Biblical Answer

The Bible commands us to "do not fear" a total of 107 times in the Old Testament and 42 times in the New Testament. This frequency indicates that the concept of fear is a significant theme throughout Scripture. The word "fear" in the Bible often conveys a sense of awe, reverence, and respect, rather than just a negative emotion. For example, the phrase "fear of the Lord" is used to describe a deep love and reverence for God. This concept is closely tied to the idea of worship and obedience to God's commands. The Bible teaches that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Prov. 1:7), and that it is a key aspect of a healthy relationship with God.

When we look at the various commands to "do not fear" in Scripture, we see that they are often given in the context of God's presence and power. For example, in Isaiah 41:10, God says, "Do not be afraid, for I am with you." Similarly, in Deuteronomy 31:8, Moses says, "Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." These commands are not meant to dismiss the reality of potential threats or dangers, but rather to remind us that God is always with us and that we can trust in His power and protection.

The Bible also teaches that the fear of God is closely tied to the idea of faith in Jesus Christ. In Acts 13:26, the apostle Paul says, "Whosoever among you fears God, to you is this word of salvation sent." Here, the phrase "fears God" denotes a sense of sin and a predisposition of mind to receive the remission of sins through faith in Jesus Christ. This highlights the importance of having a deep reverence and respect for God, not just as a means of avoiding fear, but as a fundamental aspect of a healthy and vibrant faith.