Reformed Theology understands the Fear of the Lord not as mere terror but as a profound reverence and awe in the presence of God's glory. This posture arises from recognizing our limitations compared to God's immeasurable holiness. It is considered the foundation of knowledge and wisdom, as highlighted in Proverbs.
Biblically, the Fear of the Lord is evident from the Old Testament events like Mount Sinai, demonstrating God's unapproachable holiness, to the New Testament emphasis on working out salvation with fear and trembling, balanced by the assurance of God's grace.
Reformed Theology emphasizes that due to human depravity, genuine fear and reverence for God are gifts of the Holy Spirit. Key doctrines like God's sovereignty, unconditional election, and irresistible grace contribute to a believer's profound reverence. A crucial aspect is the balance between God's holiness, which inspires awe, and His grace in Christ, which draws us in love. Overemphasizing one without the other can lead to either despair or irreverence. Figures like John Calvin and the Puritans significantly shaped this understanding, emphasizing both God's majesty and His merciful kindness, urging believers to live in constant awareness of God's presence ("coram Deo").
Biblical fear differs from mere dread in that it is relational and transformative, leading to humility, obedience, and worship, whereas dread is often a paralyzing terror. The practical outcomes of fearing the Lord include a transformation of heart motives, ethical decision-making guided by God's presence, and a reverence-filled approach to both private devotion and corporate worship. Ultimately, this life-giving reverence anchors believers in humility and fuels their love for God.
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