The Fatherhood of God: Abiding with Him | Steve Booker

07.05. 2026Earthly experiences shape our view of fatherhood, but Jesus revealed a radical truth: God is not a distant judge, but a loving Father who desires relationship. In Matthew 6, Jesus invites us to approach God as Father—our Abba who acts as our Source, Sustainer, Protector, and Provider. The story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15 illustrates two ways we fail to abide. The younger son sought independence through reckless living but found restoration in a Father who valued his identity over his sin. The older son stayed close but remained spiritually distant, trapped in religious performance by valuing property, processes, and programs over intimacy. True relationship requires presence over performance. God cannot be manipulated by religious checklists or works. He is never shocked by our mess; He is simply calling for a generation to put away the distractions, enter His presence, and choose to truly abide in Him.You can find this weeks sermon notes and groups guide here:https://gracechurchsp.org/resources/sermon-guidesTo take a deeper dive into this message with Pastor ryan peterson and Dan Lyle, check out our Groups Leader Podcast:https://gracechurchsp.org/resources/group-leader-podcastTo support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://www.gracechurchsp.org/giveFill the city with Jesus. This is the vision not just for our church, but for our people. The city is not just a physical location, but a collection of our family members, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. How can you bring Jesus to your city?——Stay ConnectedWebsite: https://www.gracechurchsp.orgGrace Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracechurchspGrace Church Instagram: @gracechurch_sp#fillthecitywithjesus