What Does It Mean to Walk in the Fear of the Lord?
When you hear the word “fear,” you probably think of phobias, not worship. So what does the Bible mean when it tells us to walk in the fear of the Lord? Is God asking us to be afraid of Him?
In this sermon from Acts 9:31, Pastor Adam Weatherly explains that the fear of the Lord means to revere, honor, and worship Him. It is a deep awe of God’s holiness and power as Creator and Judge, and it leads to trust and obedience.
Acts 9:31 tells us that after Saul’s dramatic conversion, the church had peace and was being built up. Walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied. This message looks at what that meant for the early church and what it means for believers today.
In this message, you will learn:
What “walking in the fear of the Lord” means in Acts 9:31
How Saul’s conversion changed the early church
Why God first gave the fear of the Lord as a command in Deuteronomy 6
The Hebrew meaning of “fear,” and why Scripture presents both a positive and a serious side
What Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Luke 12, and Hebrews 12 teach about godly fear
How reverence for God leads to obedience, spiritual growth, and a multiplying church
Preached to a church in Spain, this message is for anyone who wants to grow in their faith and see the church grow. It includes a discussion of judgment and hell. Scripture quotations are from the English Standard Version (ESV).
About Pastor Adam and the Showing the World Podcast
Pastor Adam Weatherly and his wife Bethany serve as Assemblies of God missionaries in Spain, where Adam serves with Global University. Only about 1.6% of Spaniards know Jesus as Savior. The Showing the World Podcast shares sermons, Bible teaching, and stories from the mission field.
Partner with us in Spain. If this message encouraged you, would you consider becoming a Pillar Partner? Your monthly giving helps us return to Spain to train pastors and reach people with the gospel. Give or learn more here.
Questions for Personal Reflection or Small Groups
What comes to mind when you hear “fear of the Lord”? How is it different from other fears you experience?
In what areas of your life are you more concerned about people’s opinions or threats than about walking in the fear of the Lord?
How does your reverence for God influence your daily decisions, actions, and relationships?
Are there areas where God is calling you to deeper obedience? How can you respond this week?
How can walking in the fear of the Lord empower you to stand against temptation and sin?
