fearing.ppt

Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Fearing GodThe Key to the Treasure House of Heavenby Dr. Robert Morey

Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.

Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Table of ContentsPart 1: A Modern Analysis of the Fear of GodLesson 1: What Has HappenedLesson 2: The Liberalization of ChristianityLesson 3: The Feminization of the ClergyLesson 4: The World Molding the ChurchPart 2: The Importance of Fearing GodLesson 5: How Important Is It?Lesson 6: The Importance of Wisdom


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Table of ContentsPart 3: The Nature of Fearing GodLesson 7: The Vocabulary of Fearing GodLesson 8: The Meanings of Fearing GodPart 4: The Origins of Fearing GodLesson 9: Why We Should Fear GodLesson 10: The Terror of the LordPart 5: The Results of Fearing GodLesson 11: The Blessings of Fearing God


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionHave I ever resisted the temptation to sin because I feared the wrath of God?Will God really judge me if I cheat on my wife or husband?Does the God I worship ever get upset or angry with me because of my sins? Does God really punish people today?Does the idea of fearing God ever enter my mind?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionSome common objections:You are asking me to think negatively about God.Since God is love, the idea of fearing Him never crosses my mind. Why would I fear sweet Jesus, meek and mild? He would never do anything to hurt me.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionWhen the average born-again Christian does not fear the Lord, things have gotten completely out of hand. Adultery and divorce are as common among church goers as in the world.Immorality, drugs and wickedness can be found today in our families, churches, Bible colleges and seminaries. But this was not always so.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionEvangelicals used to be called a God-fearing people.Now, adultery and divorce are as common among church goers as in the world. Church discipline was swift and sinners were rebuked for their wickedness.When a pastor fell into adultery and divorce, he left the ministry in disgrace.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionToday, we tolerate pastors who have gone through the cycle of adultery and divorce two or three times. When one pastor was caught on video tape entertaining hookers at a cheap motel, he is not only still pastoring his church, but back on TV as if there was nothing wrong!


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionPauls condemnation, There is no fear of God before their eyes (Romans 3:18), was originally aimed at unbelievers to explain why unbelievers were going to suffer the eternal wrath of God in hell. It would have come as a complete surprise to the apostle Paul to find that his condemnation now describes the church as well as the world.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionThe fear of the Lord is the missing note in Evangelical theology today. There have been no major works on this subject in this century. The last full book on the fear of God was written by John Bunyan in A.D. 1688!The last popular systematic theology text to devote an entire chapter to fearing God was John Gills Body of Divinity (1770).


