Perceptions of God: Effectively Ministering to Men Whose View of God has been Negatively Impacted by a Dysfunctional Father Figure

Abstract

This research examines the link between how a father fulfills his role and how his children, specifically his sons, view God as a result. This work is meant to establish awareness and recognition that transference of the familial father with God the father does in fact take place, and quite often. The document presents a brief overview of the most common forms of paternal role violation, as well as the identity distortions that men struggle with as a result. It will examine how God the Father is altogether different from the earthly father, and how possible and necessary it is to approach our Heavenly Father through his Son. Five Bible stories are recommended as a possible point of initiation for pastors to use when counseling and encouraging these men. Bible stories are also utilized to illustrate some of the most common forms of paternal neglect or abuse and their affiliated identity distortions; as well as, to outline how using Scripture can assist with overcoming these distortions with Christ as the answer.