Reverence, a profound respect and awe for God, is a central theme throughout the Bible. It is an attitude that acknowledges God's supreme authority, holiness, and majesty. Reverence is not merely an external display but a heartfelt disposition that influences one's actions, thoughts, and worship.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of reverence is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word often translated as "fear" (yirah) encompasses reverence, awe, and respect. In Deuteronomy 10:12, Moses instructs the Israelites: "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 is not terror but a reverential awe that leads to obedience and love.

The Psalms frequently emphasize reverence as essential to worship. Psalm 89:7 declares, "In the council of the holy ones, God is greatly feared, and awesome above all who surround Him" . This reverence is due to God's holiness and His position as Creator and Sustainer of all things.

Reverence in Worship and Conduct

Reverence is integral to worship, as seen in the instructions for the tabernacle and temple worship. The meticulous details in the construction and rituals underscore the need for approaching God with respect and honor. Leviticus 19:30 commands, "You must keep My Sabbaths and have reverence for My sanctuary. I am the LORD" . This reverence extends beyond the physical space to the attitude of the worshiper.

The prophets also called for reverence in the people's conduct. Malachi 1:6 highlights the lack of reverence among the priests: "A son honors his father, and a servant his master. But if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is your fear of Me? says the LORD of Hosts to you, O priests who despise My name" . Reverence is shown through honoring God in all aspects of life.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, reverence remains a vital aspect of the Christian life. Jesus exemplified reverence in His relationship with the Father, often withdrawing to pray and demonstrating submission to God's will. Hebrews 5:7 notes, "During the days of Jesus’ earthly life, He offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the One who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence" .

The apostles taught that reverence should characterize the believer's life. In 1 Peter 1:17, Peter writes, "Since you call on a Father who judges each one’s work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners" . This reverence is a response to God's holiness and the redemption provided through Christ.

Reverence in the Church

The early church understood the importance of reverence in communal worship and personal conduct. Acts 2:43 describes the early believers: "A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs" . This awe, or reverence, was a response to the presence and power of God among them.

Paul, in his letters, often urged believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, which includes reverence. Ephesians 5:21 instructs, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" . This mutual submission is an expression of reverence for Christ's authority and example.

The Role of Reverence Today

Reverence remains essential for believers today. It shapes how Christians approach God in prayer, worship, and daily life. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire" . This passage reminds believers of the seriousness and holiness of God, calling for a response of reverence in all aspects of life.