Psalm 36:1 suggests the wicked have “no fear of God”—how is this reconciled with other biblical texts claiming innate moral awareness (Romans 2:14–15)?

Definition of Key Terms

Fear of God in the Hebrew Bible (“יִרְאַת יְהוָה”) is often understood as reverential awe, respect, and recognition of God’s authority and holiness. Psalm 36:1, referencing those who have “no fear of God,” indicates a posture of defiance or disregard for divine authority. Meanwhile, Romans 2:14–15 asserts that even those outside the covenant community (the Gentiles) possess an internal sense of right and wrong given by God. The question arises: How can Scripture claim that the wicked have “no fear of God” (Psalm 36:1) but simultaneously affirm an innate moral awareness (Romans 2:14–15)?

Context of Psalm 36:1

“Transgression speaks to the wicked in the depths of his heart; there is no fear of God before his eyes.”

This psalm highlights how the wicked follow the voice of transgression instead of heeding any moral restraint. The phrase “there is no fear of God” signifies their refusal to acknowledge God’s rightful place as moral authority. A lack of fear here does not necessarily imply total ignorance of morality; it denotes willful disregard for God’s rightful claim over their thoughts and actions.

Examination of Romans 2:14–15

“Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law, since they show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts either accusing or defending them.”

This passage underlines that all humanity, regardless of religious background, has an internal compass—an inherent sense of morality. Paul points out that even those who do not possess explicit revelation (such as the Mosaic Law) experience conscience-driven conviction. This “law written on their hearts” aligns with the broader scriptural testimony that moral knowledge is woven into human nature.

Reconciling the Two Passages

1. Willful Suppression versus Basic Awareness

Psalm 36:1 depicts those in a state of rebellion against God, where transgression “speaks” to them, drowning out the innate moral guidance they possess (cf. Romans 1:18–20). While moral awareness exists, the wicked ignore or rationalize away such truth, causing them to live as though they have “no fear of God.”

2. Reverential Fear versus Cognitive Awareness

“Fear of God” involves more than mere intellectual recognition; it embraces reverence, loyalty, and a personal submission to God. Even if wicked individuals know right from wrong, they often reject a reverent attitude, dismissing the weight of God’s holiness in their decision-making.

3. Conscience as a Gift Not Always Heeded

Romans 2:14–15 underscores that every individual is endowed with a conscience. Yet, this conscience can be “seared” (1 Timothy 4:2), hardened, or easily ignored, demonstrating that innate knowledge can be overshadowed by persistent rebellion.

Biblical Examples and Support

- Cain (Genesis 4): Cain clearly knew the moral weight of murder, yet he disregarded it, displaying no reverence for God’s authority. Although he possessed moral awareness, his actions revealed a “lack of fear of God.”

- Pharaoh (Exodus 5–14): Pharaoh encountered clear evidence of the Lord’s power, but his heart was hardened, exemplifying someone who, despite witnessing miraculous plagues and signs, failed to bow in submission.

Archaeological and Manuscript Corroboration

Texts such as Psalm 36 have been preserved in manuscripts found among the Dead Sea Scrolls, notably those discovered in Qumran, dating as far back as the second century BC. These ancient copies align with the Masoretic Text tradition, attesting to the reliability and consistency of Scripture’s message. This corroboration underscores that passages highlighting the wicked’s lack of fear of God were transmitted accurately through the centuries, reflecting a continuous understanding of divine judgment on unrepentant hearts.

Philosophical and Behavioral Insight

From a behavioral standpoint, Scripture points out that moral truths are universally recognizable (Romans 1:20; 2:14–15). Nonetheless, people choose to suppress these truths, demonstrating that the absence of the fear of God is not due to an absent moral compass, but a willful dismissal of it. Across cultures, one finds laws and ethics echoing the same moral standards Scripture declares—indicating an internal moral code—yet widespread transgression reveals a global reluctance to honor God fully. Humans often engage in self-justification, ignoring convictions that demand accountability to a higher moral authority.

Practical Application

1. Heart Attitude Matters

A healthy fear of God emerges not merely from intellectual assent but from a heartfelt acknowledgment of God’s character and lordship. Believers guard against the subtle drift into complacency by regularly evaluating how they respond to their own moral convictions.

2. Nurturing Conscience

Spiritual disciplines—prayer, Bible study, and fellowship—foster a well-informed and sensitive conscience. Reflecting on passages like Psalm 36:1 reminds believers to honor God actively and reject patterns of godlessness.

3. Hope for the Rebellious

Throughout Scripture, God offers grace and forgiveness, even for those who walk in defiance. The promise of transformation (Ezekiel 36:26) testifies that no individual is beyond God’s redemptive power. Despite their “lack of fear,” God’s Spirit can awaken hearts to recognize His authority and mercy.

Conclusion

Psalm 36:1’s depiction of the wicked having “no fear of God” does not contradict the assertion of innate moral awareness in Romans 2:14–15. Rather, it demonstrates how rebellious humanity can suppress or dismiss the very moral consciousness instilled within them. Scriptural teaching affirms that all individuals possess an internal sense of right and wrong, while also highlighting that many reject the reverential awe that true fear of God entails. This tension showcases the reality of free will, the universal presence of conscience, and humanity’s persistent need for divine grace and transformation.