A Matter of Relationship

Throughout the years, I’ve had people ask me if they should call me “reverend” or “pastor.”  I’ve usually answered, “That depends.” To me, “reverend” is a title earned by means of a credential given—in my case by means of my ordination as a minister of the gospel through the Assemblies of God. “Pastor” is a term of relationship. To those outside the church, especially those with whom I may be doing some sort of business, I’m “reverend.” But to those within the church (and sometimes outside the church), those whom I am leading and guiding in spiritual matters, those for whom I may be spiritually responsible in some way, I am “pastor.” 

I liken it to the fact that I am a “father.” But to my children I am “Dad.” “Father” is a word that describes the fact that I have children. “Dad” is a word of relationship that only my children use when speaking to me or about me. In fact, I would find it a bit weird if someone other than my children would call me “dad.”  I am a “grandfather” because my son has children. But to my grandchildren I am “grandpa.” (And I love being called, “grandpa!”) 

When it comes to what we call God, that depends as well on what kind of relationship we may or may not have with him. To those who do not have any real relationship with him he is simply, “God.” But the Bible shows us that, those who have been brought into a relationship with him through faith in Jesus, now call him, “Father.” Actually, we call him “Abba,” which means not just “father” but even “daddy.” 

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” (Galatians 4:6 – NIV) And, “…the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”  The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” (Romans 8:15-16) 

Jesus taught us to pray, “Our Father….”  For once we have come into relationship with God, we no longer need to address him by his title of position; we now get to address him by a word that speaks to our relationship with him. He is no longer just the God over the heavens and the earth, he is now our father! Thus, when we pray we get to address him as such. And I can’t help but think how much he must enjoy being called, “father!” 

So allow me to ask you, do you know him as your Father? Have you entered into a relationship with him such that you now call out to him, not just as “God” or even “Lord,” but as “Father?”  

I hope you have. If not, message me and I’ll try to help you along your way. After all, I’m not just a “reverend,” I’m a “pastor.” 

Have a great day! 

- Pastor Tim Harris