Timothy grew up without a dad. His mom was a Jewish Christian and his dad was a Greek. Whether he was gone or simply had no influence, God chose Paul to fill that void in his life. In fact, both letters which Paul wrote to Timothy, he addressed him as “son.” What began as “my son in the faith” in 1 Timothy 1:2, blossomed into “my dearly beloved son” in 2 Timothy 1:2. Both letters are an expression of a father's heart for his children.

Of course we can apply that desire to fathers and their children today. I want it to apply to mine. But it also applies to pastoral relationships within the church. Paul wasn’t just fathering Timothy, he was shepherding his heart. He was pastoring him, something that we all need and therefore can apply to us all.

This Father's Day message is very personal for me. In many ways it is just a handful of truths that I wish my dad would have had time to teach me, and therefore I desperately want my children to know. I share the same desire for everyone in the congregation at Phillips Chapel.  I hope you'll join us today as we celebrate Father's Day and turn to the Scriptures for some paternal advice for the next generation.