He said to them, “When you pray, say: “ ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. -Luke 11:2 NIV

One of the most common mistakes the people of God can make when talking about others who are not Christians is that they are “children of God.” I’m sorry to say that it is simply not true. They are part of His creation, but they are not His children.

The Bible does not say that there are many paths to God. It does tell us that there is one God and one mediator between God and people, Christ Jesus (1 Tim. 2:5).

Before anybody accuses me of being elitist and claiming membership in some exclusive club, let me make this known: His family is open to you — if you answer His call. The adoption fee has already been paid by Jesus. All we must do is exercise faith in Him and what He has done for us. Are you in the family? Would you like to be?

In fact, a study of the Old Testament will not reveal any instance of the Hebrews referring to God as “Father.” Although many names and terms are offered for God, Father is never one of them. It is not until the advent of Jesus Christ that we are introduced to the possibility of Almighty God as our loving, personal Father. Loving, yes — but not as our Father.

The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “ Abba, Father.” -Romans 8:15 NIV