The Foundation of Wisdom – “The Fear of God” Basic Truths God wants His People to Know, Part 9 By Pastor Dan Kennedy © April 8, 2018 www.pastorkennedy.com We do not hear much about the Fear of the Lord these days. If people talk about God, most want to talk of God’s Love – which certainly God is the purest, most compete Love that could ever be found or demonstrated; but, somehow, through the world’s impossible quest (indiscriminate of who is judging) for unaccountable, total-tolerant, non-discriminatory love (that we irresponsibly equate with God’s profound Love) we have lost the very foundation of what the most ancient and kingly wisdom known to humankind has expressed to be true: “The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom.” Job (from the oldest known book of the Bible)  Job 28:28 28 And he said to man, “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” King David (known by many to be the greatest king – and progenitor of the Messiah)  Psalm 111:10 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise. King Solomon (known to be the wisest king)  Proverbs 1:7 (ESV) 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. What is the “Fear of the Lord?” This subject is profound and incomprehensible to humanity’s limited mind and carnal heart, without the illumination of the Spirit of God. Today we will briefly explore three aspects of the Fear of the Lord, from both the Old and New Testaments. Godly Fear (or the lack of it) Profoundly Affects at least Three Critical Areas in Our Lives 1. The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul. 2. The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life. 3. The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God. Let’s begin looking at: 1. The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul. We don’t like to talk about Hell; in fact, we often avoid the subject. Jesus and the Scripture are not shy about revealing the truth that there is a hell and that those who reject God’s Gift of Eternal Life through the Redemptive Sacrifice of Jesus Christ will be condemned to hell. There are numerous passages in the Old Testament referring to hell, as either the place of the departed dead, and/or the place of the wicked dead. The following are some of the New Testament passages referring to eternal judgment and hell: See Matthew 3:10-12; 7:21-23; 13:39-42, 47-50; 18:9; 23:33; 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-45; Luke 16:13-31; John 16:8; Acts 24:25; Romans 2:2-5; 2 Thessalonians 1:8; James 3:6; Hebrews 6:2; 9:27; 10:26-31; 2 Peter 2:9; 3:7; Jude 6-7; Revelation 19:20; 20:10-20; 21:7-8. If one chooses to not Fear God, then that same person will conclude that there is no reason for them to fear hell either. Proverbs 14:2 2 He whose walk is upright fears the Lord, but he whose ways are devious despises him. What does the Bible say will be the eternal outcome for a person who does not Fear God? Salvation is Fundamental to Godly Fear All other aspects of the Fear of God are conditional on whether or not a person has accepted God’s Gift of Eternal Life and has been redeemed by the Precious Blood of Christ, being spiritually Born Again through His Holy Spirit. Without acceptance of God’s Provision of Salvation, then that person reveals that no matter what else they may say or the multitude of good things they do, they have no basis to live a life out of respect or the fear of God. God’s Only Path to Peace with Himself and Eternal Life, is through Jesus Christ John 1:29 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 3:3 3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” John 3:16–18 16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:36 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.” John 14:6 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 11:25–26 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” John 20:31 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. Acts 4:12 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” (See also Is. 53:4-6; Luke 24:46–47; Acts 10:43; Rom. 3:22-24; 5:1-2, 6-9; 10:9-10; Gal 2:16; Heb. 9:11-15; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Rev. 1:5b; 5:9-10; etc., etc.) Those Who Reject God’s Provision of Salvation through Christ, the Messiah Should Fear: Luke 12:4–5 4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him. Therefore, we can conclude that The Fear of God is very critical in the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul There are also practical aspects of the Fear of God, because how we live reveals whom we fear. If we say we are a Believer in Christ and continue to cheat, steal, lie, and/or commit adultery, etc., then we reveal we do not fear God in our daily life. We will then reap the whirlwind that we have sown. 2. The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life. How will the Fear of God (or the lack of it) practically affect our daily activities, work and relationships? How will it affect a good name, God’s blessing on our activities, and an honorable and desirable relationship with those around us? How does… o Defrauding, o Stealing and Robing or o Holding Back Wages affect our business and personal relationships? Leviticus 19:13 13 “Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him. “Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight. What does disrespect and shaming the disadvantaged reveal about our character? o Cursing the Deaf, o Causing the Blind to Stumble Leviticus 19:14 13 “ ‘Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him. “ ‘Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight. 14 “ ‘Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the Lord. o Respect and Honor for the Elderly Leviticus 19:32 (ESV) 32 “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. o Taking Advantage of Each Other. Leviticus 25:17 17 Do not take advantage of each other, but fear your God. I am the Lord your God. We should reflect the Fear of God in our Business and Personal Relationships. o Irresponsibly Charging Interest to Family? Fear Your God! Leviticus 25:35–36 35 “ ‘If one of your countrymen becomes poor and is unable to support himself among you, help him as you would an alien or a temporary resident, so he can continue to live among you. 36 Do not take interest of any kind from him, but fear your God, so that your countryman may continue to live among you. o Don’t Rule over Others Ruthlessly Fear Your God Leviticus 25:42–43 42 Because the Israelites are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt, they must not be sold as slaves. 