Book of Luke - Chapter 12 - Verse 5

The verse "But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him." is found in the book of Luke in the New Testament of the Bible. In this verse, Jesus is cautioning his disciples about the importance of fearing God above all else. The fear of God in this context does not refer to a sense of terror or dread, but rather a deep reverence and awe for God's power and authority. Jesus is emphasizing that God has the ultimate power to determine the fate of one's soul, even after death. By fearing God, one acknowledges His sovereignty and submits to His will. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize a relationship with God above all other concerns and to live a life that is pleasing to Him, as He ultimately holds the power to judge and determine the eternal destiny of each individual.

When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, it is crucial to understand the concept of fear as it pertains to reverence and awe towards God. The verse emphasizes the fear of God over any other earthly fear, highlighting the power and authority that God holds over life and death. The phrase "after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell" underscores the ultimate judgment and punishment that God can administer. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and the need to live a life in accordance with his will. The fear of God in this context is not based on terror, but on a deep respect for his authority and righteousness.