Understanding 'Be God-Fearing' and 'Fear Not' in The Bible

Serving God and the Meaning of 'Fear' in The Bible

When we examine the Scriptures, we come across phrases like 'be God-fearing' and 'fear not'. These phrases often seem contradictory, prompting questions like, 'How can one be God-fearing and yet told not to fear?' This article aims to clarify the nuances behind these phrases and provide a deeper understanding of the biblical context and its meanings.

Reverence Rather than Fear

Firstly, it is important to understand that biblical usage of the term 'fear' often conveys a sense of reverence rather than an emotion of fear. This reverence, or 'god-fearing', is not an expression of anxiety or weakness but a form of respect and awe.

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7

This passage from 2 Timothy highlights that the spirit given to believers is one of power, love, and sound mind, not one of fear. The original Greek word for 'fear' in this verse is δειλια (deilia), which means timidity, fearfulness, or cowardice. The true 'fear' that is encouraged is a reverential awe and respect for God, not an irrational or debilitating fear.

Examples from the Bible

The Bible uses different words to describe the concept of 'fear' depending on the context. Let's explore a few examples:

Noah and the Ark

"By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house by the which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith." - Hebrews 11:7

In this verse, the Greek word for 'fear' is ευλαβεομαι (eulabeomai), which carries a meaning of being circumspect or apprehensive. This type of 'fear' is actually an expression of reverence and respect for the will of God, as Noah prepared to obey God's instructions despite the unseen reality.

Fear of Death

"And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." - Hebrews 2:15

Here, the Greek word for 'fear' is φοβο (phobos), which can mean fear, dread, or terror. It is associated with fear of death and the bondage it brings. This is different from the 'fear' of reverence, as it relates more to a rational and lived experience of fear.

Conclusion

The contradiction between 'be God-fearing' and 'fear not' is resolved when we understand the different nuances of 'fear' in the biblical context. Being God-fearing is about having reverence and respect for God, while the concept of 'fear not' calls for courage and faith in the face of adversity. This understanding fosters a deeper relationship with God and encourages faithfulness and trust in His promises, as we see in Revelation 21:4: 'And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.'

May this article provide clearer insights into the use and meaning of fear in the Bible, and inspire deeper reflection and understanding.