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionThe textbooks used by most Christian colleges and seminaries do not teach the fear of the Lord.An entire generation of pastors and missionaries have never been taught the fear of God. They, in turn, have never taught the people of God that the Lord should be feared as well as loved.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionIs it any wonder then that Christians are no longer referred to as God-fearing people? Indeed, who today views himself or herself as God-fearing? Do you?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionWe have moved so far away even from the idea of fearing God that the very words God-fearing seem strange to our ears.Most Christians today assume that fearing God is no longer necessary. This situation cannot and must not be allowed to continue.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionThe fear of the Lord is absolutely necessary for the spiritual health of our nation, our churches and our families as well as for our personal lives. Any nation, church, family or individual that ceases to fear the Lord will fall into gross sins.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*IntroductionThe positive effects of fearing God are many. The blessings that come our way as we fear the Lord benefit the individual, the family, the church, and the nation. What it means to fear the Lord and how to put it into practice in our daily lives is the focus of this study. May God use it to revive the fear of the Lord in our day.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation is filled with commands to fear the Lord.In the Old Testament, the fear of God was viewed as the fundamental attitude of the believer to his God.In the New Testament, the fear of God is taught from Matthew to Revelation.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedIn the Gospels, the fear of God played a significant role in the life and teachings of Christ.Stop being afraid of those who kill the body but cant kill the soul. Instead, be afraid of the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell. Matt. 10:28 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe fear of God was preached as part of the early Churchs proclamation of mans duty to God.As [the church] continued to be built up and to live in the fear of the Lord, it kept increasing in numbers through the encouragement of the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:31 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe Apostle Paul viewed sanctification as taking place in the context of the fear of God.Since we have these promises, dear friends, we should cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit by perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe Apostle Peter commanded all men to fear God.Show honor to everyone. Keep on loving the brothers, fearing God, and honoring the king. 1 Peter 2:17 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedHeaven itself is filled with the glorious hymn that all nations should fear the Lord.Your deeds are spectacular and amazing, Lord God Almighty. Your ways are just and true, King of the nations. Lord, who wont fear and praise your name? For you alone are holy, and all the nations will come and worship you because your judgments have been revealed.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedHistorically, the fear of God has always been a part of the historic Christian understanding of God.From the Apostolic Fathers to our countrys Pilgrim Fathers, the fear of God was a part of fundamental Christian belief and practice.Our Puritan and Pilgrim Fathers delighted in the fear of the Lord.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedBefore the 1770s, the average person mostly held to a Puritan view of God who was:Aggressive in rewarding saints and punishing sinners.Not a wimp or pushover.A righteous and holy God who would not let sin go unpunished.Holy as well as loving.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe God of the Puritans and Pilgrims:Was worthy to be feared.Was mighty to save.Was mighty to judge.Held all people accountable for the way they lived.Would one day judge all people for their sins.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe God of the Puritans and Pilgrims:Was enthroned in the heavens.Laughed at the puny efforts of rebel sinners to throw off His sovereign rule.His justice would be fully vindicated by His divine judgment on Judgment Day.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedTo the Puritans and Pilgrims,Hell was not an empty threat.Heaven was not an empty dream.There was a hell to shun and a heaven to gain.The fear of God was the soul and substance of the Gospel.Salvation made sense only upon the assumption of the fear of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe Great Awakening was the greatest revival in American history.Its most famous sermon was Sinners in the Hands of An Angry God by Jonathan Edwards.Revival broke out in Edwards church on the day the sermon was preached.Before it ended, the revival turned America into a church-going nation.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedHave you ever heard preaching like Edwards today?We are more likely to hear God in the Hands of Angry Sinners.In Edwards day, people in general believed that God would indeed punish people for the evil they do.This meant that sinners must prepare to meet their God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedThe Puritans and Pilgrims did not deny the love of God.They had a profound understanding of the love of God that exceeds the cheap love so often preached today.Gods wrath was the black velvet pillow on which the jewel of divine love shined its brightest.Wrath always forms the context of love.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedIn the third chapter of John, we find the most well known verse in the Bible:For this is how God loved the world: He gave his unique Son so that everyone who believes In him would not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedBut with the message of Gods gracious gift is the message of Gods wrath:The one who believes in the Son has eternal life, but the one who disobeys the Son will not see life. Instead, the wrath of God remains on him. John 3:36 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedWhat if you do not fear the wrath of God?You will not appreciate the love of God.Thats why cheap grace and cheap love are so popular today.The fear of God is not limited to conversion.It is the foundation for holy living.It is a sign of spiritual maturity and depth.Its lack shows immaturity & shallowness.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*What Has HappenedTo conclude:When a nation or a church no longer fears God, iniquity and lawlessness will abound.The only real and lasting cure for violence and crime in modern society is a return to the biblical understanding for the fear of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe demise of the fear of God can be traced back to two mega-shifts during the 18th and 19th centuries.A mega-shift is a radical change that alters a culture or society to such a degree that it becomes something new and different.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Industrial Revolution moved people from the rural areas to the inner city.Churches were few and attendance was meager.An entire generation grew up that had never to church to hear the Gospel.People lost any sense of the fear of God.They sinned and cursed God while doing so.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityDarwinianism The theory of evolution gave people the excuse to live as they pleased.It led to secular humanism, which denied there was a God to fear.It led to Marxism and Nazism, which sought to destroy the Church and its Gospel.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Churchs ConditionThe Church became more interested in buildings, numbers, and money.The Church failed to teach the whole counsel of God.Confessions, creeds and catechisms were laid aside in the vain pursuit of carnal goals.Churches became places of entertainment instead of repentance and conversion.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Root CauseReligious liberalism in the 19th century caused of the demise of the fear of God.Liberal theology proclaimed that there was nothing in God to fear.It paved the way for the triumph of secular humanism and Darwinianism.Charles Spurgeon stood virtually alone against the tide of liberalism.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityA typical sermon outline from the time:Is there a hell? No!God is too loving for divine judgment.God is the Father of all mankind; all men are His children; all men are brothers.If there is a heaven, we are all going there.Hell cannot exist with a loving God. God is all love; there is nothing to fear.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe God of liberalism was pictured as being so loving that He would never hurt a fly.Because He would never damn anyone, hell was an empty threat.The denial of eternal punishment became the theological fad of the day.Because God was viewed as sensitive, compassionate, tender, loving and kind, there was nothing left in God to fear.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe hard attributes of God were rejected.Gone was His power.Gone was His holiness.Gone was His righteousness.Gone was His judgment.Gone were any other threatening attributes.Only the soft attributes of Gods love and mercy remained.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Feminization of GodThe feminization of God began in the 19th century when God was reduced to a sentimental blob of love.People began praying to the Mother God instead of God the Father.Mary Baker Eddy and Mother-God.Feminist Mary Daly called for the castration of the Father and the Son!


