Does the Father Have More Authority Than Jesus? (The Patrick Madrid Show)

When 12-year-old Zoe from Rio Rancho, New Mexico, calls in to The Patrick Madrid Show with a question that has puzzled believers for centuries — “If God the Father and Jesus the Son are equal, why does the Church call one the Father and the other the Son?” — Patrick responds with clarity, warmth, and theological depth. What follows is a beautiful conversation that makes one of the most profound mysteries of Christianity — the Holy Trinity — come alive in a way both kids and adults can understand. Patrick gently walks Zoe through the truth that God is one divine nature in three co-equal, eternal Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. He explains that this is an eternal relationship of love and knowledge. Using simple, relatable examples like self-reflection and the image seen in a mirror, Patrick shows how the Son is the perfect image of the Father, and the Holy Spirit is the love shared between them. Along the way, he helps Zoe grasp deep concepts like what it means for God to be infinite and eternal, and how being made in God’s image gives each of us the capacity to know and love — just as He does. The conversation ends on a lighthearted note about homeschooling and everyday faith, showing Patrick’s gift for blending profound truth with personal warmth. This episode is a perfect listen for families, catechists, and anyone seeking to better understand the mystery of the Trinity. It’s a reminder that even the most complex questions about God can begin with childlike curiosity — and that faith and reason truly go hand in hand. The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.