Why Do We Fear God When He Is Love?
The Bible, our source of spiritual truth, makes it clear that God is love (1 John 4:8). Yet, John also mentions that God is just (Romans 3:26) and our judge (Romans 14:10). This juxtaposition can leave us wondering, how can we truly love and trust in a God who demands righteousness while also being our refuge? The answer lies in understanding the different types of fear and the nature of our relationship with God.
The Nature of God's Love
Central to Christian belief is the idea that God is love (1 John 4:8). This statement is both profound and multifaceted. It speaks to God's nature as a loving entity, but it also implies a commitment to loving us fully and unconditionally. However, the Bible also presents God as a just judge (Romans 3:26). This duality can be unsettling, leading us to question whether God's love should induce any sense of fear.
Fear as a Motivator
Fear, in the biblical sense, is not the same as terror or dread. It can serve as a positive motivator, encouraging us to align our actions with His will (Hebrews 12:28-29). A reverential fear stems from a deep respect for God's character and His authority. This fear is not about being afraid of God, but rather about recognizing the gravity of pleasing Him (1 John 3:1-3).
The Parable of the King and His War
In the New Testament, Jesus gives a parable that illustrates this point. A king is preparing for war. Before engaging in battle, he considers his resources and potential allies (Luke 14:31-33). Similarly, Jesus says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). This passage shows that true discipleship involves a willingness to surrender everything to follow Christ, understanding the gravity of the relationship.
Fatherly Love
God's desire for His children is similar to a father's desire for his family. Just as a father loves his children and wants the best for them, God wants the best for us (Isaiah 63:16). This love inspires our respect and reverence, not fear or terror. For instance, some individuals might be afraid to tell their aging parents about their smoking habit, despite knowing that the parents love and care for them. This lack of fear stems from trust, much like our relationship with God (1 Peter 1:7).
A Critique of Religious Excesses
The fear of God can sometimes lead to an excessively legalistic approach to faith. A prime example of this is the description Richard Dawkins gives of the God of the Old Testament as 'jealous, proud, petty, unjust, unforgiving, and a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser' (The God Delusion, p.31). While these traits are attributed to the God of the Old Testament, the overarching message of the Bible emphasizes the fatherly love and grace of God (Matthew 6:32).
Reverential Fear and Faith
Reverential fear is a form of love that acknowledges God's authority while maintaining a sense of awe and respect (Psalms 111:10). This fear is a powerful motivator for faithful living (Psalm 119:68). It helps us to avoid sin and to seek God's righteousness (Hebrews 12:28-29). When we fear God in this way, we are expressing our deep respect for His character and His wishes for our lives.
Conclusion
God does not want us to live in terror, but to have a reverential fear of displeasing Him. This fear stems from a love that desires to align our lives with His will, guided by His grace and mercy. Understanding this distinction between terror and reverential fear can help us approach our relationship with God with a clearer, more positive perspective.