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityFrom New Thought to New AgeThe feminization of God became part of the 19th century New Thought movement.New Thought became the New Age by the end of the 20th centuryThe teachings of both were embraced by liberal theologians who now control most seminaries and colleges in mainline Protestant denominations.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityA Word of ClarificationWe believe in all of Gods attributes, whether hard or soft.We object to the assumption that His hard attributes should be ignored or rejected.We object to reshaping God, the Bible, Jesus, the clergy, preaching or the Church to reflect only soft attributes.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityWe reject references to Gods hard attributes as male qualities which are to be rooted out of our understanding of God.We reject references to Gods soft attributes as feminine qualities which need to be emphasized in order for us to feel good about God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityMother or FatherFeminist theologians claim that referring to God as Father hurts the self-image of women.If true, then would not referring to God as Mother hurt the self-image of men?If true, men and women would have to worship different deities.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityGod cannot be reduced to what makes us feel warm and fuzzy.The attempt to create a goddess or god in our image is futile and blasphemous.We must accept God as He has chosen to reveal Himself to us or we are guilty of gross idolatry.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Feminization of JesusThe feminization of Jesus began in the 19th century.Famous painting depicted Him as a weak, effeminate, white European male with long hair set in a womanly manner.None of these portrayals looked like someone who could survive 40 days in a wilderness without food.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityJesus was no longer viewed as someone who was so strong and virile that He commanded the allegiance of other men.He did not look like someone who had been a carpenter from the days of his youth.He did not look like someone who was strong enough to knock over the tables of the money changers and drive them out of the Temple.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityHe was not the kind of man who was likely to throw anyone into hell.He was depicted as an effeminate while male whose appearance was not threatening.One liberal California church proudly displays a portrait of Jesus as a white, long-haired, blond, blue-eyed California surfer; hardly the God of Isaiah 9:6.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Feminization of HymnsThe hymns of the Christian Church were strong in doctrine and majestic in style.They emphasized Gods:SovereigntyPowerJudgmentLove and Mercy


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityBeginning in the 19th century, hymns were marked by:Romantic terminologyGushy sentimentalityErotic expressionsMany were written by single Christian women who were fantasizing a romantic love to Jesus which was clearly sexual in nature.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityDeep doctrinal contentMajestic in styleTerms of praiseGratitude for salvationExpressions of worshipWhat God has done, He has done out of grace for His gloryShallow in contentSloppy in styleTerms of romanceGushy sentimentalityExpressions of eroticismWhat God has done, He has done for me because He values meHymns Before 1900Hymns After 1900


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Greek word agape (and sometimes phileo) is used for our love for God and Christ.The Greek word eros is NEVER used of our love for God and Christ.Jesus in NOT our male lover.Any hymn which expresses a romantic love to Him borders on blasphemy.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityThe Feminization of ChristianityAs a liberal view of God swept through Protestant churches, the men stopped going to church because religion was for men and women.To be like Jesus was to not fight for what was right.Careers in police work or the military were abandoned to unbelievers.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityNovels of the period such as Mark Twains Tom Sawyer pictured religion as something fit only for the Aunt Pollys of the world.Real men could safely ignore going to church.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityA Mega-shiftGods holiness and wrath became eclipsed by His love and mercy.The same changes in mainline Protestant churches is happening today in evangelical seminaries, colleges and churches.Are we to worship the God of Scripture or the goddess of modern liberalism?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Liberalization of ChristianityConclusion: What is your view of Jesus?Is He sweet or strong?Is He commanding or meek and mild?Is He Judge of all the earth or my friend?Would He take a whip and throw the moneychangers out of the temple or would He say, Cant we just all get along?Would He throw unrepentant sinners into hell or forgive their sin without repentance?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyMasculine PastorsBefore the feminization of Christianity, pastors were:SoldiersJudgesMayorsHuntersPioneers


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyThroughout church history, many pastors died in battle defending their home, their church and their nation.Swiss Reformer Swingli Oliver CromwellJohn OwenWashingtons GeneralsThe Puritan pastor shared a common life with the men of his congregation.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyFeminized PastorsWith the rise of religious liberalism, the role of pastors was feminized.It became unseemly for a clergyman to hunt or fish, fight in a war, or hold public office.He was restricted to the parlor to read poetry with the Ladies Literary Society.He was sweet and no longer respected.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyPastors were held up to ridicule.They were depicted as wearing fancy clothes and spending their time going to teas for bored women.During the Civil War, for the first time in American history, clergymen were forbidden by law from fighting on the front lines with their men.They were sent to the rear with the women.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyA number of states even passed laws forbidding clergymen from holding public office.This was in stark contrast to Colonial America:Cotton MatherMayor and JudgePastors were Generals and OfficersSeparation of Church and State was redefined to mean Clergy Stay Out.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergySissy SermonsAs the role of clergy became more effeminate in character, sermons began to change.Bold, strong, virile doctrinal preaching gave way to soothing sermons and quite talks on love.People didnt want sermons to make them think; they wanted to feel warm and happy.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyTo raise your voice or pound on the pulpit became no longer acceptable.The use of logic and argumentation in sermons was frowned upon.Seminary students were told not to be bold, authoritative or doctrinal in their preaching.Today, a strong pastor will be accused of being prideful, unloving, or insensitive.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyThe glory of God and biblical truth have been eclipsed by church growth techniques that focus on the felt needs of the people in the community.Giving people what they want has become more important than obeying God and preaching the truth.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyLesbian PastorsFeminist and lesbian pastors have been ordained in liberal denominations.Lead On, O Queen EternalOur Mother, which art in heavenMasculinity is under attack, so men leave.Neuter gender hymnals and prayer books have replaced traditional works.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyThe Return of the GoddessAt one Boston church, over 400 women met to worship Diana of Ephesus.They proclaimed that the biblical view of God as Father is now dead.They proclaimed that the time had come to worship the ancient pagan goddesses, such as Diana.There is no fear of God before their eyes.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Feminization of the ClergyConclusionThe fear of God vanished as God, Jesus, the clergy, hymns, the church and preaching were liberalized and feminized.The liberals have already emptied their churches. Should we allow them to empty ours as well?We must stand up to the PC crowd and proclaim the fear of the Lord once again.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Apostle Paul has warned us:Stop being conformed to this world, but continue to be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may be able to determine what is Gods will what is proper, pleasing, and perfect. Romans 12:2 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchHell Fire SermonsMost evangelicals believe in the conscious torment in hell of unrepentant believers, but it is rarely preached.Liberal theologians view hell as unkind, insensitive and morally repugnant.The liberal media portray clergy who preach hell as backwoods nut cases.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Raw TruthWe do not preach the doctrine of hell because we are afraid of the mockers and scoffers of this world.We have allowed the world to squeeze us into its mold.The Apostle Peter warned us about this!