43 Do not rule over them ruthlessly, but fear your God. o Judge Justly in the Fear of God Fear Your God 2 Chronicles 19:6–7 (ESV) 6 and said to the judges, “Consider what you do, for you judge not for man but for the Lord. He is with you in giving judgment. 7 Now then, let the fear of the Lord be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the Lord our God, or partiality or taking bribes.” Respecting and Fearing God Guides and Directs a Person to make Wise and Healthy Decisions in their Business and Personal Relationships. God’s Blessing is On Those Who Fear Him and Put their Trust in Him This blessing from God is originated from an inner peace and confidence in one’s relationship with God, whether or not one is always seen to be “successful” from a world’s vantage point. Psalm 34:9–10 9 Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. Psalm 25:14 (ESV) 14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant. Psalm 33:18 18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, Psalm 34:7 7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. Psalm 103:11–14 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; 14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. Psalm 145:19 19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. Isaiah 50:10 10 Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant? Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God. Godly Fear (or the lack of it) Profoundly Affects Each Person 1. The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul. 2. The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life. 3. The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God. A Healthy Relationship with God is Similar to A Healthy Relationship between a Husband and Wife… after all, Marriage is like Christ and the Church (Eph. 5:32) If a couple doesn’t have a right relationship with each other it doesn’t matter where they are or what house they live in, how successful or unsuccessful they are, how many things they have or don’t have, or what they are doing or not doing, their relationship with each other will probably and eventually continue to deteriorate and seem to even be valueless, becoming divisive or destructive, unless something radically changes. It depends on a serious restructuring of their attitude and relationship together. It depends on each of their relationships with God and a healthy love and respect for each other. It depends on each’s healthy respect and fear of God. Our Relationship with God If an individual doesn’t have a right relationship with God it doesn’t matter where he or she is or lives, how successful or unsuccessful they are, how many things they have or don’t have, or what they are doing or not doing. Their relationship with God (if they feel they have any relationship with Him), will probably and eventually continue to deteriorate and seem to be valueless and can even regress into a strong animosity (especially if God doesn’t answer their prayers the way they like) and become divisive or even destructive, unless something radically changes. It depends on the person’s relationship with Christ and his or her growing healthy respect and fear of God in their heart. The Amazing and Powerful Gift of Direct Communication which God Gave His Children How did God communicate with His people in the Old Testament, before Christ came? In the Old Testament God’s people relied on direct communication with God through o Miraculous signs from God, o Dreams from God, o A prophetic word from God, (100% accuracy required – Deut. 18:22) o or the priest’s answer before God by Urim and Thummim. (Ex. 38:30; Num. 27:21; 1 Sam. 14:41) 1 Samuel 28:6 6 He (King Saul) inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets. Psalm 74:9 9 We are given no miraculous signs; no prophets are left, and none of us knows how long this will be. God’s Communication with Humankind Changed with the Coming of Christ and the Gift of the Holy Spirit After the Coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, those who have been Born Again into God’s Family through Christ’s Sacrifice, become the Temple of the Holy Spirit and have Communication with God, through: God’s Holy Spirit,   God’s Word, and   Prayer  1 Corinthians 3:16 16 Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. We, in this New Covenant of Grace, now have multiple ways through which we can Commune with God in our Daily Life. Ways we learn to Fear and Honorably Respect God Listen: Be sensitive to a healthy Conscience and the promptings of God’s Holy Spirit;   Learn: Observe and follow the teaching of those you honorably respect who Fear God, and teach His Word; then, strive to Obey;   Study: “Study to show yourself approved unto God” (2 Tim. 2:15) – Immerse yourself and learn the truth of The Word of God for yourself;   Respond honorably: Personal Discipline is sure to come, because we are all in need of correction, so endure patiently that which is from your Heavenly Father (Heb. 12:3-11);  Endure: Trust God to give you strength through the sorrows and trials of life, which are also sure to come (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:3-9; 4:12-19);  Enjoy: Appreciate the Blessings which God gives you, and as you enjoy, do not forget to continue to have a deep respect and appreciation for God. Use His blessings to you for His Glory (Deut. 6:10–13)  Rejoice: in the fulfillment God gives you in a deepening Relationship with Himself.  Living as Children of Light – Grieve Not the Spirit of God, Fear God Ephesians 4:17–32 17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. 20 You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21 Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul. The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life. The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God. The Conclusion of the Matter Ecclesiastes 12:13 13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. ______________ ENDNOTES Psalm 15 A psalm of David. 1 Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? 