Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Distinction:Fear and reverence are closely related concepts in the Bible, often intertwined yet distinct in their application and meaning. Fear, in a biblical context, can refer to a profound respect and awe for God, as well as a recognition of His power and authority. Reverence, on the other hand, is a deep respect and honor towards God, acknowledging His holiness and majesty.
Fear of the Lord:The "fear of the Lord" is a foundational theme throughout Scripture, signifying a proper attitude towards God. It is not merely terror or dread but a reverential awe that leads to obedience and worship.
Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This fear is the starting point for a life of wisdom and understanding, guiding believers in their walk with God.
In the Old Testament, the fear of the Lord is often associated with the covenant relationship between God and His people.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 commands, "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?" Here, fear is linked with love, service, and obedience, indicating a holistic devotion to God.
Reverence for God:Reverence is an attitude of deep respect and honor towards God, recognizing His holiness and majesty. It is often expressed in worship and the way believers approach God.
Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire." This passage highlights the appropriate response to God's unchanging nature and His consuming holiness.
Reverence is also evident in the way believers conduct themselves in God's presence. In the New Testament, reverence is seen in the early church's practices and attitudes.
Acts 2:42-43 describes the early believers: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs." The awe and reverence for God were integral to their communal life and worship.
Fear and Reverence in the Life of Jesus:Jesus exemplified both fear and reverence in His earthly ministry. He demonstrated reverence for the Father through His obedience and submission to God's will. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, "Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will" (
Mark 14:36). His submission to the Father's will reflects a profound reverence and fear of God.
Fear and Reverence in the Believer's Life:For believers, fear and reverence are essential components of their relationship with God.
Philippians 2:12-13 encourages, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." This passage underscores the importance of living out one's faith with a sense of fear and reverence, recognizing God's active role in the believer's life.
Fear and reverence also influence how believers interact with one another and the world.
1 Peter 2:17 instructs, "Treat everyone with high regard: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." This verse encapsulates the balance of fear and reverence in the believer's conduct, emphasizing respect for God and others.
Conclusion:Fear and reverence are integral to understanding the believer's relationship with God. They shape the way individuals approach God, live out their faith, and interact with the world around them. Through fear and reverence, believers acknowledge God's holiness, power, and authority, leading to a life of worship, obedience, and service.
