Faith without religion.
Understanding the Fear and Reverence of God: A Reflection on Exodus 20
In a recent teaching, Shawn McCraney explored the complex relationship between humanity and the divine as depicted in Exodus 20. This passage describes a significant moment for the Israelites, newly freed from Egyptian slavery, as they stand at Mount Sinai to receive the commandments from God. The scene is filled with dramatic elements—thunder, lightning, and a smoking mountain—that evoke fear among the Israelites, prompting them to ask Moses to communicate with God on their behalf. McCraney explains that this fear is a natural response to the unfiltered presence of God’s holiness and truth.
Moses reassures the people, emphasizing that God’s intention is to instill a reverent fear, not terror. McCraney points out the distinction in Hebrew between being frightened and having moral reverence. While the Israelites initially experience terror, Moses encourages them to cultivate a deep respect and awe for God’s holiness. This teaching highlights the dual nature of fear, suggesting that while God is a consuming fire, He is also an embodiment of incomprehensible love. Through Christ, believers are invited to approach God with confidence, recognizing Him as a loving Father while maintaining reverence for His holiness.
McCraney uses the analogy of the sun, which provides life and warmth but also demands respect due to its power, to illustrate God’s holiness. The Israelites’ experience serves as a reminder of the importance of reverence and obedience in our relationship with God. Reflecting on this teaching, we are encouraged to find a balance between fear and love in our spiritual journey, allowing reverence for God’s holiness to transform fear into profound respect that guides our actions and deepens our faith.
