157. What Significance Has the Word "Abba," as When It Precedes the Word "Father" ?

"Abba" is the Hebrew word for "father," in the emphatic or definite state, as "thy father." Its use in referring to God was common among the Jews; but in order that it might not seem too familiar or irreverent, the New Testament writers gave it the twofold form, which has become a recognized phrase in Christian worship. It is as though they said: "Father, our Father."