Fear is the denomination of the Old Testament; belief is the denomination of the New.

The quote by Benjamin Whichcote, "Fear is the denomination of the Old Testament; belief is the denomination of the New," contrasts the predominant attitudes associated with the Old Testament and the New Testament within Christian theology. Whichcote suggests that the Old Testament is often characterized by a sense of fear—fear of God’s justice, laws, and judgment—while the New Testament centers more on belief, emphasizing faith, grace, and trust in God through Jesus Christ. This distinction highlights the shift from a religion based on law and fear to one based on faith and trust.

The origin of this quote comes from Benjamin Whichcote, a 17th-century English theologian and philosopher, who was a leading figure in the Cambridge Platonists, a group that sought to reconcile reason and religion. Whichcote’s writings often explored the spiritual evolution of Christian doctrine, emphasizing the transformative nature of the New Testament’s message of faith over fear.

This quote reflects a theological interpretation that sees the Old Testament as preparing believers through laws and commandments, often invoking fear as a motivator for obedience. In contrast, the New Testament introduces a more loving and personal relationship with God, where belief and trust replace fear as the foundation of faith. Whichcote’s words underscore the progression in Christian thought from strict legalism to grace-filled belief.

In essence, Whichcote’s quote invites reflection on how the nature of the believer’s relationship with God evolves throughout the Bible. It encourages embracing the New Testament’s emphasis on faith and belief as the guiding principles for spiritual life, moving beyond fear toward a deeper trust in divine love.