Introduction

Reverence and the proper handling of holy things are central themes throughout the Bible, reflecting the deep respect and honor due to God and His sacred ordinances. This entry explores the biblical foundation for reverence, the treatment of holy objects, and the implications for believers.

Biblical Foundation for Reverence

Reverence is a profound respect and awe for God, His name, His Word, and His ordinances. The Bible consistently calls for a heart posture of reverence towards God. In Deuteronomy 10:12, the Israelites are instructed, "And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." This fear of the Lord is not terror but a deep respect and acknowledgment of His holiness and authority.

Reverence in Worship

Worship is a primary context where reverence is expressed. In John 4:24, Jesus teaches, "God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." This indicates that true worship requires an attitude of reverence, aligning one's spirit with the truth of God's nature and commands. The Psalms frequently call for worship that is characterized by reverence, as seen in Psalm 95:6, "Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker."

Proper Handling of Holy Things

The Bible provides specific instructions for the handling of holy things, emphasizing the need for purity and respect. In the Old Testament, the Ark of the Covenant is a prime example. In 2 Samuel 6:6-7, when Uzzah touched the Ark to steady it, he was struck dead because he violated the command that only the Levites were to carry it, demonstrating the seriousness of handling holy objects improperly.

The priesthood was given detailed instructions on how to handle sacred items. In Leviticus 10:1-2, Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, resulting in their death. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to God's instructions regarding holy things.

Reverence for God's Name and Word

Reverence extends to God's name and His Word. The third commandment, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain" (Exodus 20:7), highlights the sanctity of God's name. Similarly, reverence for God's Word is evident in passages like Psalm 119:11, "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You," indicating a deep respect and commitment to living according to Scripture.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, reverence continues to be a vital aspect of the Christian life. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts believers, "Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." This passage reinforces the call to approach God with a heart of reverence, recognizing His holiness and majesty.

The Apostle Paul also emphasizes the proper handling of holy things in the context of the Lord's Supper. In 1 Corinthians 11:27-29, he warns against partaking in an unworthy manner, urging self-examination and discernment of the body of Christ.

Implications for Believers

For believers today, reverence and the proper handling of holy things involve a heart attitude that honors God in all aspects of life. This includes worship, prayer, the study of Scripture, and the observance of sacraments. It calls for a lifestyle that reflects the holiness of God, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Reverence is not merely an outward action but an inward disposition that influences how believers interact with the sacred, ensuring that all things are done for the glory of God.