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchFirst of all you must understand this: In the last days mockers will come and, indulging in their own lusts, will ridicule us by saying, What happened to his promise to return? Ever since our ancestors died, everything continues as it did from the beginning of creation. 2 Peter 3:3-4 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchDid Peter or Paul stop preaching because some people mocked? No!God is true, even if everyone else is a liar. Romans 3:4 (ISV)When the frown of the world is more influential than the frown of God, the fear of the Lord needs to be revived.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchWhatever Happened to Sin?The same liberalization of the church made it unpopular to preach about sin.The media portrays adulterers, rapists, and child molesters not as sinners who needs to repent, but as addicts who need therapy.We are told not to condemn them as sinners but to feel their pain.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchDoctrinal Preaching TodayDoctrinal sermons have given way to relational sermons which focus on the feelings of man.Any doctrine that might hurt someones feelings is either denied or ignored.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe man is the head of his household.His wife should submit to his leadership.Children should obey their parents.Criminals should be punished.The death penalty should be used more frequently.We are not part of God.We cannot be all that we want to be.We do not have infinite potential.How to Alienate a Congregation in 14 Easy Steps Just Preach These Time-Honored Topics


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchAll things are not possible with us.Being positive will not do much for you.We are not all created equal because some people are smarter or stronger than others.Adultery and divorce disqualify you for the ministry.The heathen are lost.Young people need to be fully accountable for their actions by the age of 12 or 13.How to Alienate a Congregation in 14 Easy Steps Just Preach These Time-Honored Topics


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Price of DiscernmentWhen you point out all the false teachings on popular Christian radio and TV programs, you are:told to be quiet for the sake of unitycalled a trouble-makerlabeled insensitive to feelingsaccused of pride and conceit


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Church Growth MovementNumbers, money, and buildings are the only goals that count.The New Testament is irrelevant when it comes to the nature, structure and programs of the local church.We should take surveys in the community and ask the heathen what they want to hear and what sermon topics to preach.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe result: We build a church that reflects the counsel of the ungodly. We ignore what the Bible says about how a church is to be structured and governed.We place sociologists and surveys above the word of the Apostles.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchI Will Build My ChurchJesus will build His Church His way.Did the Apostles in the Book of Acts take surveys of the heathen to see what they wanted? No!The New Testament tells us the nature and structure of a local church.The Bible is our rule of faith and practice, not pragmatism.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Whole Counsel of GodActs 20:27 tells us that the whole counsel of God must be preached.If the church growth movement is of God, then why is the doctrine of hell never preached?The heathen do not want to hear that they are sinners under Gods wrath.They hate the very idea of repentance.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe Cult of HappinessWhen the fear of God is not preached, Christians will not understand that their purpose in life is to glorify God.Happiness becomes the idol before which all must bow.It is time to tell people the truth: God is more concerned with our holiness than with our happiness.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchCome close to God, and he will come close to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable, mourn, and cry. Let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. James 4:8-10 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchInstead of preaching that we exist for Gods glory and that we are His servants, we are told:God exists for our happiness.He is our servant.He is supposed to fetch and carry wealth and health for us whenever we name it and claim it.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchDedicated to Jesus?The Me First generation is not interested in the personal sacrifice required to serve Christ.Have you ever heard a sermon calling upon you to be totally surrendered to Christ?We are told the Christian life is easy and fun.Morality and truth do not matter anymore.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchLet Us Entertain YouBecause people no longer fear God, many worship services are not centered on the preaching of the Word.As more entertainment is included in a church service, the sermons get shorter and more shallow.Crowds come when the service is long on entertainment and short on preaching.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchThe End ResultMost evangelical Christians have never heard a single sermon on fearing God.Fear does not fit into the positive thinking movement.Fear is not politically correct.How can you tell people to fear God when we are trying to convince people that Jesus will make them happy.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchIf we told people the truth that they should fear the just judgment of Almighty Jesus, we wont be able to con them into joining our warm and fuzzy church where everything is nice and sweet.Like Esau, we have sold our birthright for a bowl of mush.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchConclusionThe Church at the beginning of the 21st century, despite its wealth and power, is desperately sick and weak.Some men in the pulpits are more carnal and immoral than the people in the pews.Why? There is no fear of God before their eyes.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The World Molding the ChurchIf the Church is to regain its spiritual strength and power, it must begin with the fear of God.Those who fear the Lord will depart from evil.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?Training ChildrenThe frequency of its mention in Scripture, as compared to other aspects of piety, reveals the importance of the fear of God.We have to repeat things to our children over and over in order for them to learn. Why? This is human nature.To fear God is the most repeated admonition in Scripture.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?Loving God88 References45 in OT; 43 in NTSome Common Admonitions in Scripture91 References82 in OT; 9 in NTTrusting GodFearing God278 References235 in OT; 43 in NT