2 He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart 3 and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, 4 who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the Lord, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, 5 who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things will never be shaken. o Remember What God has Done for You in the Past, Teach Your Children to Fear God! Deuteronomy 6:20–24 20 In the future, when your son asks you, “What is the meaning of the stipulations, decrees and laws the Lord our God has commanded you?” 21 tell him: “We were slaves of Pharaoh in Egypt, but the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 22 Before our eyes the Lord sent miraculous signs and wonders—great and terrible—upon Egypt and Pharaoh and his whole household. 23 But he brought us out from there to bring us in and give us the land that he promised on oath to our forefathers. 24 The Lord commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear the Lord our God, so that we might always prosper and be kept alive, as is the case today. o Do What God Asks You to Do: Fear Him Deuteronomy 10:12–15 12 And now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13 and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good? 14 To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. 15 Yet the Lord set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today. o When God Blesses You, Do Not Forget to Fear the Lord in Your Prosperity Deuteronomy 6:10–13 10 When the Lord your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you—a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, 11 houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant—then when you eat and are satisfied, 12 be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 13 Fear the Lord your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name. o Taking Vengeance doesn’t work – Let God Do It. Hebrews 10:30–31 (ESV) 30 For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. God-Fearing Job 1:1 1 In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil. Job 28:28 (ESV) 28 And he said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’ ” 1 Kings 18:2–4 (ESV) 2 So Elijah went to show himself to Ahab. Now the famine was severe in Samaria. 3 And Ahab called Obadiah, who was over the household. (Now Obadiah feared the Lord greatly, 4 and when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, Obadiah took a hundred prophets and hid them by fifties in a cave and fed them with bread and water.) 2 Chronicles 26:5 5 He (King Uzziah) sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God (Joash was also instructed in 2 Chron. 24:2). As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success. Acts 10:1–2 1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. Acts 13:26 26 “Brothers, children of Abraham, and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent. Hebrews 11:7 7 By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy (reverent) fear2125 built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. 2125 εὐλαβέομαι [eulabeomai /yoo·lab·eh·om·ahee/] v. Middle voice from 2126; TDNT 2:751; GK 2326; Two occurrences; AV translates as “fearing” once, and “moved with fear” once. 1 to act cautiously, circumspectly. 2 to beware, fear. 3 to reverence, stand in awe of.* *(All Hebrew and Greek word definitions in this study from: Strong, J. (1995) Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon - Woodside Bible Fellowship) 1 Peter 2:16–17 16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear5399 God, honor the king. 5399 φοβέομαι, φοβέω [phobeo /fob·eh·o/] v. 93 occurrences; AV translates as “fear” 62 times, “be afraid” 23 times, “be afraid of” five times, “reverence” once, and translated miscellaneously twice. 1 to put to flight by terrifying (to scare away). 1a to put to flight, to flee. 1b to fear, be afraid. 1b1 to be struck with fear, to be seized with alarm. 1b1a of those startled by strange sights or occurrences. 1b1b of those struck with amazement. 1b2 to fear, be afraid of one. 1b3 to fear (i.e. hesitate) to do something (for fear of harm). 1c to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or reverential obedience. Traits of Those Who Do Not Fear God Psalm 36:1–4 1 An oracle is within my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin. 3 The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful; he has ceased to be wise and to do good. 4 Even on his bed he plots evil; he commits himself to a sinful course and does not reject what is wrong. The Unrighteous Do Not Have the Fear of God Romans 3:9–18 9 What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. 10 As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; 11 there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. 12 All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.” 13 “Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit.” “The poison of vipers is on their lips.” 14 “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.” 15 “Their feet are swift to shed blood; 16 ruin and misery mark their ways, 17 and the way of peace they do not know.” 18 “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Do Not Fear These Genesis 26:24 24 That night the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid (fear not), for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.” Deuteronomy 31:6 6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Exodus 1:16–17 16 “When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.” 17 The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live. Other Aspects of Godly Fear 2 Corinthians 5:10–11 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 5401 φόβος [phobos /fob·os/] n m. From a primary phebomai (to be put in fear); 1 fear, dread, terror. 1a that which strikes terror. 2 reverence for one’s husband. 2 Corinthians 7:1–2 (ESV) Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God. 2 Make room in your hearts for us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have taken advantage of no one. Revelation 14:6–7 6 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7 He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.” The Conclusion of the Matter Ecclesiastes 12:13 13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.

