Q. 120. Why hath Christ commanded us to address God thus: Our Father?

Question. Why hath Christ commanded us to address God thus: Our Father?

Answer. That immediately, in the very beginning of our prayer, he might excite in us a child-like reverence for, and confidence in God, which are the foundation of our prayer (Luke 11;11); namely, that God is become our Father in Christ (John 1;12), and will much less deny us what we ask of him in true faith, than our parents refuse us earthly things (Matt. 7;11).

Proofs.

• [proof-1] John 1;12.—But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in his name.— Eph. 1;5.—Gal. 4;6.