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?A Logical ConclusionThe fear of God is the predominant response and fundamental attitude that God desires toward:HimselfHis WordHis LawHis Name


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?What We Are Not SayingThe Fear of God is NOT the ONLY way to relate to God.Loving God is not at issue. We must relate to God in more than one way.Loving God is not enough, according to the Bible. We must fear Him, too.Fearing God must be fundamental to our relationship to God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The Psalms on Fearing GodThere are 62 references to fearing God in the Psalms alone.Entire psalms are dedicated to the blessings which come from fearing the Lord.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The Proverbs on Fearing GodIn the Proverbs, the fear of God is referred to 15 times as being the source of wisdom, knowledge, discretion, truthfulness and morality.Thus the fear of the Lord should not be limited to inner piety.The fear of the Lord is practical and helps us live a godly life in a sinful world.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The fear of God leads to wisdom.The ability to see things from Gods viewpoint.The fear of God leads to understanding.The ability to respond to what you have seen according to Gods Word.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The fear of God is a fountain of life.The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. Proverbs 14:27Practical Stuff, TooThe fear of God leads to good sleep.The fear of the Lord leads to life. The one who fears God can sleep satisfied, untouched by evil. Proverbs 19:23


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The fear of God is the key to the treasure house of heaven.And He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation, wisdom and knowledge. The fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure. Isaiah 33:6


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?A Defective CovenantThe Old Covenant could not provide a redeemed heart to fear God. It dealt with external things.Oh, that they had such a heart in them, that they should fear Me, and keep all my commandments always, that it may be well with them and with their sons forever! Deut. 5:29


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?A Superior CovenantThe New Covenant provides a redeemed heart to fear God. It deals with internal things.I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel I will put my law within them, and on their heart I will write it. They shall all know me. Jer. 31:31-33; 32:38


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The New TestamentThe New Testament is the record of the establishment of the New Covenant through the person and work of Christ.This New Covenant is a covenant of grace through which God provides man with a new heart to fulfill Gods OT promise.Thus, the goal of the New Covenant is to fear God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?Liberals claim that:The Old Testament God was a savage and primitive god you had to fear.The New Testament did away with the fear of God and substituted the love of God in its place.But the NT goal is to bring sinners into a permanent relationship with God to fear Him and keep His commandments.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?Loving God

Trusting God

Fearing God

88 References45 in OT; 43 in NT91 References82 in OT; 9 in NT278 References235 in OT; 43 in NT

Some Common Admonitions in ScriptureThe same number of references!


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The Frequency of MentionThere are as many references to the fear of God as there are to the love of God.So the church continued to be built up and to live in the fear of the Lord, it kept increasing in numbers through the encouragement of the Holy Spirit. Acts 9:31 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?The Frequency of MentionThe fear of the Lord was the divinely appointed means by which the early church experienced peace and growth.As they feared the Lord, the Spirit comforted them.Thus the fruit of the Spirit is rooted in the fear of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?No Fear of GodThe unsaved are described in Romans 3:10-18 as There is no fear of God before their eyes.When men no longer fear God, there is no restraint upon their lusts.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How Important Is It?ConclusionThe fear of the Lord is the recognition that God is holy as well as loving.God is to be feared as well as trusted.If we neglect the fear of God, we will suffer in our spiritual life.God has revealed Himself in Scripture and to worship any other God than the One revealed in Scripture is idolatry.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Importance of WisdomThe Beginning of WisdomA Popular Memory VerseThe fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 9:10The word translated beginning in these two verses are actually different words.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Importance of WisdomThe beginning of wisdom in Ps 111:10Re-sheet means the best or highest quality. Exodus 23:19 Amos 6:1 1 Samuel 15:21 Ezekiel 48:14 Proverbs 4:7


