Michael Reeves, president of Union School of Theology and author of several insightful works, discusses the essential nature of growing in the fear of God. He emphasizes that true reverence begins as a heart transformation through Christ, which deepens our worship and joy. The conversation explores how understanding the cross reveals both God’s justice and mercy, fostering a genuine relationship marked by awe. Reeves also addresses the societal anxieties faced by youth, providing biblical insights to inspire a holy fear that guides them towards deeper faith.
The fear of God is about heartfelt reverence rooted in love, transforming desires to delight in His commandments.
Effective Christian teaching must cultivate a healthy fear of God, emphasizing Scripture to inspire awe and reverence among believers.
Deep dives
The Nature of the Fear of God
The fear of God is described as a deep orientation of the heart rather than a simple attitude or behavior that can be achieved through external practices. It is often mistaken for mere pious actions, but true fear stems from a genuine love and adoration for God. This fear is not a source of dread but a joyful reverence that compels believers to delight in God's commandments. Real fear of God illuminates the Christian life, prompting a transformation of desires that leads to authentic godliness, as demonstrated in Psalm 112, where the blessed person who fears the Lord delights in following Him.
The Role of the Cross in Cultivating Fear
The cross of Jesus serves as the pivotal revelation of God's justice and mercy, fostering a profound sense of fear in believers that is rooted in gratitude for forgiveness. This transformative experience is central to understanding one's relationship with God, as the depth of one’s sin becomes apparent, leading to both remorse and joy. The act of receiving forgiveness prompts a crescendo of emotional responses, as seen in the story of the sinful woman who expresses deep affection for Jesus at His feet. This fear, characterized by intense love and reverence, is driven not by self-interest but by a newfound appreciation for God’s grace.
Teaching and Modeling a Right Fear of God
Effective teaching and leadership in a Christian context must aim to instill a healthy fear of God among followers, emphasizing that such fear is essential to true faith. Leaders must model this fear through their lives, creating an atmosphere that reflects awe for God’s beauty and glory. The focus of teaching should be content-rich and grounded in Scripture, as knowing God through His Word is vital for nurturing this fear. Ultimately, preaching should evoke not indifference but an engaged, reverent response, leading believers to admire and tremble before the greatness of God.
The fear of God is the heart and soul of Christian holiness. How do we grow in delightful reverence for the Lord? Today, Michael Reeves shows how cultivating awe-filled adoration begins in the heart.
Request Michael Reeves’ teaching series The Fear of the Lord on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3910/donate
Meet Today’s Teacher: Michael Reeves is president and professor of theology at Union School of Theology in the United Kingdom. He is the featured teacher for the Ligonier teaching series The English Reformation and the Puritans. He is author of many books, including The Unquenchable Flame, Delighting in the Trinity, and Rejoice and Tremble. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
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