The concept of reverence is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, serving as a fundamental aspect of the relationship between humanity and the divine. Reverence, in the biblical sense, is a profound respect and awe for God, His nature, His commandments, and His works. It is an attitude that acknowledges God's supreme authority and holiness, prompting believers to live in a manner that honors Him.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding reverence through various laws, narratives, and wisdom literature. In Deuteronomy 10:12, Moses exhorts the Israelites, "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul." Here, the "fear of the LORD" is synonymous with reverence, encompassing obedience, love, and wholehearted service.

The Psalms frequently echo this call to reverence. Psalm 89:7 declares, "In the council of the holy ones, God is greatly feared, and awesome above all who surround Him." This verse highlights the reverence due to God even among the heavenly beings, emphasizing His unparalleled majesty and power.

Prophetic Literature

The prophets also underscore the importance of reverence. Isaiah 66:2 states, "Has not My hand made all these things, and so they came into being? declares the LORD. This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word." Reverence here is linked to humility and a contrite spirit, recognizing one's position before a holy God and responding with appropriate fear and respect.

New Testament Continuation

The New Testament continues the theme of reverence, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 6:9, Jesus instructs His disciples to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name." The term "hallowed" signifies reverence, setting God's name apart as holy and worthy of honor.

The apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently calls believers to live in reverence. In Philippians 2:12, he writes, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling." This "fear and trembling" is a call to live with a deep sense of reverence for God, acknowledging the seriousness of the Christian walk.

Reverence in Worship and Conduct

Reverence is not only an internal attitude but also manifests in worship and daily conduct. Hebrews 12:28-29 exhorts believers, "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." Worship, therefore, is to be conducted with a sense of awe, recognizing the holiness and majesty of God.

Furthermore, reverence influences ethical behavior. In 1 Peter 1:17, Peter advises, "Since you call on a Father who judges each one's work impartially, conduct yourselves in reverent fear during your stay as foreigners." This reverent fear is a guiding principle for living a life that reflects God's holiness and righteousness.

Conclusion

The call to reverence is a central theme throughout Scripture, urging believers to recognize and respond to God's holiness with awe, respect, and obedience. It is a call that shapes worship, ethical conduct, and the overall posture of the believer's heart towards God.