Michael Reeves, President of Union School of Theology and author of The Unquenchable Flame, joins to discuss the surprising joy found in the fear of God. He explains how redeemed believers will experience a joyful reverence in heaven, contrasting it with the dread felt by unbelievers. Delving into Jonathan Edwards' insights, he highlights the transformative power of godly affection over sinful desires. Reeves emphasizes that this fear of the Lord enhances our spiritual vitality and leads to eternal worship and adoration.
In heaven, the fear of God transforms into a joyful reverence that reflects a deep admiration for His holiness.
The fear of God acts as a catalyst for spiritual growth, expelling anxieties and igniting true love and worship in believers.
Deep dives
The Nature of Fear in Heaven versus Hell
Heaven is characterized by a joyfully ecstatic fear, while hell embodies a dread-filled existence. In heaven, the fear of God reflects a deep reverence and ecstatic joy in His presence, as saints are overwhelmed by His glory. In contrast, hell represents the culmination of sinful fears, a place of unrelieved terror where occupants seek to hide from the holiness of God. This differentiation illustrates that fear can be both a source of joy and a source of horror, depending on one's relationship with God.
The Transformative Power of the Fear of the Lord
The fear of God serves as a powerful catalyst for spiritual transformation and growth. It not only expels sinful fears and anxieties but also ignites a profound love and joy in believers, propelling them toward a deeper worship experience. This divine fear enhances the capacity for true joy, resonating with a sense of wonder and admiration for God’s glory. Just as a higher love drives out lesser affections, a deeper fear of the Lord elevates one's spiritual life, invigorating the soul.
The Eternal Glimpse of God’s Glory
In the presence of God, believers will experience an eternal, overwhelming ecstasy of joy and fear that will transform their spiritual bodies. This existence will not be defined by a fear of punishment but by a delight in God’s holiness, leading to a constant state of worship. The anticipation of such glory fuels the worship of God on earth and serves as a preview of what awaits in heaven. Ultimately, this transformation will enable believers to shine with a radiant beauty as they fully partake in the joy of God's presence.
Will the redeemed fear God in heaven? Scripture surprisingly says yes. Yet this is news of unparalleled joy. Today, Michael Reeves explains that to quake with wonder at the grace of God is to taste heaven now.
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
Register today with the discounted rate for Ligonier’s 2025 National Conference, I Will Build My Church: https://www.ligonier.org/2025 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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