The prayer [1] begins with a testimony to God [2], and with the reward of faith [3], when we say, “Our Father who art in the heavens;” for (in so saying), we at once pray [1] to God [2], and commend faith [3], whose reward this appellation is. It is written, “To them who believed [4] on Him He gave power to be called sons of God [2].” John 1:12 [5] However, our Lord very frequently proclaimed God as a Father to us; nay, even gave a precept “that we call no one on earth father, but the Father whom we have in the heavens:” Matthew 23:9 [6] and so, in thus praying [1], we are likewise obeying [7] the precept. Happy they who recognize their Father! This is the reproach that is brought against Israel [8], to which the Spirit attests heaven and earth, saying, “I have begotten sons, and they have not recognized me.” Isaiah 1:2 [9] Moreover, in saying “Father,” we also call Him “God [2].” That appellation is one both of filial duty and of power. Again, in the Father the Son is invoked; “for I,” says He, “and the Father are One.” John 10:30 [10] Nor is even our mother the Church [11] passed by, if, that is, in the Father and the Son [12] is recognized the mother, from whom arises the name both of Father and of Son. In one general term, then, or word, we both honour [13]God [2], together with His own, and are mindful of the precept, and set a mark on such as have forgotten their Father.