Questions for 2/8: Reverence
The Christian Virtues
Discussion Sheet #9
Reverence
In 1 Peter 1:56, “godliness” (NAS) is listed as one of the Christian virtues. The meaning of this term is obscured by translation. What thoughts come to mind when you hear the word “godliness?”
The Greek word that lies beneath “godliness” is eusebeia, which literally means “proper fear or reverence.” This word, therefore, might better be translated as “reverence.” As we shall see, the virtue of reverence might be defined as the disposition to feel and act with proper awe and respect. It is also sometimes translated as “piety,” “worship,” “religion,” or “religious duty.”
1. According to the Bible, toward what two types of beings should humans have reverence?
a. Timothy 2:2 ; 1 Timothy 5:4
b. Acts 17:23 (the word for “worship” here is the verb form of eusebeia = “show awe/reverence)
2. What are the sources and sustainers of reverence?
1 Timothy 3:16
1 Timothy 6:3
Titus 1:1
2 Peter 1:3
3. With what other qualities are reverence/piety associated in the following verses?
Acts 3:12
2 Timothy 3:5
2 Peter 3:11
4. Paul’s statements to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:6-16 and 1 Timothy 6:3-10 are especially important passages for understanding reverence. List at least six insights that these verses provide concerning the nature of reverence.
Discussion Sheet #9
Reverence
In 1 Peter 1:56, “godliness” (NAS) is listed as one of the Christian virtues. The meaning of this term is obscured by translation. What thoughts come to mind when you hear the word “godliness?”
The Greek word that lies beneath “godliness” is eusebeia, which literally means “proper fear or reverence.” This word, therefore, might better be translated as “reverence.” As we shall see, the virtue of reverence might be defined as the disposition to feel and act with proper awe and respect. It is also sometimes translated as “piety,” “worship,” “religion,” or “religious duty.”
1. According to the Bible, toward what two types of beings should humans have reverence?
a. Timothy 2:2 ; 1 Timothy 5:4
b. Acts 17:23 (the word for “worship” here is the verb form of eusebeia = “show awe/reverence)
2. What are the sources and sustainers of reverence?
1 Timothy 3:16
1 Timothy 6:3
Titus 1:1
2 Peter 1:3
3. With what other qualities are reverence/piety associated in the following verses?
Acts 3:12
2 Timothy 3:5
2 Peter 3:11
4. Paul’s statements to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:6-16 and 1 Timothy 6:3-10 are especially important passages for understanding reverence. List at least six insights that these verses provide concerning the nature of reverence.
posted by John | 5:32 PM
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