The Foundation of Wisdom – “The Fear of God”

Basic Truths God wants His People to Know, Part 9

By Pastor Dan Kennedy

www.pastorkennedy.com

We do not hear much about the Fear of the Lord these days. If people talk about God, most want to talk of God’s Love – which certainly God is the purest, most compete Love that could ever be found or demonstrated; but, somehow, through the world’s impossible quest (indiscriminate of who is judging) for unaccountable, total-tolerant, non-discriminatory love (that we irresponsibly equate with God’s profound Love) we have lost the very foundation of what the most ancient and kingly wisdom known to humankind has expressed to be true:

“The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom.”

•Job (from the oldest known book of the Bible)

Job 28:28

28 And he said to man,

“The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom,

and to shun evil is understanding.”

•King David (known by many to be the greatest king – and progenitor of the Messiah)

Psalm 111:10

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;

all who follow his precepts have good understanding.

To him belongs eternal praise.

•King Solomon (known to be the wisest king)

Proverbs 1:7 (ESV)

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;

fools despise wisdom and instruction.

What is the “Fear of the Lord?”

This subject is profound and incomprehensible to humanity’s limited mind and carnal heart, without the illumination of the Spirit of God.

Today we will briefly explore three aspects of the Fear of the Lord, from both the Old and New Testaments.

Godly Fear (or the lack of it) Profoundly Affects at least Three Critical Areas in Our Lives

1.The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul.

2.The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life.

3.The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God.

Let’s begin looking at:

1.The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul.

We don’t like to talk about Hell; in fact, we often avoid the subject.

Jesus and the Scripture are not shy about revealing the truth that there is a hell and that those who reject God’s Gift of Eternal Life through the Redemptive Sacrifice of Jesus Christ will be condemned to hell.

There are numerous passages in the Old Testament referring to hell, as either the place of the departed dead, and/or the place of the wicked dead. The following are some of the New Testament passages referring to eternal judgment and hell:

See Matthew 3:10-12; 7:21-23; 13:39-42, 47-50; 18:9; 23:33; 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-45; Luke 16:13-31; John 16:8; Acts 24:25; Romans 2:2-5; 2 Thessalonians 1:8; James 3:6; Hebrews 6:2; 9:27; 10:26-31; 2 Peter 2:9; 3:7; Jude 6-7; Revelation 19:20; 20:10-20; 21:7-8.

If one chooses to not Fear God, then that same person will conclude that there is no reason for them to fear hell either.

Proverbs 14:2

2 He whose walk is upright fears the Lord,

but he whose ways are devious despises him.

What does the Bible say will be the eternal outcome for a person who does not Fear God?

Salvation is Fundamental to Godly Fear

All other aspects of the Fear of God are conditional on whether or not a person has accepted God’s Gift of Eternal Life and has been redeemed by the Precious Blood of Christ, being spiritually Born Again through His Holy Spirit. Without acceptance of God’s Provision of Salvation, then that person reveals that no matter what else they may say or the multitude of good things they do, they have no basis to live a life out of respect or the fear of God.

God’s Only Path to Peace with Himself and Eternal Life, is through Jesus Christ

John 1:29

29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

John 3:3

3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.”

