Jumpstarter 9 of 10

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Question 9

Two remedies are offered: for ignorance, “knowledge and clear proof from the testimony of the Scriptures”; for inability, “training…regulated by the discipline of faith and fear,” both developing into “perfect love”; how does “fear” as a discipline confront modern evangelical instincts about grace and freedom, and what would it look like for faith-and-fear training to actually produce love in concrete behaviors?

Another way to ask: How does using “fear” as a spiritual discipline challenge how many evangelicals think about grace and freedom? What would training in faith and fear look like if it really produced love in your daily actions?

Direct Answer “Fear” as a discipline confronts the instinct to treat grace as removing the need for moral seriousness; in the transcript, fear is part of the Logos’ training that restrains lust and forms obedience. This training is meant to mature into “perfect love,” shown in concrete obedience to God’s commands and love of neighbor.

Support from Transcript:

Remedy for inability: “training that comes from the Logos. This training is regulated by the discipline of faith and fear.”
“Both disciplines develop into perfect love,” so fear is not the end goal but part of formation.
Knowledge remedy: “clear proof from the testimony of the Scriptures,” showing grace doesn’t replace learning.
Love is tied to commandments: Romans 13:9 is quoted, fulfilling commands by loving neighbor.
“We must never pervert the truth…by gratifying our own lust and vanity,” implying fear helps resist self-gratification.

Discussion Follow-ups How have you defined “freedom” in a way that excuses lack of discipline? What specific acts of neighbor-love (truth-telling, honesty, purity) would show faith-and-fear training is producing love?

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Jumpstarter 9 of 10