This Q&A session features Dr. Bruce Ware as the interviewee and Dr. Owen Strachan as the interviewer. The central focus is the theology of fatherhood as understood from a Christian, Reformed Baptist perspective. The session aims to dive deep into what the Bible teaches about fatherhood and how these teachings can be applied in today's world.
Dr. Bruce Ware starts by stating that being a father is fundamentally about being a representative of God the Father. He emphasizes that earthly fathers should strive to mirror God's attributes, such as His love, discipline, and instruction.
The discussion then touches on the book of Ephesians, specifically Ephesians 6:4. Dr. Ware elaborates that fathers are called to bring up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. The role is not just to avoid provoking their children to anger, but to provide loving, biblical instruction and discipline.
He also references Deuteronomy 6:4-9, affirming that fathers should teach their children diligently about God and His laws. Dr. Ware mentions that the Old Testament is filled with practical ways in which fathers should act as spiritual leaders in their homes. Fathers should be consistent in teaching and leading by example.
Dr. Owen Strachan then brings up the idea that the Christian community sometimes has a lesser view of fatherhood, seeing it merely as a biological role. Dr. Ware responds by arguing that this limited perspective should be countered by the robust biblical vision of fatherhood that encompasses teaching, leading, protecting, and loving as God does.
As they conclude the evening's session, Dr. Strachan provides details about the upcoming events, which include another session with Dr. Ware, separate breakouts for men and women, and a final Q&A. Dr. Strachan then closes the evening with a prayer that emphasizes the divine attributes of fatherhood and asks for God's grace in enabling the attendees to be faithful fathers and mothers, in line with God's Word.
The Q&A serves as a theological and practical guide for understanding the role of fatherhood through a biblical lens, with both the interviewee and interviewer grounding their perspectives deeply in Scripture.
