Sermons

The Fear of the Lord

Our series begins with the famous line from Psalm 111, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” What is the “fear of the Lord?” Our Lutheran Confessional writings speak of it in the context of repentance. Repentance contains two parts: Contrition and faith. These two parts, of course, lead to good works; the fruit of repentance. Citing Luke 24:47 and Psalm 38 (among others), we’re reminded that contrition means genuine sorrow over sin and a desire to be free from it. Then citing Romans 5:1, we’re reminded that “faith uplifts, sustains, and gives life to the contrite… faith receives the forgiveness of sins.” (Apology XII, 28-38) Thus childlike fear of God is where faith in Christ consoles and strengthens the heart that is anxious over sin. Each week Jesus will console and strengthen us through his Word, building our childlike fear, love, and trust in God alone.