FEAR OF THE LORD, Part 2

01/28/2026

Is fear of the Lord a command?

Before we dissect that question, we must first determine whether we should truly fear God. As usual, we must go to scripture for the answer.

Depending on the translation, the NIV Bible tells us—about 350 times—and “fear not” appears in almost 175 verses in the KJV Bible, while the NKJV encourages us to “fear God” 134 times. I have heard from many pastors that “if something in scripture is mentioned many times, that means it is very important.” With that said, and what I read in scripture, it does seem to be a command.

“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” 1 Peter 2:17.

“My son, fear the Lord.” Proverbs 24:21.

“For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all gods.” 1 Chronicles 16:25.

“You shall fear your God, for I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 25:17.

Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. Ecclesiastes 12:13.

Therefore, you shall keep the commandments of the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and to fear Him. Deuteronomy 8:6.

You shall fear only the Lord your God; and you shall worship Him and swear by His name. Deuteronomy 6:13.

But the Lord your God you shall fear; and He will deliver you from the hand of all your enemies.” 2 Kings 17:39.

Finally, fearing God and keeping His commandments are repeated themes throughout the Bible (such as in Deuteronomy 6:2; 10:12; John 14:15)

What is fear?

Ecclesiastes closes with a solemn call to fear God, obey His Word, and live in reverent awareness of His coming judgment. “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.

What does it mean to fear the Lord? When Scripture calls us to keep the “fear of the Lord” always before us, it speaks of a deep respect, reverence, and holy awe for our heavenly Father. This fear is not a terror that drives us away from God, but a reverence that draws us closer to Him. A proper fear of the Lord causes us to love God more and fear Him less, cultivating trust, devotion, and obedience.

Throughout Scripture, the fear of God and obedience to His commandments stand at the heart of the biblical story. They shape the lives of believers and guide their relationship with God. Through respectful fear and faithful obedience, believers demonstrate their commitment to Him, reflect His character, and participate in the fulfillment of His purposes in the world, drawing us closer to Him.

Just as “repent” is not technically listed as a command to follow, neither is “fear of the Lord.”