Hi Matt,
I thought the way that Thayer described this was very helpful.
Thayer Definition:
1) generator or male ancestor
1a) either the nearest ancestor: father of the corporeal nature, natural fathers, both parents
1b) a more remote ancestor, the founder of a family or tribe, progenitor of a people, forefather:
so Abraham is called, Jacob and David
1b1) fathers, i.e. ancestors, forefathers, founders of a nation
1c) one advanced in years, a senior
2) metaphorically
2a) the originator and transmitter of anything
2a1) the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself
2a2) one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds
2b) one who stands in a father’s place and looks after another in a paternal way
2c) a title of honour
2c1) teachers, as those to whom pupils trace back the knowledge and training they have received
2c2) the members of the Sanhedrin, whose prerogative it was by virtue of the wisdom
and experience in which they excelled, to take charge of the interests of others
3) God is called the Father
3a) of the stars, the heavenly luminaries, because he is their creator, upholder, ruler
3b) of all rational and intelligent beings, whether angels or men, because he is their creator,
preserver, guardian and protector
3b1) of spiritual beings and of all men
3c) of Christians, as those who through Christ have been exalted to a specially close
and intimate relationship with God, and who no longer dread him as a stern judge
of sinners, but revere him as their reconciled and loving Father
3d) the Father of Jesus Christ, as one whom God has united to himself in the closest bond of
love and intimacy, made acquainted with his purposes, appointed to explain and carry out
among men the plan of salvation, and made to share also in his own divine nature
3d1) by Jesus Christ himself
3d2) by the apostles
I think when we speak of something it is always what the intent that we use the word that God looks at. If we are simply referring to a biological father, God knows that. The metaphorically for 'father' that Thayer used, "the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself... one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds." This helps to understand why a true believer would reserve that spiritual title only when speaking of our heavenly Father, only He deserves that kind of title from us.
Now here you will see what I believe this Scripture is referring to. The Pope of the Roman Catholic Church is addressed as Holy Father, a priest is usually referred to as Father or even as Reverend Father. Religious priests (members of religious orders) are addressed "Father" in all countries (Père, Pater, Padre etc.). In the Greek-Catholic Church, all clergy are called "Father" including deacons, who are titled "Father Deacon," "Deacon Father," or simply "Father". (From Wikipedia)
To me the way the churches are using the title 'father' is giving a man the respect and title only the heavenly Father deserves. It's just wrong and no justification for it.
mercy, peace and love
Kat