atmosphere in the home is established primarily by the parents’ connection to God.

We enter into a relationship with God through the new birth. Beginning with the forgiveness of our sins and commitment to Him, we embark upon a journey of learning to understand God as our Father. As God reveals Himself, we begin to see his unfathomable love to us. As we respond to that love, a comprehension of Christ’s righteousness begins to unfold. The more we love and obey Him, the more unworthy we see ourselves. As this relationship continues to develop, the grace of God, imputed to us through Jesus, becomes the foundation upon which we build our life. This brings peace, freedom, and happiness, and it certainly affects how we relate to our children and to others. The message that springs from this kind of heart is free from the shackles of self-righteousness. If we fathers are ruled by godly, sacrificial love, our family will be able to see God instead of them being solely accountable to us.

Men are called to be fathers at a young age. It is a wonderful and solemn responsibility. Young men begin preparation by establishing a meaningful relationship with God and learning how to fully surrender their will. This will mean exercising self-denial and restraint early on. To ask a young lady to leave the security of her parental home and then endeavor to provide for her can only be done with God’s blessings and his grace. As children come into the home, they each will have a different nature and specific needs. They will turn their little faces upward and reach their arms toward their father. Fathers, be perceptive of your family’s needs and feelings. Youth age children will feel the need to be understood. They have not yet walked this way, but their father has. Be understanding and kind, and willingly invest your time and energy in your relationship with your children. You are forming the way they will understand God. Exercise unselfishness in everyday living. Let your children know by your example that you respect and love their mother.

The church also needs fathers. How are the children and youth of today living out their faith? The faith our church embraces is dear to us, and every father should be carrying a concern for the following generation. When we see a brother in difficulty, we should not hesitate to kindly reach out and offer assistance. Young couples may need guidance, and children reaching accountability need an understanding hand on their shoulder and a kind word. Sometimes congregations, together with the ministry, face a challenging spirit and need the vision and counsel of a church father.

God uses true men. They do not need to have outstanding expertise or be well known for their abilities; all they need is a godly concern, a willing heart, and a desire to be of service to the Master. They will need to have unfeigned love for the brethren: “By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned” (2 Cor. 6:6). God wants to give us a vision coupled with godly concern. Is there someone in your congregation who needs a father? Could you make it your responsibility to see how things are going and let them know you are there for them? Caring perception will recognize need. Faith that God is in control brings rest to our spirit.

In contrast, we can become motivated by a selfish spirit of control. This happens when we do not fully comprehend the righteousness of God. We love self by clinging to our point of view, which may be right, good, and laden with concern. The fact that we have interests or convictions and are involved with our family, church, or individuals, yet our concerns seem to go unheeded, can be confusing. When we are motivated by self-righteousness, our concerns will be unacceptable to those we are concerned for. Frustration and estrangement will then often develop, and a loss of confidence will likely ensue as relationships wither. This condition is not so easily recognized and must be revealed by God and, at times, through the brotherhood.

Questions

1. When does a fatherly spirit begin?
2. Does being a father to someone in the congregation naturally come with age, or must something be put in practice?
3. How can fathers today know if they are fulfilling their role, such as charting a safe course and providing the necessary spiritual and emotional care for the family?
4. How important are daily family devotions? How are they to be practiced in our homes today?

Source: COGICM Daily Bible Readings (Daily Bible Readings, PO Box 124, Glenn, CA 95943).