The Disciples’ Prayer Series – Part 3
In Heaven: Understanding God’s Position and Nature
When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He began with “Our Father in heaven.” Why that phrase? Why not just “Our Father”? The placement of “in heaven” is deliberate—it speaks to God’s exaltation, authority, and holiness, distinguishing Him from everything profane or common.
Heaven: God’s Throne and His Position as King
Scripture consistently defines heaven as God’s throne, emphasizing His position above all creation. Isaiah, David, Jesus, and even Stephen—the first Christian martyr—all affirm that God reigns from heaven. If God has a throne, then He must be King. And not just any king—He is King of Kings, the Most High, the Creator of heaven and earth.
The Paradox of God’s Nature
Here’s where things get profound: God is both transcendent and immanent. This means He is high above us yet draws near. He is incomprehensible and ineffable, yet He chooses to reveal Himself. The phrase “Our Father in heaven” captures this paradox perfectly—Father (close) / In Heaven (beyond us).
- Transcendence: God’s ways are higher than ours, His thoughts beyond our understanding.
- Immanence: Through Jesus, He dwells among us—Immanuel, God with us—and even within us.
Approaching God: Father and King
How do we approach such a God—so grand yet so personal? The Bible guides us:
- With thanksgiving and praise – Enter His courts joyfully.
- With songs of understanding – Worship that instructs and exalts.
- With humility – Honor His holiness.
- With listening hearts – Few words, open ears.
Our Position with Him
God, in His grace, has seated us with Christ in heavenly places. We are heirs of God, co-heirs with Christ, no longer slaves to sin, but victorious through Him.
And yet, does that diminish our need to worship? Absolutely not. If anything, understanding our honored position should increase our reverence for Him. Even the twenty-four elders, exalted in the heavenly vision of Revelation, cast their crowns and worship. The more we grasp God’s greatness, the more worship becomes our natural response.
The Conclusion: He is King, We are Worshipers
At the end of the day, God is King. He is exalted. He is worthy of worship. What does He ask of us? That we love Him and love others—for love fulfills all the commandments.
Dive deeper into this truth through the full message, audio, and notes.