2006-09-21 09:10:20 · 25 answers · asked by Cosmic I 6 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
No. You can't love something when you are afraid of it. (Though, that part in the Bible which says "fear God" is a pi.ss poor translation... the actual word there is Respect God).
Don't get me wrong. I'm certainly not trying to convert anyone to the Bible as I'm Pagan. Just clarifying things. (smile)
2006-09-21 09:15:40 · answer #1 · answered by NightShade 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you are talking about the Christian "fear of the Lord," you have to understand the connotations involved. This isn't simply "I'm scared" fear - this is the realization and acknowledgment that God is so much greater than us that God deserves our respect.
The Roman Catholic Church used to say that one of the gifts of the Holy Spirt was "Fear of the Lord." They now call that gift "Wonder and Awe of God." I hope that helps clarify the difference.
And to answer your question, yes you can when you look at the word "fear" in a certain light.
2006-09-21 09:15:11 · answer #2 · answered by Church Music Girl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
...Yes, certainly. Romans 5:1 says, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
...Proverbs 1:7 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."
...And why not? He has promised a home in Heaven, and to meet my every need while I am here. I have His word to guide me, His Spirit to empower me - where can you find a better deal than that?
...What's the worst that could happen to me - death? - then I go to be with Him! I do not have to fear that any more.
2006-09-21 09:20:43 · answer #3 · answered by carson123 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why are so many people still so hung up on the word 'fear'? Does it scare you that much, or do you just not understand what the 'fear of God' really means? It means having a healthy respect for his majesty. Jesus says it best:
[Luke 12:4] I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more.
[Luke 12:5] I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one.
2006-09-21 09:18:46 · answer #4 · answered by Robert L 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In very much the way I love the parents whom I feared to disobey as a child.
2006-09-21 09:12:02 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes. We Christians love God, but we also fear Him. That doesn't mean we are afraid of Him. By 'fear', we mean respect. We know what He has the power to do, and we respect that power with great reverance.
2006-09-21 09:13:58 · answer #6 · answered by Red 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, can you not love your father on Earth, while still having a healthy fear/respect for that which he could have done to you when disobedient?
2006-09-21 09:12:18 · answer #7 · answered by westfallwatergardens 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The fear ends when youre born again
2006-09-21 09:11:27 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Why fear someone that promises you forgiveness and love? No fear needed.
Peace and love to you.
2006-09-21 09:18:03 · answer #9 · answered by luvwinz 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you are talking about God, why would you fear Him? He only asks that you let Him into your life and spend eternity in Heaven.
"Boo!" said Jesus. See it doesn't work.
It's getting close to Halloween. there's a reason people don't wear Jesus costumes. Not scary.
Bless you
2006-09-21 09:13:49 · answer #10 · answered by Love Shepherd 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