Followers of Jesus Christ have a unique privilege: They may know God as Father. Though the Old testament refers to God as the Father of Israel as a nation, almost nowhere do we find pre-Christian Jews referring to God as their own personal Father. When Jesus came, He brought with Him the revelation that the Maker of the universe, the Ruler of the kings of the earth, the Savior of His people, is a heavenly Father. Jesus also told us what kind of Father our God has shown Himself to be: - “In secret”. God is invisible. He is a Spirit, without a body. He cannot be known except by self-revelation. That is why reason and religion cannot lead us to God. He can only be known through His Word and Spirit as these come to us from God alone. - “In heaven”. He is a transcendent God. Though we are made in His image, and thus like Him, in many ways, He far exceeds us even in those qualities which we share with Him, such as intelligence and goodness. He possesses infinite power, wisdom, and authority. He governs the world according to His own good purposes, with none to hinder Him. He dwells in inapproachable light, for He is righteous, holy, and pure. - All knowing: He knows what we need even before we ask. He also knows what is best for us, and how and when to grant what we need (6:8,32). - Generous. Otherwise, why would Jesus say, “Your Father… will reward you”? Later, He told the disciples that will “give good gifts to those who ask Him” (7:11). He seems to enjoy showering presents upon His children on earth. He gives “exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us” (Ephesians 3:20). To know this God as Father, through faith in Jesus His Son, is eternal life (John 17:3). To draw near to Him in open and unhindered communication is the greatest privilege on earth!