Scripture

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather be afraid of the One who can kill both body and soul in hell.”

Observation

Jesus tells us not to be afraid of people. We are to proclaim from the rooftops that which He whispers in our ears.

We must not fear people for they can only destroy our body. Rather, we must fear God who can destroy both body and soul in hell.

Whoever acknowledges Jesus before men He will acknowledge before the Father. Whoever disowns Jesus before men He will disown before the Father.

Application

We should not be afraid of people. They can only end our mortal life. They have no power over our immortal soul and our eternal life.

Many christians are paralysed by fear of rejection. They will not talk to their unbelieving friends because they are afraid of their reaction.

In many countries, it is potentially deadly to be identified as a christian. Persecution from government or village leaders, or family members can result in isolation, imprisonment, or death.

The cost of following Jesus is very real.

The cost of not following Jesus is far greater, because it costs us our salvation.

Better to suffer a little while at the hands of people than to suffer for eternity.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you warn us to not fear people. Please help me to entrust everything to you so that fear has no hold over me. Amen.