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Importance of WisdomThe beginning of wisdom in Prov. 9:10Te-chil-lah means the first in a succession of things.ConclusionFearing God is the first step to wisdom and the chief aspect of wisdom.It is the soul and substance of our relationship to God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodThe English word fear does not tell us what kind of fear we are to have.does not indicate any specific attributes.is not precise enough to convey the richness of meanings of the various biblical words for fearing God.is not precise enough to tell us how to relate to God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodGoor: Stand in AweStand in awe of Him, all you descendants of Israel. Psalm 22:23Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. Psalm 33:8Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodChool: Tremble Before HimWhen they hear the report of you, they shall be in anguish because of you. Deut. 2:25Tremble before Him, all the earth. 1 Chronicles 16:30Tremble, O earth, before the Lord. Ps. 96:9You dont tremble before Me, do you? Jeremiah 5:22Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodAh-ratz: Be in Dread of HimA God greatly feared in the council of the holy ones. Psalm 89:7And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread. Isaiah 8:13Indeed, they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. Isaiah 29:23Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodPa-chad: Living in DreadAnd you shall be in dread night and day, and shall have no assurance of your life. Deuteronomy 28:66And the dread of God was on all the kingdoms of the lands when they heard that the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. 2 Chronicles 20:29Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodPa-chad: Living in DreadOld Testament VocabularyIf the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the Fear of Isaac, had not been for me, surely now you would have sent me away empty-handed. Genesis 31:42The God of Abraham, the God of Nahor, the God of their father, judge between us. So Jacob swore by the Fear of his father Isaac. Genesis 31:53


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodA-mah: To be Frightened of GodTerror and dread fall upon them; By the greatness of your arm, they are motionless as stone. Exodus 15:16I will send My terror ahead of you, and throw into confusion all the people among whom you come Exodus 23:27Let Him remove His rod from me, and let not dread of Him terrify me. Job 9:34Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodDo-chal: The Terror of Godall the peoples and nations and men of every language dreaded and feared him. Daniel 5:19I will make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom, men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel. Daniel 6:26 Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodYah-re: The Fear of GodThen Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. Exodus 3:6for God has so worked that men should fear Him. Ecclesiastes 3:14Yah-re: Political Respect...and they revered [Joshua] all the days of his life, just as they had revered Moses. Joshua 4:14Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodYah-goor: Terror and FearI was afraid of the anger and hot displeasure with which the Lord was wrathful against you in order to destroy you. Deuteronomy 9:19Re-ah-dah: Worship with TremblingWorship the Lord with trembling. Psalm 2:11Old Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodIn the New Testament, all the different Hebrew words for fear are translated by the Greek word phobos and the verbs, adverbs and adjectives which modify phobos.The fear of God in the New Testament embraces all the emotions of the human heart.New Testament Vocabulary


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodThe Christian and the Terror of GodFall on us and hide us from the presence of Him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of their wrath has come; and who is able to stand? Revelation 6:15-17Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men. 2 Corinthians 5:11


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodSolemn WarningsIf you are His child, then He will punish you when you wander from the path of righteousness. Therefore, as long as the promise of entering his rest remains valid, let us be afraid lest someone among you fails to reach it. Hebrews 4:1 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodSolemn WarningsFor if we choose to go on sinning after we have received the full knowledge of the truth, there is no more sacrifice for our sins. Hebrews 10:26 (ISV)We must be thankful and worship God in reverence and fear in a way that pleases him. For our God is an all-consuming fire. Hebrews 12:28-29 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodJesus and The Fear of GodBut I tell you, my friends, never be afraid of those who kill the body and after that cant do anything more. Ill show you the one you should be afraid of. Be afraid of the one who has the authority to throw you into hell after killing you. Yes, I tell you, be afraid of him! Luke 12:4-5 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodWonder, Awe, and ReverenceLord, who wont fear and praise your name? For you alone are holy, and all the nations will come and worship you because your judgments have been revealed. Revelation 15:4 (ISV)The fear of God is an essential part of living a holy life.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Vocabulary of Fearing GodWhy So Much Shallowness Today? The reason Christians are weak is rooted in the fact they do not fear God!ConclusionPresence of the fear of God is His blessing.Absence of the fear of God is His curse.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodThe fear of God can mean different things to different people at different times.Most commentators have correctly distinguished reverential fear from slavish fear.Are these the only two distinctions?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodMore Than Two Distinctions Nature: What is the nature of the fear?Origin: What motivates this fear?Subjects: Who is fearing God?Attributes: What is this fear like?Means: How is this fear manifested?Consequences: What happens to those who fear God?


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodObjective/Subjective The fear of the Lord may refer to something objective.The fear of God may refer to something subjective.The Objective Fear of GodObjective fear is external to man.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodGods NameFear was one name for God.If the God of my father, the God of Abraham, the Fear of Isaac, had not been for me, surely now you would have sent me away empty-handed.Genesis 31:42


