THE CRAZE FOR SPIRITUAL FATHERISM: A SATIRICAL TAKE ON BIBLICAL SPIRITUAL PARENTHOOD
In today's Body of Christ, the term "spiritual father" is tossed around like the latest trending hashtag. Everywhere you turn, there’s someone claiming to be a spiritual parent to another. Some do it with the authority of a bishop; others, with the gentle assertion of a Sunday school teacher who just finished their training. But does having a title, wearing a robe, or leading a congregation automatically make someone a spiritual father? In the world of spiritual fatherism, it seems the criteria for becoming a “father” have less to do with biblical principles and more to do with power dynamics and titles. So, let’s dive into this fascinating (and somewhat disturbing) craze and see what the Bible actually says about spiritual parenthood.
The Rise of the Spiritual Father: Who Needs Biological Parents Anyway?
Once upon a time, in the simpler days of yore, you had biological parents who raised you and taught you basic life skills like walking, talking, and surviving your first cold. But now, in this blessed age of spiritual enlightenment, all that’s needed for your soul’s survival is a spiritual father—preferably one with a megachurch, a book deal, and a well-crafted Instagram account. You see, spiritual fatherhood is not about loving or guiding you in the deep, messy way that biological parents do. Oh no. It's all about authority, submission, and, of course, the power to announce that your prayers will open the heavens.
Now, before we get too carried away, let’s remind ourselves: Is this whole spiritual father thing even biblical, or have we simply turned “Father” into a trendy title?
What is Biblical Spiritual Parenthood?
Before we proceed, let’s clarify something: The Bible does recognize the concept of spiritual fatherhood. But, spoiler alert—it’s not about appointing yourself as a dominant figure to control and mold people. Rather, biblical spiritual parenthood is rooted in love, wisdom, and the nurturing of God’s children through prayer, counsel, and mentorship. It’s not about micromanaging someone’s life or assigning them their destiny according to your own whims.
1. Spiritual Parenthood Requires Maturity
One of the most important qualifications for being a spiritual parent is spiritual maturity. Paul is a perfect example of this. In 1 Corinthians 4:15, he says, “For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.”
Here’s the catch: Paul doesn’t claim spiritual parenthood just because he had authority or influence over the people in Corinth. He doesn’t say, “I made you attend my Bible studies, so I’m your father now.” No. Paul calls himself their father because he gave birth to them through the gospel—meaning he played a key role in their spiritual growth, guiding them to Christ with care and responsibility.
This means that a spiritual father is not someone who simply holds a position in the church hierarchy or demands submission. A real spiritual parent should demonstrate a life of maturity in Christ, a steady walk of faith, and the ability to lead others into deeper intimacy with God.
2. It Requires Sacrifice and Accountability
It’s easy to call yourself someone’s “spiritual father” when you're basking in the limelight. It’s another thing to actually sacrifice your time, energy, and comfort to disciple someone—without making them feel like they owe you their firstborn. A true spiritual parent isn’t one who demands loyalty and submission without earning it through godly character and service. In 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, Paul describes his relationship with the Thessalonians: “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.”
Paul didn’t just preach at them. He lived among them, invested in their spiritual well-being, and made himself vulnerable for their growth. Where are the “spiritual fathers” today who will go beyond lecturing from a pulpit and actually share their lives with those they claim to lead?
3. It Requires Responsibility and Discipline
Spiritual fatherhood isn’t about creating a safe space to “be whoever you want to be.” It involves responsibility and discipline. In Hebrews 12:7, it says, “If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?”
Chastening here refers to correction—something we might not always like to hear, but something necessary for growth. If a spiritual father isn’t willing to correct, challenge, and guide their spiritual children when they go astray, then their title is simply a performance. Real spiritual parents care enough to correct with love, pointing others back to Christ, not themselves.
4. It Requires a Genuine Relationship, Not a Power Dynamic
Today, we see too many self-appointed spiritual fathers who make it all about them—about their glory, their fame, and their influence. But, in the Bible, spiritual fatherhood is about building relationships based on mutual respect, love, and growth in Christ. In 2 Timothy 1:2, Paul writes to Timothy: “To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” Notice the deep affection and connection Paul has for Timothy. This is more than an authority relationship; it’s one that nurtures, mentors, and grows together.
5. It Requires Humility and Service, Not Title-Collecting
So, let’s talk about what we see in the spiritual fatherhood craze today. How many so-called spiritual “fathers” are walking in true humility and service? Or are they just collecting titles like trophies and using their “fatherhood” status to demand respect and obedience? The Bible’s model of spiritual fatherhood isn’t about title-collecting or using your influence for personal gain. It’s about serving those entrusted to you with humility, as Jesus did. Jesus, who in John 13:14, washed His disciples’ feet, is the perfect example of what spiritual fatherhood should look like: servanthood, not lording over others.
In conclusion, the truth is that the title of "spiritual father" cannot be bestowed based on a position in the church or an anointed voice in the pulpit. It’s about life, sacrifice, responsibility, and growth—both for the leader and the followers. True spiritual fathers are mentors who point their children to Christ and provide loving guidance, not ego-driven power trips.
So, the next time you hear someone claim spiritual fatherhood, ask yourself: Is this person more interested in the title or in genuinely nurturing others in the faith? Are they building a kingdom for Christ, or a platform for themselves? Only when these questions are answered with genuine humility, service, and accountability can one claim to be a true spiritual parent. Until then, perhaps we should all take a step back and re-evaluate who is truly deserving of the title.
After all, fatherhood in the spiritual realm is not about hierarchy—it's about heart.
Wednesday April 22nd, 2026
© Pastor Emmanuel Obu
The Apostle of Joy
