Topical Bible: Fear of God: Conspicuous Instances of Those Who Feared: The Jews, in Obeying the Voice of the Lord

◄ Fear of God: Conspicuous Instances of Those Who Feared: The Jews, in Obeying the Voice of the Lord ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of the "fear of God" is a profound and recurring theme throughout the Bible, often associated with reverence, awe, and obedience to God's commandments. Among the many instances where this fear is exemplified, the Jewish people stand out as a nation that, at various pivotal moments, demonstrated a collective fear of God through their obedience to His voice.

1. The Exodus and the Giving of the Law

One of the most significant instances of the Jews fearing God is during the Exodus from Egypt and the subsequent giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. After witnessing the mighty acts of God in delivering them from slavery, the Israelites were brought to the foot of Mount Sinai. Here, they experienced a direct encounter with the divine presence, which instilled a profound fear of God in them. The Bible records this moment in Exodus 20:18-20 :

"When all the people witnessed the thunder and lightning, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain in smoke, they trembled and stood at a distance. 'Speak to us yourself, and we will listen,' they said to Moses. 'But do not let God speak to us, or we will die.' 'Do not be afraid,' Moses replied, 'for God has come to test you, so that the fear of Him may be before you, to keep you from sinning.'"

This fear led the Israelites to commit to obeying the commandments given by God through Moses, marking a foundational moment in their covenant relationship with Him.

2. The Reforms under King Josiah

Another conspicuous instance of the Jews fearing God is seen during the reign of King Josiah. Upon discovering the Book of the Law in the temple, Josiah was deeply moved and initiated a series of religious reforms to bring the nation back to the worship of Yahweh. His actions were driven by a fear of God and a desire to align the nation with His statutes. 2 Kings 22:11-13 describes Josiah's response:

"When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes and commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king: 'Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah, about the words in this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us, because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.'"

Josiah's fear of God led to a national revival, as he sought to restore the covenant and remove idolatry from the land.

3. The Return from Exile and the Rebuilding of the Temple

The return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem is another instance where the fear of God is evident. Under the leadership of figures like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the Jewish people demonstrated their reverence for God by prioritizing the restoration of His house and the observance of His laws. Ezra 3:3 highlights their commitment despite external threats:

"They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings upon it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings—even though they feared the people of the land."

This act of obedience, despite fear of opposition, underscores their reverence for God and their dedication to His worship.

4. The Observance of the Law under Nehemiah

During the time of Nehemiah, the fear of God was again evident as the people gathered to hear the Law read aloud and to renew their covenant with God. Nehemiah 8:5-6 captures the scene:

"Ezra opened the book in full view of all the people, and as he opened it, all the people stood up. Then Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God, and with their hands lifted up, all the people said, 'Amen, Amen!' Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground."

This public reading and the people's response demonstrate their reverence and commitment to obeying God's commandments, driven by a fear of the Lord.

Throughout these instances, the fear of God among the Jewish people is characterized by a deep respect for His authority, a commitment to His commandments, and a willingness to align their lives with His will. These moments serve as enduring examples of how the fear of God can lead to transformative obedience and faithfulness.

Nave's Topical Index

Haggai 1:12
Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the LORD their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him, and the people did fear before the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index