His Holiness begins by clarifying that some misunderstand fear in Christianity, thinking it means terror, whereas the Bible distinguishes between holy fear and worldly fear. Christianity knows no terror but reverence and awe before God’s majesty.

He cites Christ’s words in Luke 12: “Fear Him who after He has killed has authority to cast into hell”, explaining that this fear is awareness of divine justice, not paralyzing fear but one leading to repentance and purity.

Perfect Love and Fear

The Pope explains that St. John said: “Perfect love casts out fear.” Those who reach perfect love do not fear, for they live in peace with God. But those who still fall and repent need fear to preserve their spiritual life, fearing to lose the Kingdom or fall again into sin.

Balance Between Fear and Love

Christian life, he says, is a harmony between love and fear. Fear guards against negligence, and love inspires joyful obedience. Whoever truly loves God keeps His commandments. Claiming love without obedience is not true love.

Holy Fear and Worldly Fear

The Pope distinguishes between fear of people or dangers—which Scripture rejects—and holy fear that leads to righteousness. The believer does not fear death or evil but says with David: “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”

Sonship and Servanthood

He refutes the idea that the Old Testament was the age of servanthood and the New one of sonship. God called humans His children from Adam, as Isaiah says: “You, O Lord, are our Father.” Yet the believer remains a servant out of humility, as the Virgin Mary said: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord.” Thus, the believer unites the dignity of a child with the humility of a faithful servant.

Spiritual Balance

The Pope teaches that believers should use Scripture wisely:

• When the devil tempts them with despair, they remember they are God’s children.

• When he tempts them with pride, they remember they are unworthy servants.
  Both sonship and servanthood are necessary for a balanced Christian life.

The Message of the Agpeya

He concludes that the Agpeya nurtures this balance: it teaches reverent fear and respect for God while filling the heart with peace, joy, and trust in His loving care.

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