John 3:16–18

16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

John 3:36

36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.”

John 14:6

6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 11:25–26

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

John 20:31

31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

Acts 4:12

12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”

(See also Is. 53:4-6; Luke 24:46–47; Acts 10:43; Rom. 3:22-24; 5:1-2, 6-9; 10:9-10; Gal 2:16; Heb. 9:11-15; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Rev. 1:5b; 5:9-10; etc., etc.)

Those Who Reject God’s Provision of Salvation through Christ, the Messiah Should Fear:

Luke 12:4–5

4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him.

Therefore, we can conclude that The Fear of God is very critical in the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul

There are also practical aspects of the Fear of God, because how we live reveals whom we fear. If we say we are a Believer in Christ and continue to cheat, steal, lie, and/or commit adultery, etc., then we reveal we do not fear God in our daily life. We will then reap the whirlwind that we have sown.

2.The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life.

How will the Fear of God (or the lack of it) practically affect our daily activities, work and relationships? How will it affect a good name, God’s blessing on our activities, and an honorable and desirable relationship with those around us?

How does…

oDefrauding,

oStealing and Robing or

oHolding Back Wages

affect our business and personal relationships?

Leviticus 19:13

13 “Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him.

“Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight.

What does disrespect and shaming the disadvantaged reveal about our character?

oCursing the Deaf,

oCausing the Blind to Stumble

Leviticus 19:14

13 “ ‘Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him.

“ ‘Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight.

14 “ ‘Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the Lord.

oRespect and Honor for the Elderly

Leviticus 19:32 (ESV)

32 “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.

oTaking Advantage of Each Other.

Leviticus 25:17

17 Do not take advantage of each other, but fear your God. I am the Lord your God.

We should reflect the Fear of God in our Business and Personal Relationships.

oIrresponsibly Charging Interest to Family?

Fear Your God!

Leviticus 25:35–36

35 “ ‘If one of your countrymen becomes poor and is unable to support himself among you, help him as you would an alien or a temporary resident, so he can continue to live among you. 36 Do not take interest of any kind from him, but fear your God, so that your countryman may continue to live among you.

oDon’t Rule over Others Ruthlessly

Fear Your God

Leviticus 25:42–43

42 Because the Israelites are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt, they must not be sold as slaves. 43 Do not rule over them ruthlessly, but fear your God.

oJudge Justly in the Fear of God

Fear Your God

2 Chronicles 19:6–7 (ESV)

6 and said to the judges, “Consider what you do, for you judge not for man but for the Lord. He is with you in giving judgment. 7 Now then, let the fear of the Lord be upon you. Be careful what you do, for there is no injustice with the Lord our God, or partiality or taking bribes.”

Respecting and Fearing God Guides and Directs a Person to make Wise and Healthy Decisions in their Business and Personal Relationships.

God’s Blessing is On Those Who Fear Him and Put their Trust in Him

This blessing from God is originated from an inner peace and confidence in one’s relationship with God, whether or not one is always seen to be “successful” from a world’s vantage point.

Psalm 34:9–10

9 Fear the Lord, you his saints,

for those who fear him lack nothing.

10 The lions may grow weak and hungry,

but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Psalm 25:14 (ESV)

14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him,

and he makes known to them his covenant.

Psalm 33:18

18 But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him,

on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,

Psalm 34:7

7 The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him,

and he delivers them.

Psalm 103:11–14

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,

so great is his love for those who fear him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,

so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

13 As a father has compassion on his children,

so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;

14 for he knows how we are formed,

he remembers that we are dust.

Psalm 145:19

19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;

he hears their cry and saves them.

Isaiah 50:10

10 Who among you fears the Lord

and obeys the word of his servant?

Let him who walks in the dark,

who has no light,

trust in the name of the Lord

and rely on his God.

Godly Fear (or the lack of it) Profoundly Affects Each Person

1. The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul.

2. The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life.

3.The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God.

A Healthy Relationship with God is Similar to A Healthy Relationship between a Husband and Wife… after all, Marriage is like Christ and the Church (Eph. 5:32)

If a couple doesn’t have a right relationship with each other it doesn’t matter where they are or what house they live in, how successful or unsuccessful they are, how many things they have or don’t have, or what they are doing or not doing, their relationship with each other will probably and eventually continue to deteriorate and seem to even be valueless, becoming divisive or destructive, unless something radically changes. It depends on a serious restructuring of their attitude and relationship together. It depends on each of their relationships with God and a healthy love and respect for each other. It depends on each’s healthy respect and fear of God.

