The term “fear” in Scripture often refers not simply to being afraid, but to a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God’s holiness, power, and authority. This is especially true when we encounter phrases like “the fear of the Lord”—it signifies a heart posture that acknowledges who God truly is and responds with humility, obedience, and worship.
Let’s explore what this means using several passages from the Bible.
1. Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
Here, the Apostle Paul calls believers to mutual submission—not from compulsion, but from a shared fear (or reverence) for Christ. This fear isn’t terror, but rather awe of Christ’s lordship that leads us to treat others with respect and humility.
2. 2 Samuel 23:3 (NIV)
“The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: ‘When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God…’”
In this verse, the “fear of God” is presented as a necessary quality for righteous leadership. It implies governing with integrity, justice, and a constant awareness of being accountable to God.
The Fear of the Lord in the Early Church
Acts 9:31 (NIV)
“Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.”
The early Church thrived spiritually and numerically as believers lived in the fear of the Lord. Their reverence for God fostered unity, obedience, and spiritual growth, all while being empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The Fear of the Lord Brings Worship and Obedience
Hebrews 12:28 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”
Here, “reverence and awe” are equivalent to the fear of the Lord. Our worship should not be casual or thoughtless, but should stem from gratitude and recognition of God’s unshakable majesty.
Fear of the Lord Prevents Sin
Without the fear of God in our hearts, we become prone to sin—whether lying, stealing, sexual immorality, or worse. A person who does not fear God will live without boundaries. But when the fear of God dwells within us, we are cautious not to displease Him, knowing He is a righteous judge who sees all and will hold us accountable.
Jeremiah 5:22-24 (NIV)
“Should you not fear me?” declares the Lord. “Should you not tremble in my presence?… But these people have stubborn and rebellious hearts; they have turned aside and gone away. They do not say to themselves, ‘Let us fear the Lord our God, who gives autumn and spring rains in season, who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest.’”
These verses show God’s disappointment in a people who have lost their fear of Him. Despite His providence, they rebel. This warns us of the danger of taking God’s mercy and power lightly.
Other Supporting Scriptures
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Deuteronomy 7:21 – We are told not to fear enemies, because God is with us, mighty and awesome.
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Deuteronomy 28:67 – Describes the dreadful fear that comes as a curse for disobedience.
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Job 15:4 – Rebukes the person who undermines the fear of God and restrains prayer.
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2 Samuel 23:3 – Shows that just leadership is rooted in the fear of God.
Conclusion: The Fear of the Lord Leads to Godly Living
The fear of the Lord is not the fear of punishment alone, but a holy, reverent awe of God that leads to wisdom, obedience, and worship. As Proverbs 9:10 (NIV) says:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
Let us therefore pray that the Lord will instill His fear within us—so that we may walk uprightly, serve Him faithfully, and reflect His holiness in our daily lives.
May the fear of God shape our hearts, decisions, and relationships. Amen.
Shalom.