The concept of fearing God over man is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing reverence and obedience to God above the opinions or threats of human beings. This principle is rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate authority and sovereign ruler over all creation, deserving of utmost respect and allegiance.

Old Testament Foundations

The fear of God is foundational in the Old Testament, where it is often associated with wisdom, obedience, and righteousness. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse highlights the idea that true understanding and moral insight begin with a reverent acknowledgment of God's authority.

In the narrative of the Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1:17 , we see a clear example of fearing God over man: "The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live." Despite the king's command, the midwives chose to obey God, demonstrating their reverence for His will over human authority.

Prophetic Writings

The prophets often called the people of Israel to fear God rather than man, especially in times of national crisis or moral decline. Isaiah 8:12-13 exhorts, "Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread. The LORD of Hosts is the One you shall regard as holy. Only He should be feared; only He should be dreaded." This passage underscores the importance of maintaining a proper perspective, recognizing God's holiness and power above human concerns.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the fear of God continues to be a central theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself warned against the fear of man in Matthew 10:28 : "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell." Here, Jesus emphasizes the eternal consequences of fearing God over the temporary threats posed by humans.

The apostles also reinforced this teaching. In Acts 5:29 , Peter and the other apostles declared, "We must obey God rather than men," when confronted by the Sanhedrin. This statement reflects their unwavering commitment to God's authority, even in the face of persecution.

Practical Implications

The fear of God over man has practical implications for believers, guiding their conduct, decisions, and priorities. It calls for a life of integrity, where one's actions are aligned with God's commands rather than societal pressures or human expectations. This fear is not a paralyzing terror but a profound respect and awe for God's majesty and righteousness.

In daily life, this principle encourages believers to seek God's approval above all else, trusting in His wisdom and sovereignty. It fosters a sense of peace and confidence, knowing that God's purposes will prevail despite human opposition or misunderstanding.

Conclusion

The fear of God over man is a vital biblical principle that calls believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all earthly concerns. It is a call to live with integrity, courage, and unwavering faith, trusting in God's ultimate authority and eternal purposes.