Our Relationship with God

If an individual doesn’t have a right relationship with God it doesn’t matter where he or she is or lives, how successful or unsuccessful they are, how many things they have or don’t have, or what they are doing or not doing. Their relationship with God (if they feel they have any relationship with Him), will probably and eventually continue to deteriorate and seem to be valueless and can even regress into a strong animosity (especially if God doesn’t answer their prayers the way they like) and become divisive or even destructive, unless something radically changes. It depends on the person’s relationship with Christ and his or her growing healthy respect and fear of God in their heart.

The Amazing and Powerful Gift of Direct Communication which God Gave His Children

How did God communicate with His people in the Old Testament, before Christ came?

In the Old Testament God’s people relied on direct communication with God through

oMiraculous signs from God,

oDreams from God,

oA prophetic word from God, (100% accuracy required – Deut. 18:22)

oor the priest’s answer before God by Urim and Thummim. (Ex. 38:30; Num. 27:21; 1 Sam. 14:41)

1 Samuel 28:6

6 He (King Saul) inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets.

Psalm 74:9

9 We are given no miraculous signs; no prophets are left,

and none of us knows how long this will be.

God’s Communication with Humankind Changed with the Coming of Christ and the Gift of the Holy Spirit

After the Coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, those who have been Born Again into God’s Family through Christ’s Sacrifice, become the Temple of the Holy Spirit and have Communication with God, through:

•God’s Holy Spirit,
•God’s Word, and
•Prayer

1 Corinthians 3:16

16 Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you?

1 Corinthians 6:19–20

19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

We, in this New Covenant of Grace, now have multiple ways through which we can Commune with God in our Daily Life.

Ways we learn to Fear and Honorably Respect God

•Listen: Be sensitive to a healthy Conscience and the promptings of God’s Holy Spirit;
•Learn: Observe and follow the teaching of those you honorably respect who Fear God, and teach His Word; then, strive to Obey;
•Study: “Study to show yourself approved unto God” (2 Tim. 2:15) – Immerse yourself and learn the truth of The Word of God for yourself;
•Respond honorably: Personal Discipline is sure to come, because we are all in need of correction, so endure patiently that which is from your Heavenly Father (Heb. 12:3-11);
•Endure: Trust God to give you strength through the sorrows and trials of life, which are also sure to come (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:3-9; 4:12-19);
•Enjoy: Appreciate the Blessings which God gives you, and as you enjoy, do not forget to continue to have a deep respect and appreciation for God. Use His blessings to you for His Glory (Deut. 6:10–13)
•Rejoice: in the fulfillment God gives you in a deepening Relationship with Himself.

Living as Children of Light – Grieve Not the Spirit of God, Fear God

Ephesians 4:17–32

17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.

20 You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21 Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

1.The Fear of God directly relates to Either the Condemnation, or the Spiritual Redemption of our Soul.

2.The Fear of God has consequences on the Commerce (Business), and the Relationships in our Daily Life.

3.The Fear of God has a profound impact on the Communion of our Spirit with God.

The Conclusion of the Matter

Ecclesiastes 12:13

13 Now all has been heard;

here is the conclusion of the matter:

Fear God and keep his commandments,

for this is the whole duty of man.

______________

ENDNOTES

Psalm 15

A psalm of David.

1 Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary?

Who may live on your holy hill?

2 He whose walk is blameless

and who does what is righteous,

who speaks the truth from his heart

3 and has no slander on his tongue,

who does his neighbor no wrong

and casts no slur on his fellowman,

4 who despises a vile man

but honors those who fear the Lord,

who keeps his oath even when it hurts,

5 who lends his money without usury

and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

He who does these things will never be shaken.

oRemember What God has Done for You in the Past, Teach Your Children to Fear God!

Deuteronomy 6:20–24

20 In the future, when your son asks you, “What is the meaning of the stipulations, decrees and laws the Lord our God has commanded you?” 21 tell him: “We were slaves of Pharaoh in Egypt, but the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 22 Before our eyes the Lord sent miraculous signs and wonders—great and terrible—upon Egypt and Pharaoh and his whole household. 23 But he brought us out from there to bring us in and give us the land that he promised on oath to our forefathers. 24 The Lord commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear the Lord our God, so that we might always prosper and be kept alive, as is the case today.

oDo What God Asks You to Do: Fear Him

Deuteronomy 10:12–15

12 And now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 13 and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?

