#1: The Eternal Father The first Person of the Trinity is known as God the Father because that is the core of His identity. God is Creator, Ruler, and Judge. But these are things He does. They are not who He is. God has always been an eternally loving Father who deeply loves His eternal Son, Jesus Christ. #2: The Unapproachable Fire The Bible tells us that our God is a “consuming fire.” This describes God’s uncompromising holiness. When anything enters God’s presence, its purity is tested. God the Father lives in “unapproachable light.” We need to embrace this description of God because His holiness is what makes His love so breathtaking. God is so holy He is like a consuming fire, and He loves us. #3: Our Heavenly Father In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus tells us to pray to God as “our heavenly Father.” How is this possible? We know that God is the eternally loving Father of His eternal Son, Jesus. But we’re not like Jesus. We are sinners. So how can we possibly call God our Father? #4: The Hope of Adoption Romans 8:12-17 shows us that through faith in Jesus Christ we become “co-heirs” with Christ. To become a co-heir with Jesus is also to become a child of God Almighty. This is why Paul says we can cry out to God, “Abba, Father!” We are adopted into God’s family. This is incredible hope for us! Sample Questions for GCs: #1: The first four words of the Lord’s Prayer are “Our Father in heaven.” We can call God our Father through faith in Jesus. Take a moment to discuss how a good father loves and treats His children, both with compassion and discipline. Have your life experiences distorted your understanding of God as a good Father? Why or why not? #2: The Bible affirms that God is like a “consuming fire.” In His presence, purity is tested. He is eternally holy, and He never makes a compromise with any sin or uncleanness. He is so holy that He lives in unapproachable light. Discuss this question: If a Christian only ever thought of God as loving, but never holy, do you think they would have a very courageous or serious faith? #3: Read Romans 8:15. Discuss this verse. What stands out to you? How does this verse help you understand how to approach God as a Christian?