WHEN MEN NO LONGER FEAR GOD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Romans 3:18
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 1:7, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, Psalm 36:1-4, Jeremiah 2:19, Malachi 3:16-18
INTRODUCTION:
The fear of God is the foundational principle of wisdom and godly living. It produces reverence, obedience, and humility before the Creator. However, we live in a time when many have thrown off the fear of God and embraced lawlessness, pride, and rebellion. The Scriptures speak of generations that “had no fear of God before their eyes” (Romans 3:18), leading to moral collapse and divine judgment.
When men no longer fear God, society is plunged into spiritual darkness. The boundaries of righteousness are removed, and evil becomes celebrated. God is no longer revered, and His Word is treated with contempt. From governments to homes, the consequences of a godless culture are visible—corruption, immorality, broken families, and decay.
This message is both a warning and a call to return to godly fear—a holy reverence that honours God's authority, obeys His commandments, and trembles at His Word.
1. WHAT IT MEANS TO FEAR GOD
The fear of God is not terror, but reverent awe and submission to God’s holiness and authority.
a) It Means Honouring God Above All (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
To fear God is to take His Word seriously and make His will our priority.
b) It Produces Wisdom and Discernment (Proverbs 9:10)
Godly fear enables us to choose righteousness over sin.
c) It Involves Hatred for Evil (Proverbs 8:13)
Those who fear God turn away from wickedness and deception.
d) It Leads to Obedient Living (Deuteronomy 10:12-13)
The fear of God compels us to walk in His ways and keep His commands.
Biblical Example: Joseph refused to sin with Potiphar’s wife because he feared God (Genesis 39:9).
2. SIGNS THAT PEOPLE NO LONGER FEAR GOD
The absence of godly fear is revealed in behaviours, choices, and attitudes.
a) Open Rebellion Against God’s Word (Romans 1:28-32)
People approve and practise evil without remorse.
b) Mockery of Holiness and Sacred Things (2 Peter 3:3-4)
Scoffers ridicule God’s commands and promises.
c) Lack of Accountability and Conscience (Psalm 36:1-2)
Sinners no longer blush; there’s no conviction of wrongdoing.
d) Churches Becoming Carnal and Compromised (2 Timothy 3:5)
Many have a form of godliness but deny its power.
Biblical Example: Pharaoh arrogantly defied God and paid a heavy price for it (Exodus 5:2).
3. CONSEQUENCES OF LOSING THE FEAR OF GOD
When godly fear is removed, judgment is inevitable.
a) Moral and Social Breakdown (Judges 21:25)
Every man does what is right in his own eyes.
b) Divine Judgment and Abandonment (Jeremiah 2:19)
God withdraws His protection from rebellious nations and individuals.
c) Spiritual Deception Increases (2 Thessalonians 2:10-11)
When people reject truth, God allows delusion to prevail.
d) Generational Corruption (Exodus 20:5)
The sins of the fathers pass on when there’s no fear of God to stop them.
Biblical Example: The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed because their wickedness had no restraint (Genesis 18:20-21).
4. RESTORING THE FEAR OF GOD
There is hope if we return to reverence and submission to God.
a) Teach the Fear of the Lord to the Next Generation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
Parents and leaders must intentionally pass on godly values.
b) Return to God’s Word as Final Authority (Psalm 119:11)
Hide His Word in your heart to avoid sin.
c) Walk Daily in Humility and Repentance (Isaiah 66:2)
God dwells with those who tremble at His Word.
d) Seek a Fresh Revelation of God's Holiness (Isaiah 6:1-5)
A true vision of God causes us to fall before Him in reverence.
Biblical Example: King Josiah restored the fear of God in Israel by reading and obeying the lost Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:10-13).
CONCLUSION:
The absence of the fear of God is a tragedy in any life, church, or nation. Without it, chaos, deception, and judgment are inevitable. But when we restore godly fear, we attract His presence, wisdom, and favour. We must cry out like David: “Unite my heart to fear Your name” (Psalm 86:11).
Let us return to holy reverence, walking in obedience, trembling at God’s Word, and teaching others to do the same. God is not looking for religion—He is looking for hearts that honour Him above all.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, restore the fear of You in my heart and life.
2. Father, deliver this generation from rebellion and pride.
3. Lord, let Your Word have supreme authority in my decisions.
4. Holy Spirit, convict me where I have compromised reverence for God.
5. Raise leaders in our nation who fear and honour You.
6. Lord, purge the Church of carnal and ungodly influences.
7. Teach our children to walk in godly fear from a young age.
8. Father, let Your holiness fill our homes, pulpits, and streets.
9. Let the fear of God fall again upon Your people.
10. I receive grace to live with awe, reverence, and total submission to You.
