It might seem like a contradiction of sorts but I assure you its not
There are many kinds of fear. Fear is a natural emotion, and like all emotions, it can be used or abused. It can be demoniac or divine.
As far as the unbeliever is concerned, the fear of God is the fear of the judgment of God and eternal death, which is not entirely unfounded since the Bible records the Lord as saying :
This is indeed a very far cry from the image of “Gentle Jesus, meek and mild” that we have. However, the believer’s fear is reverence of God.
Indeed, it can be thought of as a sort of reverential fear and godly awe. There are two parts to the above verse. The one with the green text applies only to Christians - both Jew and Gentile (When I use the term “Christian” I refer to only those of us who believe in the resurrected Lord and try to implement His commandments in our own life). The other highlighted in red, is the nature of God. For He is not only a Saviour but also a just judge (as mentioned above)
It is worth considering that the scripture does record - “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” [2 Timothy 1:7; KJV]
The Omnipotent creator redeemed us from the clutches of the evil one, then why fear Him (the tormenting kind) ?
When the King James Bible says “Fear of the Lord”, it is referring to a virtue. The emotion is very natural considering that God is omnipotent, sovereign and our creator.
In His mercy, this was accorded not only to Israelites who believe in Him but also to Gentile believers
God Himself desires that we have the”Fear of the he Lord” for it brings us closer to His heart.
However, if we disregard his commands and oppose all His efforts to save us, then He leaves us to our own devices.
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