Topical Bible: Godly Fear: Those Who Have: Converse Together of Holy Things

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Godly fear, often understood as a reverent awe and respect for the Almighty, is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith. It is a fear that draws believers closer to God, encouraging them to live in accordance with His will and to engage in holy conversations that edify and build up the body of Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of godly fear is deeply rooted in Scripture. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This fear is not a paralyzing dread but a profound respect that leads to wisdom and understanding. It is this reverence that compels believers to engage in conversations centered on holy things, as they seek to grow in their faith and encourage one another.

Examples of Holy Conversations

1. Malachi 3:16 : "At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them. So a scroll of remembrance was written before Him regarding those who feared the LORD and honored His name." This passage highlights the importance of believers coming together to speak of the Lord and His deeds. Their conversations are not only heard by God but are also recorded as a testament to their faithfulness.

2. Acts 2:42 : "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." The early church exemplified godly fear through their commitment to fellowship and the sharing of holy teachings. Their gatherings were marked by discussions that centered on the teachings of the apostles and the life of Christ.

3. Colossians 3:16 : "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." This verse encourages believers to let the word of Christ permeate their conversations, teaching, and admonishing one another in wisdom. Such interactions are a reflection of godly fear, as they are rooted in the desire to honor God and grow in spiritual maturity.

Characteristics of Godly Conversations

· Centered on Scripture: Conversations among those who fear the Lord are often grounded in the Word of God. They seek to understand and apply biblical truths to their lives, using Scripture as the ultimate authority and guide.

· Encouraging and Edifying: Ephesians 4:29 instructs, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." Godly conversations aim to build up and encourage fellow believers, offering grace and support.

· Reflective of Christ's Love: John 13:34-35 reminds believers of the new commandment to love one another as Christ has loved them. Conversations among those who fear the Lord are marked by love, patience, and kindness, reflecting the character of Christ.

· Focused on Spiritual Growth: Those who engage in holy conversations do so with the intent of growing in their faith and helping others do the same. They discuss spiritual disciplines, share testimonies, and seek to understand God's will for their lives.

Impact on the Community of Believers

The practice of conversing together about holy things has a profound impact on the community of believers. It fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, as individuals come together to seek God's presence and guidance. Such interactions strengthen the faith of the community, providing a foundation for collective worship, service, and mission. As believers engage in these conversations, they not only honor God but also inspire one another to live lives that reflect His glory and grace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Malachi 3:16
Then they that feared the LORD spoke often one to another: and the LORD listened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought on his name.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

An Appeal to Children of Godly Parents
... before." If the earth had opened under the godly man's feet ... sure that you would be
in trouble for fear of going ... going to follow in the footsteps of those I love ...
/.../spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/an appeal to children of.htm

The Oration on Holy Baptism.
... of joy and gladness, [4157] spoken into godly ears, that ... with suspicion at your
insatiate desire, for fear you should ... nor of the slothful, nor of those who are ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xl the oration on.htm

A Description of Heart-Purity
... Now to a godly heart the fame and honour of the ... the flesh and spirit, perfecting
holiness in the fear of God ... 8 Note the examples of those who have been eminent ...
/.../16 a description of heart-purity.htm

Sermon for the Fourth Sunday after Trinity
... Wherefore, in godly faithfulness, I counsel thee ever to ... and keep ever alive within
you the fear of God ... sins and misdoings; and especially upon those who, after ...
/.../xx sermon for the fourth.htm

Inexcusable Irreverence and Ingratitude
... without excuse." Many of you have had godly parents, you ... Those last words may be
read, "Who hold down the ... I fear that there are some such persons, who have ...
/.../spurgeons sermons volume 38 1892/inexcusable irreverence and ingratitude.htm

Intercession Every Christian's Duty
... any people depends on the zeal and godly conversation of ... that you have heard," and
of those which your ... to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling ...
/.../selected sermons of george whitefield/intercession every christians duty.htm

"On Conscience"
... that in simplicity," with a single eye, "and godly sincerity, we ... We find some who
fear where no fear is; who are ... they know the price of sins, as those do who ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 105 on conscience.htm

Some Scriptures for Daily Practise.
... They may fear that they are lifeless, because there is ... There are those who really
love, yet whose nature is ... whole of your life into the habit of acting godly. ...
/.../orr/how to live a holy life/some scriptures for daily practise.htm

Letter xi. --For 339. Coss. Constantius Augustus ii, Constans I ...
... with godliness, the Apostle says, And all those who will live godly in Jesus ... not
befall every man in this world, but only those who have a holy fear of Him ...
/.../select works and letters or athanasius/letter xi for 339 coss constantius.htm

Manner of Covenanting.
... God, or of public vowing to him, seeks to have in vigorous ... both under Jehoash and
Josiah, and those of Judah ... It should be performed with godly fear and reverence ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter ii manner of covenanting.htm