I recently observed a conversation where someone emphasized the necessity for unbelievers to FEAR God. While I appreciate their sentiment and understand their traditional view, I would like to present a different perspective that centers on the profound love and goodness of God.
In scripture, we are encouraged to “taste and see that the God is good” (Psalm 34:8). This isn’t just an idle invitation; it’s a call to experience God’s love, grace, and mercy firsthand. Our relationship with God shouldn’t be rooted in being afraid but in understanding that God’s goodness leads men to repentance, a change of mind (Romans 2:4). Only in His presence do we begin to comprehend the depth of His love. We start to see that it’s His kindness, not His wrath, that draws us into a closer relationship with Him. Being taught to be afraid of Him only prevents this from happening; it ultimately leads us to heartbreak and failure!
The term “fear,” as it appears in the Bible, often carries a different connotation than we might think. It’s a respect and honor that originates from a genuine and intimate relationship with the Father. This fear is not a paralyzing terror but a deep respect and awe for a perfect and loving Daddy. It is a reverence that happens in relationship with Him! Remember, “taste and see that God is good!”
So the question arises: Should unbelievers fear judgment or, better yet, be concerned about the consequences of their sin? The answer is yes, but how this awareness comes about is crucial. The awareness of sin through the law leads to us wrath, punishment, and fear. This type of awareness ends in frustration and self-doubt, making transformation unsustainable and impossible. It’s a weight that can never be carried and a mentality of “I’ll never measure up.” Paul covers this multiple times throughout his writings.
On the other hand, when we encounter Love, THE FATHER, we begin to recognize our error and realize He has provided us a way out through His unconditional love in Christ! This is the awareness of sin by grace through faith that begins our relational journey of transformation. The Bible assures us in John 3:18 that “whoever believes in him is not condemned.” That is GOOD NEWS!
This brings us to the impact of knowing that Christ has already taken upon Himself ALL judgment for our sins. Jesus, through His sacrifice, has removed the fear of condemnation. This is not meant to be a license to sin or behave recklessly but a revelation of the grace we receive from a Father who loves His children unconditionally. His grace empowers us to live righteously and leads us away from behaviors that would harm us. He is a good Father!
Understanding this grace changes everything. Instead of living in a state of fear, we can approach God with assurance and confidence. The more we dwell in His goodness, the more we are transformed. A real and right relationship with God is not centered on the fear of punishment but on the joy of knowing that He is a good Father and loves us no matter what.
Think of it this way—every parent desires a relationship with their children that is characterized by love, trust, and respect. A good father doesn’t want his children to live in constant fear. Instead, he seeks to guide, empower, and nurture them. He is intent on them learning from their mistakes and growing into responsible adults. Similarly, our heavenly Father longs for us to experience and mature in life through His sustaining love—a love that invites us to walk in forgiveness by grace instead of fearing His wrath due to our shortcomings.
As we acknowledge our failures and imperfections, we have the incredible opportunity to surrender them to Him. The act of surrender is where the true power of grace begins. We can bring our fears, doubts, and sins before Him without shame because Jesus has already paid the price for ALL of them; even while we were still sinners. Where is the FEAR in that? He embraces us not with judgment but with open arms as children of right standing with Him!
We all have our own journey and in it we are called to share this understanding with others, especially those who may not believe (1 Peter 2:12). Instead of leading with fear or condemnation, we ought to invite them to experience the goodness of God. When we embody the truth that God desires a relationship with everyone, we can help others see He is not a distant judge but a Father who wants to share His perfect love—someone who truly wants what is best for them.
While it is important to recognize the consequences of sin, we should remember that God’s heartbeat is for relationship. AT always says, “God is what He is, but Father is who He is.” His goodness leads us to repentance—not fear, or being afraid. Let’s choose to live in the light of His love and encourage others to do the same. There is no greater freedom than living in the assurance of God’s grace, knowing that we are unconditionally loved and accepted. It’s the love of God that changes the world, not fear! God is love, and according to John, “perfect love casts out fear!” I say, give ’em love, not fear!
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Blessings!
Pastor Jason
