In a powerful spiritual exposition, Emeritus Professor Mercy Olumide delves into the profound biblical concept of fearing God, drawing from multiple scriptures to illuminate this fundamental aspect of Christian faith.
The Greatness and Holiness of God
The foundation of fearing God begins with recognizing His supreme greatness and unique holiness. As highlighted in Psalms 96:4-5, the Lord stands far above all other gods, having created the heavens themselves. This establishes His absolute authority and worthiness of praise.
Revelation 15:4 further emphasizes God's singular holiness, questioning "Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy." This divine purity sets God apart from all creation and forms the basis for reverent fear among believers worldwide.
Divine Opposition to Sin and Injustice
God's consistent opposition to sin and commitment to righteousness should inspire holy fear in every Christian. Scripture repeatedly demonstrates that God stands against all forms of wickedness and will judge accordingly.
Multiple biblical passages, including Deuteronomy 17:12-13 and Malachi 3:5, clearly outline God's stance against various sins. The Lord specifically mentions judgment against sorcerers, adulterers, perjurers, and those who exploit vulnerable members of society like wage earners, widows, and orphans.
The Reality of Universal Judgment
Perhaps the most compelling reason to fear God is the certainty of universal judgment at history's conclusion. Isaiah 59:18-19 portrays God repaying His adversaries according to their deeds, ensuring that all people will fear His name.
The New Testament continues this theme in Hebrews 10:26-31, presenting what the author describes as "a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." This passage warns particularly those who willfully sin after receiving knowledge of the truth, emphasizing there remains no further sacrifice for such sins.
The biblical truth remains clear and solemn: every person will eventually give account to God for their actions and life stewardship. References in Ecclesiastes 12:14, Romans 14:10-12, 2 Corinthians 5:10, and Revelation 20:12-13 all confirm this ultimate accountability before the Creator.
Professor Olumide's teaching serves as a timely reminder for believers to maintain proper reverence for God, recognizing both His loving nature and His righteous judgment that will ultimately address all injustice and inequity.