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodGods WordNo one can say that he is ignorant of God because He has not revealed himself.The heavens declare the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of His hands.Psalms 19:1General RevelationHumanity is without excuse.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodSpecial RevelationScripture is referred to as:The law of the Lord.The statutes of the Lord.The precepts of the Lord.The commands of the Lord.The fear of the Lord.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodGods AttributesYou shall not dread them, for the LORD your God is in your midst, a great and awesome God. Deuteronomy 7:21God is in His Nature awesome.Gods works are awesome and fearful.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodRevealed ReligionCome you children, listen to me and I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Psalms 34:11The fear of the Lord is to believe all that God has revealed in His Word.No one can truly believe in God without fearing him.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodGod-FearersMy brothers, descendants of Abrahams family, and those among you who fear God, it is to us that the message of this salvation has been sent. Acts 13:26 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodThe Worship of GodFor you alone are holy, and all the nations will come and worship you because your judgments have been revealed. Revelation 15:4 (ISV)Our worship of God should involve fearing him, in the sense of awe, reverence, wonder, and praise.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodIrreverent Behavior in ChurchThe lack of godly fear is the reason for little reverence in many church services.We should be preparing our hearts for worship.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodTemporary/PermanentPeople temporarily get religion during a crisis.The permanent fear of God is a provision of the New Covenant.I will put the fear of Me in their hearts so they will turn away from me.Jeremiah 32:40


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodPositive/NegativeThe fear of God can focus on the positive aspects of fear such as love, reverence, and awe.The fear of God can focus on the negative aspects of fear such as terror, horror, and anxiety.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodSaving/Non-SavingThe fear of God can motivate people to seek salvation. It is possible to fear God in a non-saving sense.People think they can earn their way to heaven by their own good works.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodParticular/GeneralThe Ninevites fear was particular and focused on the specific judgment of God.A true Christian seeks to apply the fear of the Lord to all of life.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodIndividual/GroupTrue revival comes when people are walking in the fear of the Lord.Reverence for the name of Jesus comes from a general fear of God.When there is no fear of God, lawlessness, blasphemy and wickedness will abound.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodAttitude/ActionIn the Bible, there are places where the fear of God is used in the sense of obedience.The fear of God can refer to an attitude toward God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodSpiritual/CarnalSpiritual fear of God contains both positive and negative elements.We rejoice with trembling.We worship in an attitude of awe.Carnal fear of God contains only negative aspects.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodSincere/HypocriticalDo you fear God enough to depart from evil and to keep His commandments? Obedience to God is where the rubber meets the road.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodCharacter Trait/EpisodeDo you fear God?Are you a reverent person?Attractive/RepulsiveFear can draw people to or from God.Mobilize/ParalyzeJoseph remained pure because of fear.Moses was paralyzed by fear.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodThe Work of the Holy SpiritI will make an everlasting covenant with them that I will not turn away from doing good for them. I will put the fear of me in their hearts so they will not turn away from me. Jeremiah 32:40


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Meanings of Fearing GodConclusionThe traditional two-fold division of the fear of God is not adequate. The deeper our understanding of what it means to fear God, the better able we are to fear Him as He ought to be feared.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe contrast in response of the wickedGod is enthroned in the heavens.God is the Sovereign Ruler and Judge of all things.The Psalmist tells us how unbelievers respond.They are put to shame.They tremble in fear.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodChildren and the Fear of God The Lord was pleased to save David.WHY was the Lord was pleased to deliver him?The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them. Psalms 34:7David gives exhortation to fear the Lord.O fear the LORD, you His saints; For to those who fear Him, there is no want. Psalms 34:9


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodA Long and Prosperous LifeWho is the man who desires life, and loves length of days that he may see good? Psalms 34:12A long, happy life filled with goodness begins with the fear of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Nature of GodThe Greatness of God The Sovereignty of God The Holiness of God The Jealousy of God The Justice and Righteousness of God The Judgment of God against His enemies


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Names of GodWe should fear God for His glorious names. We should delight to fear his name.We should glorify the name of God. We should praise the great name of God.Nations will fear the name of the Lord.Gods name is holy and awesome.Blasphemy will result in swift judgment.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Word of GodThe scriptures are called the fear of the Lord.The Bible is the written Word of God.The Bible is the source of our fear of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Works of GodWe should be in awe of Gods almighty acts.ManyGreatWonderfulRighteousMarvelous, Righteous and True


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Mighty Works of GodCreationWe belong to Him and owe Him our worship and obedience.SovereigntyHe is working all things of His own Will and we should be in awe.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodThe Mighty Works of GodJudgment We should fear the judgment of God more than the judgment of men. ForgivenessGod forgives our sins that we might fear Him. The fear of God is the GOAL of Gods plan for salvation!


