The Phrase ‘Fear and Trembling” in Paul’s Letters

Before leaving the phrase “fear and trem­bling” (Phil. 2. 12), the word trembling is worthy of some thought. The combin­ation is exclusive to Paul’s letters and appears firstly in 1 Cor. 2. 3, where Paul describes himself being with the Corinthian brethren “in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling”. Bear­ing in mind the considera­tion of fear last month, we can dismiss the notion that Paul was in fear for his own safety or ashamed of the Truth. To the contrary, his life is a shining example of courage and devotion to the Master. This example was set in reverence and trem­bling anxiety to perform his duty to the utmost of his ability; and this is the extent of the thought behind the word “trembling”.

Trembling may be the physical manifestation of an inward feeling we call nervousness, which, far from being a bad thing, creates that intensity which is the real essence of greatness and produces an effect that the merely efficient and competent cannot achieve. Great artists and speakers are those whose hearts beat faster while they await their performance. As we approach the service of God each day our hearts should beat faster because of the high and holy calling to which we are called. Perfunctory living is not good enough. Paul tells the Ephesians (6. 5), “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, and singleness of heart as unto Christ, not with eye service, as men­ pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart”. This exhortation may be put into effect in our daily living and providing our anxiety to do God’s will is genuinely from the heart, a richer and more satisfying experience will result.

The scriptures supply our spiritual food and necessary admonition. In the example of the Corinthians (2 Cor. 7. 15), let us receive it as they received Titus from Paul—in fear and trembling. The maintenance of a proper sense of reverence for God’s word, allied to our wholehearted endeavors to do His will, is exacting but highly rewarding. Therefore, let us work at our salvation in reverence and awe with a trembling eagerness to live in the example of our Master.