Renewing Your Mind
Fearing God as Father
Feb 11, 2025
Michael Reeves, president and theology professor at Union School of Theology, explores the transformative concept of God as both Creator and loving Father. He discusses how Jesus’ redemption reshapes our understanding from a distant deity to an intimate relationship, highlighting the shift from fear to love. Reeves differentiates between healthy filial fear—rooted in reverence—and debilitating dread, encouraging listeners to embrace awe and appreciation for God's character. This enlightening dialogue reinforces the gospel's power in nurturing a profound faith experience.
26:26
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Quick takeaways
- Understanding God as a loving Father transforms fear from mere dread into a loving reverence focused on avoiding sin.
- A comprehensive view of the Gospel, emphasizing Christ's redemptive work, is essential for cultivating a healthy filial fear among believers.
Deep dives
The Nature of Filial Fear
Filial fear is characterized as a deep adoration of God that focuses on dreading sin rather than punishment. This perspective emphasizes the relationship between believers and God, acknowledging Him as a loving Father, which transforms the nature of fear from mere dread into a loving reverence. Understanding God as Father, particularly in the context of redemption through Christ, enriches the believer's experience, leading to a more profound and joyful sense of fear. This type of fear is not about being terrified of God’s judgment but rather about having a sincere desire to avoid sin due to the love for God.
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