1. Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What does Jesus mean when he refers to “your Father in heaven”?

Matthew 5:16 (ESV)

16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so thatthey may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Jesus assumes that those who follow his teaching are those who belong to the kingdom and thus will know God as their Father. In saying this, he points to the existence of an intimate relationship with God for all those who are part of the kingdom. 1