Questions & Answers - Good News Staff - June 1976

Good News Staff

QUESTION: "What does the Bible mean when it says we should fear God? Does it mean that we should be afraid of Him?" ANSWER: The term "fear" as used in the Bible can encompass a sense of awe, respect and reverence for God, as well as fear of the consequences of disobeying Him. The Bible says that this fear is only the beginning of wisdom (Prov. 1:7). When we are "babes in Christ," just coming into a knowledge of God's truth, we may be mainly motivated by fear of the punishment God will bring on those who don't keep His laws (Rev. 20:14-15). But as we grow in understanding, we will be motivated more by love for God and love for our neighbor than by fear of retribution. - Information Supplied By: Herbert W Armstrong Library