Q&A: Does Phillipians 2:12 Mean To Actually Fear God Or Respect Him?

Question: Does Phillipians 2:12 Mean To Actually Fear God Or Respect Him?

Donald Bohanon: Both. It means to respect and fear God. Phillipians 2:12, actually commands us to workout our own salvation with fear and trembling. Obviously, there is no trembling associated with mere respect. Individuals tremble when they are actually frightened of something not when they respect an individual.

True fear ensures that you continue in righteousness to avoid the consequences the wicked will reap. It acts as motivation to continue in righteousness to avoid the consequences of walking in abominable rebellion and wickedness and is more powerful and impactful in that regard than just respect.

The fear will be a reality because if you continue in abominable sin unrepentant the consequences for it will be extremely frightening. Numerous verses in scripture explain this. So both fear and respect is what’s required.