The Fear of the Lord

Abstract

Abstract This chapter offers an analysis of the fear of the Lord as a disposition that closely relates to the virtue of accountability. In conversation with Aquinas, the chapter begins with an analysis of the fear of the Lord as a disposition that accompanies the virtue of accountability (to God). The chapter then turns to engage with Augustine to say something about the limits of this fear. Specifically, it is argued that while the fear of the Lord can play an important role in a person’s journey with God, it should not be understood as anything more than a secondary expression of how a person participates in this story. It must never inspire a story of its own in such a way that a person defines themselves according to their fear of God. Instead, it should merely dispose them towards God so that God might draw them into God’s story.