I think your friend got it right--I think turning around that statement to "I don't think I'm ready for fatherhood" is what he was really saying.
He went through some heavy duty guy emotions--working extra hours at a job he hates, etc. Many people approach parenthood with ambivolence. Men especially.
Well, that is the past and winning back your H is the thing to focus on now. The statements are very, very important. The intent behind them must be felt. If it is true, he can tell.
