We Fear What We Revere

Fear is powerful

Our response to the power of our deepest fears is given strength by the seriousness with which we take them.

This is not simply a “ridiculous” curse from harry potter. Some of what we fear is deeply troubling.

Do we take God and who he is with the seriousness that is due to him?

How do I demonstrate that fear is a cage and a poison that will control and destroy the mind and the heart? Not because it is unfounded but because we are on the wrong foundation.

English Standard Version (Chapter 10)

28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

English Standard Version (Chapter 29)

25  The fear of man lays a snare,

but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.

English Standard Version Psalm 27

1  The LORD is my light and my salvation;

whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the stronghold of my life;

of whom shall I be afraid?

2  When evildoers assail me

to eat up my flesh,

my adversaries and foes,

it is they who stumble and fall.

3  Though an army encamp against me,

my heart shall not fear;

though war arise against me,

yet I will be confident.

4  One thing have I asked of the LORD,

that will I seek after:

that I may dwell in the house of the LORD

all the days of my life,

to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD

and to inquire in his temple.

5  For he will hide me in his shelter

in the day of trouble;

he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;

he will lift me high upon a rock.

Unshackled: Finding Freedom from Fear

Bible Passage: Proverbs 29:25, Psalm 27:1–5, Matthew 10:28–31

Summary: Fear can imprison us, leading to anxiety and inaction. Proverbs, Psalms, and Matthew encourage us to trust in God, for He is our protector and hope, offering a path to freedom from fear's grip.

Application: This sermon can help teens understand that despite their fears—whether fear of failure, rejection, or the future—they are not alone. By placing their trust in God, they can navigate their fears and see them transform into faith-filled courage.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that fear is a universal experience, but it does not have to control our lives. Through faith in Christ, we learn to embrace courage, knowing God is with us and our worth is found in Him.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of scripture, Christ embodies the ultimate trust and reliance on God the Father. His life and teachings invite us to cast our fears on Him, assuring us of His presence and love, especially in our vulnerability.

Big Idea: We can break free from the trap of fear through faith in God's promises, recognizing our true worth and safety in Him.

Recommended Study: I suggest using your Logos library to explore the Hebrew poetic structure of Psalm 27, which may reveal deeper insights into its themes of trust and fear. Additionally, consider the context of Matthew 10:28-31 and how the early church interpreted fear in light of persecution. Analyzing cross-references of Proverbs 29:25 could also enrich your understanding of fear's consequences and the wisdom in trusting the Lord.

1. Freedom from Fear's Trap

Proverbs 29:25

Perhaps you could explore how fear can act as a trap, paralyzing us and preventing growth. By trusting in God, we break free from its grip. Emphasize that safety and freedom are found not in pleasing others but in placing our faith in God's sovereignty.

2. Fearless in God's Light

Psalm 27:1–3

Maybe focus on how God's presence is our light and salvation, dispelling fear's darkness. Highlight how the psalmist's confidence in God's strength empowers courage and resilience against adversaries. This reflects our call to rely on God's strength over personal fears.

3. Sheltered in God's Presence

Psalm 27:4–5

You could delve into seeking God's presence as a refuge from fear. Stress the importance of dwelling in the Lord's house and meditating on His beauty. This teaches us to find security in divine fellowship, reminding us of Christ's invitation to abide in Him.

4. Valued Beyond Fear

Matthew 10:28–31

Encourage a focus on the eternal perspective Christ gives regarding fear. As Jesus reassures His followers of their worth and God's intimate care, we learn that God's protection extends beyond earthly threats, fostering a courage rooted in divine love and purpose.

Fear and Reverence: The Heart of Trust

Bible Passage: Proverbs 29:25, Psalm 27:1–5, Matthew 10:28–31

Summary: This theme explores the relationship between fear and reverence. Proverbs highlights the snares of human fear, Psalm 27 emphasizes the strength found in the Lord, and Matthew reassures us of God’s care amid our fears.

Application: As teens grapple with the many fears and pressures of life, this sermon seeks to encourage them to redirect their reverence toward God rather than fear what surrounds them. By placing their trust in Him, they can overcome emotional, social, and spiritual anxieties.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that our reverence shapes our perception of fear. When we fear God, we diminish our fears of the world. Trusting in God as our fortress allows us to confront life’s challenges with confidence.

How this passage could point to Christ: In Christ, we see the ultimate model of reverence leading to fearless living. Jesus invites us to cast our cares upon Him, reminding us that He holds ultimate authority and care over our lives.

Big Idea: When we revere God above all else, our fears diminish and we are empowered to live boldly and confidently in His strength.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, I suggest exploring the nuances of the Hebrew words for 'fear' and 'revere' in Proverbs 29:25 and their implications in a cultural context. Look at how Psalm 27 can be viewed through the lens of trust and security in biblical narrative. Using Logos, consider commentaries that discuss the interpretations of Matthew 10:28-31 regarding God’s providential care and how this shapes our fears.

1. Fear's Fatal Trap

Proverbs 29:25

You could begin by emphasizing how fear of people can trap and hinder young people from living freely for God. Maybe highlight that by revering God above all, they will find a release from fear's snares. Direct them to consider how trust in the Lord leads to safety and confidence in their daily lives.

2. Fortress of Faith

Psalm 27:1–3

Perhaps unpack the assurance found in acknowledging the Lord as our light and salvation. Encourage teens to reflect on how David's confidence, rooted in reverence for God, dispelled his fears in the face of adversity. This approach could help young people find strength in the Lord’s presence amid their own struggles.

3. Focus on His Presence

Psalm 27:4–5

Maybe lead them to explore the beauty of desiring God’s presence above all distractions. Highlight how dwelling in His presence offers protection and peace. This focus could inspire teens to prioritize spiritual practices, trusting God to shelter them from life's storms.

4. Reverence Overcomes Fear

Matthew 10:28–31

You could reassure teens that God values them deeply, as seen in these verses. Emphasize how reverence for God, who knows even the hairs on their heads, can transform their fear into trust. Perhaps challenge them to live boldly, knowing they are cherished and cared for by their Heavenly Father.