14 To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. 15 Yet the Lord set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today.

oWhen God Blesses You, Do Not Forget to Fear the Lord in Your Prosperity

Deuteronomy 6:10–13

10 When the Lord your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you—a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, 11 houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant—then when you eat and are satisfied, 12 be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

13 Fear the Lord your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name.

oTaking Vengeance doesn’t work – Let God Do It.

Hebrews 10:30–31 (ESV)

30 For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

God-Fearing

Job 1:1

1 In the land of Uz there lived a man whose name was Job. This man was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil.

Job 28:28 (ESV)

28 And he said to man,

‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom,

and to turn away from evil is understanding.’ ”

1 Kings 18:2–4 (ESV)

2 So Elijah went to show himself to Ahab. Now the famine was severe in Samaria. 3 And Ahab called Obadiah, who was over the household. (Now Obadiah feared the Lord greatly, 4 and when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, Obadiah took a hundred prophets and hid them by fifties in a cave and fed them with bread and water.)

2 Chronicles 26:5

5 He (King Uzziah) sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God (Joash was also instructed in 2 Chron. 24:2). As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success.

Acts 10:1–2

1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.

Acts 13:26

26 “Brothers, children of Abraham, and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.

Hebrews 11:7

7 By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy (reverent) fear2125 built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

2125 εὐλαβέομαι [eulabeomai /yoo·lab·eh·om·ahee/] v. Middle voice from 2126; TDNT 2:751; GK 2326; Two occurrences; AV translates as “fearing” once, and “moved with fear” once. 1 to act cautiously, circumspectly. 2 to beware, fear. 3 to reverence, stand in awe of.*

*(All Hebrew and Greek word definitions in this study from: Strong, J. (1995) Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon - Woodside Bible Fellowship)

1 Peter 2:16–17

16 Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. 17 Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear5399 God, honor the king.

5399 φοβέομαι, φοβέω [phobeo /fob·eh·o/] v. 93 occurrences; AV translates as “fear” 62 times, “be afraid” 23 times, “be afraid of” five times, “reverence” once, and translated miscellaneously twice. 1 to put to flight by terrifying (to scare away). 1a to put to flight, to flee. 1b to fear, be afraid. 1b1 to be struck with fear, to be seized with alarm. 1b1a of those startled by strange sights or occurrences. 1b1b of those struck with amazement. 1b2 to fear, be afraid of one. 1b3 to fear (i.e. hesitate) to do something (for fear of harm). 1c to reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or reverential obedience.

Traits of Those Who Do Not Fear God

Psalm 36:1–4

1 An oracle is within my heart

concerning the sinfulness of the wicked:

There is no fear of God before his eyes.

2 For in his own eyes he flatters himself

too much to detect or hate his sin.

3 The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful;

he has ceased to be wise and to do good.

4 Even on his bed he plots evil;

he commits himself to a sinful course

and does not reject what is wrong.

The Unrighteous Do Not Have the Fear of God

Romans 3:9–18

9 What shall we conclude then? Are we any better? Not at all! We have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. 10 As it is written:

“There is no one righteous, not even one;

11 there is no one who understands,

no one who seeks God.

12 All have turned away,

they have together become worthless;

there is no one who does good,

not even one.”

13 “Their throats are open graves;

their tongues practice deceit.”

“The poison of vipers is on their lips.”

14 “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”

15 “Their feet are swift to shed blood;

16 ruin and misery mark their ways,

17 and the way of peace they do not know.”

18 “There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

Do Not Fear These

Genesis 26:24

24 That night the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid (fear not), for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Exodus 1:16–17

16 “When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.” 17 The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live.

Other Aspects of Godly Fear

2 Corinthians 5:10–11

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience.

5401 φόβος [phobos /fob·os/] n m. From a primary phebomai (to be put in fear); 1 fear, dread, terror. 1a that which strikes terror. 2 reverence for one’s husband.

2 Corinthians 7:1–2 (ESV)

Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.

2 Make room in your hearts for us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have taken advantage of no one.