Why use masculine pronouns for God?

Definition of Terms

“Masculine pronouns for God” refers to the consistent Scriptural use of words like “He,” “Him,” and “Father” in the original Hebrew and Greek texts, as well as in most English translations. These references do not imply that God is biologically male; rather, they reflect the way God chose to reveal Himself. As Scripture repeatedly employs these masculine forms, many translations follow suit.

Historical and Cultural Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the use of masculine language for deity was often linked to authority, kingship, and protection—concepts the nations around Israel had ascribed to their gods. The biblical writers drew on certain familiar linguistic forms, yet the portrayal of God in Scripture stands apart for its unique personal and moral standards.

Hebrew society was patriarchal, which shaped how language was used in worship and literature. Still, this cultural framework does not undermine the claim that Scripture is inspired (2 Timothy 3:16–17). Instead, it provides a contextual lens to see why pronouns like “He” and titles like “Father” were employed as part of God’s self-revelation.

Biblical Usage

From Genesis onward, Scripture presents God primarily with masculine terms and titles. In the Old Testament, He is frequently referred to as Yahweh (Exodus 3:15), a name that is grammatically masculine in Hebrew. Passages like Psalm 103:13 say, “As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him,” using explicit father/child imagery.

In the New Testament, Jesus instructs believers to address God as “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). Throughout the Gospels, Jesus calls God “Father” (John 5:19–20), thus continuing the masculine pronoun usage. The apostles also follow suit, calling God “the Father” (Ephesians 1:3; 1 Peter 1:2–3). This pattern is consistent across the New Testament manuscripts.

The Nature of Language

Language, especially personal pronouns, is used to relate to persons in a personal manner. The consistent biblical usage of masculine pronouns for God underscores His personal nature and His relational stance as Father.

At the same time, Scripture affirms that God is Spirit (John 4:24) and thus not limited by human gender categories. The usage of “He” does not confine God to male biology but represents how He has revealed Himself in both Old and New Testaments. Language must be understood as a tool for relationship and communication rather than a declaration that God is restricted to human male attributes.

Theological Reflection

Majoring on the fatherly aspect of God highlights His care, authority, and intimate fellowship with believers. Biblical imagery of a father is bound up with the ideas of provision and discipline (Hebrews 12:5–6), alongside love and compassion (Luke 15:20).

Furthermore, using masculine pronouns underscores God’s transcendence and holiness distinct from created beings. By choosing to reveal Himself with masculine terms, God communicates truths about authority, covenant leadership, and the parental bond. This is reflected in John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us,” again applying masculine pronouns to the Son, Jesus Christ, who reveals the Father.

Christ’s Revelation of God

Jesus Christ, who is “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), repeatedly addressed God as “Father.” In prayers like John 17, Jesus uses paternal language more than once, emphasizing an intimate and personal relationship. Because Jesus is God incarnate, His words carry definitive weight.

When He taught the disciples how to pray, He used these words: “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). This established a pattern for believers that remains in place historically and theologically, reflecting the way the Son interacts with the Father.

Concerns About Gender

Some might question whether assigning masculine pronouns to God excludes or diminishes feminine imagery. Scripture does include metaphorical motherly language demonstrating God’s nurturing care (Isaiah 66:13). Yet the overarching testimony and self-disclosure of God in Scripture is paternal and related to fatherhood.

This does not negate feminine attributes such as comfort or nurture; it rather focuses on the revelation God has given of Himself and the role He fulfills as Father. The chosen masculine pronouns highlight His authority and leadership for His covenant people, while other descriptions exhibit His wide-ranging character traits.

Why It Matters

Retaining masculine pronouns honors the divine revelation preserved in ancient manuscripts and sustained in faithful translations. It aligns with how Jesus addressed God, builds continuity with the Old Testament portrayal, and highlights the consistent testimony of the early church.

By upholding these pronouns, believers also acknowledge the unique relational dynamics Christ introduced between the Father, the Son, and by extension, His followers. Faithful usage of masculine pronouns thus serves to keep believers close to the original scriptural message.

Conclusion

Masculine pronouns for God are used in Scripture to reflect how He has chosen to speak of Himself. Although He transcends human gender, God’s representation as Father demonstrates His sovereignty, nurture, protection, and authority. From Genesis to Revelation, the biblical writers, inspired by the Holy Spirit, present God with primarily masculine titles and pronouns.

This consistent usage is solidified by Jesus Himself, who calls God “Father,” thereby giving a foundational framework for Christian worship, doctrine, and practice. Far from a mere cultural carryover, these pronouns serve a vital role in teaching believers about God’s nature and guiding them into a deep, personal relationship with Him.