133 – Why does the Bible say we should fear God?

There are lots of places in the Bible where we're told we should fear God. And sometimes, God actually says, "Fear Me."

But what does it really mean to fear God? Are we actually supposed to be afraid of Him?

In this week's episode, I explore several of the different Hebrew and Greek words for "fear." All these words have slightly different meanings and some of them have double meanings of being afraid AND honor or reverence and awe.

Sometimes the same word for "fear" can have a different meaning. The way you know which one it is is the context.

Just like the word "right" can mean "correct" but it can also be the opposite of left, as in which direction to go. The word left also has another connotation, to be left behind or remain.

We know the meaning because of the context, even though the word is spelled the same way.

When an angel tells Zacharias or Mary Magdalene, "Fear not" it means not to be afraid. But when the Bible says to fear God, it means to honor and reverence Him.

How do we know? Look at Jesus. He is always the best example of how we should  think and act.

Was Jesus afraid of God? No, of course not.

He had a deep, reverent, humble, loving relationship with God.

Jesus expected us to follow his example. So, that means that we can embrace his mindset in his relationship with God.

It’s our privilege to honor, adore, revere, and love God. And never be afraid of Him.

There are lots of Bible references in this week's episode. Check them out at thebiblespeakstoyou.com/133.

If you have questions or comments ab

Text me your questions or comments.

∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞

HELP ME CELEBRATE 

Your answer will be part of Episode 300

Go to Celebrate 300 and tell me 

• Your name
• Where you're from
• Your answer to this question: If you could go back in time and talk to Jesus, what would you ask him?

I need your answer by June 13, 2025

Thanks so much!

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here