How does the fear of the Lord relate to 2 Kings 17:25? Setting the scene 2 Kings 17:25 describes the early days after Assyria resettled pagan peoples in the former Northern Kingdom: “At the beginning of their dwelling there, they did not fear the LORD, so He sent lions among them, which killed some of them.” What “fear of the LORD” means • Awe, reverence, and wholehearted submission to God’s revealed will (Deuteronomy 10:12). • A humble recognition of His holiness and our accountability before Him (Psalm 33:8). • The foundation of true wisdom and knowledge (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10). When fear is absent—consequences • The settlers ignored the One who owned the land; judgment followed immediately. • Lions were not random; they were God-sent messengers underscoring His authority. • The episode echoes covenant warnings: disobedience brings discipline (Leviticus 26:21-22). God’s purpose in sending the lions • To awaken conscience and direct the people to seek Him (2 Kings 17:27-28). • To uphold His name in the land He had claimed for His glory. • To remind Israel—and us—that God’s patience has limits when His fear is despised. Fear that leads to life, not terror • The same Lord who judged offers mercy to those who repent (Psalm 34:4-9). • Genuine fear produces obedience and blessing, not paralyzing dread (Proverbs 14:26-27). • In Christ we find perfect love that casts out crippling fear while deepening reverent awe (1 John 4:18; Hebrews 12:28-29). Key takeaways for today • Reverence is non-negotiable; ignoring God invites discipline just as surely now as then. • National or personal relocation never exempts anyone from honoring the Creator. • God will go to great lengths—even fierce ones—to reclaim rightful fear and worship. Scripture highlights on fearing the LORD • Deuteronomy 6:24 – Fear is meant “for our good always.” • 2 Chronicles 17:10 – Fear of God brings peace with surrounding nations. • Psalm 112:1 – “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in His commandments.” • Acts 9:31 – Early churches “walking in the fear of the Lord…were multiplied.” Reverent fear—far from outdated—is the pathway to wisdom, protection, and life, as 2 Kings 17:25 vividly illustrates. |
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