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Why We Should Fear GodConclusion Gods wondrous nature, name, Word and works should motivate us to fear Him.Our God is an awesome God, a great and glorious God, mighty in judgment, compassionate in mercy.He is working all things according to His sovereign will.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordFearOver 20 different meanings in Scripture.Fear is a broad subject.We have to deal with human emotions and how human beings respond to God.People respond to God depending on the situation.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordTerrorI heard your voice, I was afraid, so I hid myself. Genesis 3:10This terror caused Adam and Eve to run from God.It caused them to hide from His presence. They experienced terror at the thought of being exposed to the all-seeing eye of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordRunning from the LightFor everyone who practices wickedness hates the light and does not come to the light, so that his actions may not be exposed. John 3:20 (ISV)No creature can hide from him. Everything is naked and helpless before the eyes of the one to whom we must give an account. Hebrews 4:13 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordMans Fall into Sin and GuiltThe eyes of Adam and Eve were opened.Once man sinned, they became embarrassed and felt shame.This shame was rooted not in their naked bodies but in their sinful souls. They tried to use fig leaves to hide from God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordBefore the FallThere was no terror, negative fear, anxiety or dread of judgment. There was a positive awe, respect, and love of God. After the FallThere was terror at the thought of being in the presence of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordWe are all Hiding from GodFear gripped Adam because he knew that:God is a Holy God.He was accountable to God.God would punish sin.There was no way to escape His judgment.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordWe are all Hiding from GodThe hiding failed!The cover-up failed.Their sin was exposed.The guilt was rightly placed.The punishment given was death.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordThe Day of DoomThere IS a Judgment Day and God is going to judge them.Anyone whose name was not found written in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire Revelation 20:15 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Terror of the LordConclusionGet away from me, you who are accursed, into the eternal fire that has been prepared for the devil and his angels! These people will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life. Matthew 25:41,46 (ISV)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodAs IndividualsFear the LORD our God for our good always and for our survival. Deuteronomy 6:4For Our Own GoodIt is in our own best interest to fear God and keep His commandments.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodDivine GuidanceWho is the man who fear the LORD? He will instruct him in the way that he should choose. The secret of the LORD is for those who fear HIM, and He will make them know his covenant. Psalm 25:12, 14


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodDivine ProtectionBehold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope for His loving kindness, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Psalm 33:18-19God is paying special attention to those who fear Him.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodOur Guardian Angel The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him and rescues them. Divine WisdomThe fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Proverbs 1:7


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodAs FamiliesGods Word instructs us about the origin, nature, structure, and inner workings of the family. The Brave MidwivesAnd it came about that because the midwives feared God, that He established households for them. Exodus 1:21


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodHonor for the ElderlyThe respect we owe to our parents and the elderly is tied to the respect we have for God. As ChurchesWhen the Holy Spirit was poured out at Pentecost, great fear came upon everyone.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodAs NationsWhen a nation fears the Lord, justice is established throughout the land.Justice Hangs on ItWhen judges no longer fear God, they will abuse their position and power to oppress the people of God.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodGood Business SenseHonesty and hard work abound when God is feared. Sound Economic PoliciesThe thing which you are doing is not good; should you not walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the nations, our enemies? Nehemiah 5:9


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Blessings of Fearing GodConclusionThe fear of God produces justice and righteousness in individuals, families, churches, and nations. Blessed is that nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance. Psalm 33:12


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Conclusion There are hundreds of references to fearing God in the Scriptures. It is the fundamental and essential attitude toward God that we must develop and maintain in the Christian life.The fear of the Lord will bring great blessings upon individuals, families, churches, and nations.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Conclusion When people do not fear God, there is crime, immorality, divorce, destruction of our churches, oppression by judges, bribery and unjust laws.What is the biblical remedy to the problems we face? We need to return to the fear of God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the fountain of all blessing.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*How to OrderAvailable from Faith Defenders http://faithdefenders.com

ISBN #1891833529


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*You Have Broken Gods LawWorship only God.Dont make an idol.Dont take Gods name in vain.Honor the Sabbath.Honor your father and mother.Do not murder.Do not commit adultery.Do not steal.Do not lie.Do not covet.The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20)


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*You Were Born a SinnerAll people are born sinners. We are all unrighteous people. Romans 3:10-12As it is written, Not even one person is righteous. No one understands. No one searches for God. All have turned away. Together they have become worthless.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Your Best Efforts FailAll people sin. Our best efforts will never measure up. Romans 3:23 since all have sinned and continue to fall short of Gods glory.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*The Price of Sin is DeathThe price of sin is death. Romans 5:12Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to everyone, because all have sinned.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Jesus Paid Your DebtJesus paid your debt by dying in your place. Romans 6:23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Christ Died for YouChrist died in your place, paying your price, and suffering so that you would not have to suffer eternally. Romans 5:8But God demonstrates his love for us by the fact that Christ died for us while we were still sinners.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*His Invitation Is to You NowHis invitation is open to anyone even you. Romans 10:13For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Confess, Declare, BelieveYou must confess your sin, declare His Lordship, and believe in your heart that God raised Christ from the dead. Romans 10:9-10 if you declare with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For a person believes with his heart and is justified, and a person declares with his mouth and is saved.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Your Prayer for SalvationLord, Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and I need you. I know that you paid the price for my sins by dying on the cross. I ask that you forgive my sins; and I receive you as my Savior and Lord. I thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person you want me to be. Amen.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Some Truths to RememberRemember these simple truths from Gods Word: 1 John 1:9If we make it our habit to confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us those sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Romans 8:16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are Gods children.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Some Truths to RememberEphesians 2:8For by such grace you have been saved through faith. This does not come from you; it is the gift of God and not the result of works, lest anyone boast. Romans 8:18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed to us.


Copyright 1999 Robert A. Morey. Distributed by Davidson Press, Inc.*Some Truths to Remember1 John 5:13I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18aTherefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have disappeared, andlook!all things have become new! All of this comes from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ


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