The concept of a “spiritual father” is mysterious to some but recognizable and valuable within the biblical word of God. In the New Testament, Apostle Paul reminds Timothy, his son-in-the-Lord, that though he may have many instructors or mentors, he has only one spiritual father.
“For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.” – 1 Corinthians 4:15
The New King James translation emphasizes an important term: the word “begotten.” A spiritual father is not merely a pastor, or ministry leader that you submit to. It is not someone who asserts dominance, authority, or ownership over a believer.
It is someone labors intensively, as burdened and ordained by the Spirit of God, to see to it that their appointed sons and daughters do not leave this Earth without reaching their God-given potential—especially in the ministry.
They have begotten, birthed, and spurred their spiritual children to run this race of Christ without ever looking back. They have held them up in intercession, rebuke, and encouragement, as well as teaching and mentorship, because the Bible says that a steward must be found faithful (1 Corinthians 4:2).
Spiritual fathers, mothers, and leaders stand before God accountable for the progress and faithfulness of their children.
“Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.” – Hebrews 13:17
1 Corinthians 4 also tells us that spiritual fathers have “begotten us through the Gospel,” which means that our common faith in Jesus Christ is the platform for their fatherhood and our sonship or daughterhood. Spiritually, we are part of another family tree—in addition to our earthly family ancestry. God has given the gift of spiritual fathers to us in the divine family tree.
This beautiful relationship is legitimate. Taking the responsibility of watching over our souls as those who must give account is a huge undertaking. But it’s also a model of the Father’s grace, who promised us through Jesus Christ at the dispensation of His Holy Spirit, that He would never leave us as orphans (John 14:18).
God is a mastermind and thoughtful Creator. He replicates the beauty and structures in heaven down here to us on Earth in glorious ways. Modeling the Heavenly Father, earthly and spiritual fathers are meant to labor and stand for the well-being of their children.
“Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” – Matthew 6:10
The word “begotten” is traditionally used of men to illustrate reproduction or the bringing forth of a thing (that models the original) into existence. God brought Jesus forth from Himself when He sent Him down to Earth. He forfeited His prized and image-bearing Child. He gave up His only begotten son (John 3:16). God giving spiritual fathers who bring forth children of anointing and grace for their calling is just an added special gift.
This Father’s Day, honor your spiritual fathers if you have one. They’ve begotten you in Christ! Thank them for their love and sacrifice before the Lord. Walk humbly with them like Elisha to Elijah, Joshua to Moses, Pastor Timothy to Apostle Paul, and the Disciples to Jesus Christ. Gladden their hearts with your submission (Proverbs 10:1) and make them proud as you practice their example and advance the Kingdom of Christ on Earth.
