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Oct 10, 2023 18:30pm

Fear God

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At the start of the year, a teacher wanted to focus on ethics with her class. She had all the students sign an hippocratic oath stating that they would be dedicated to upholding the highest standards. Should a student be found guilty of violating even one of these standards, they would receive a failing grade in the class.

One afternoon, a young man was getting his books out of his locker, when he overheard two of his classmates speaking in hushed voices. The boys had managed to get the answers to the upcoming test. And of course, these weren’t just any boys. They were also the most popular, leaders of practically everything, and came from prestigious families.

The young man acted like he didn’t hear anything, quietly closed his locker and walked away contemplating his next move.

He could remain quiet. No one would have to know. He could pretend like he never heard a thing and had no knowledge of it if the boys were caught cheating.

But what about that oath? Didn’t they all sign it? Didn’t they swear to uphold it?

If he told, he would simply be adhering to his word and the standard that had been set. The boys would surely get a failing grade. Which they deserved if they cheated. But what if the boys found out it was him that told the truth?

What should he do?

“And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.”
Luke 12:4-5

Yesterday, we studied about Jesus’ warning to the disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. These religious leaders publicly touted their love for God and paraded their good deeds in front of others. But they were empty on the inside. They had a head knowledge of God, but not a heart knowledge.

From this passage today, Jesus warns them of misplaced fear. There would come a time when the disciples would have to go against the Pharisees. Naturally, they would be fearful of the repercussions. But Jesus told them not to be afraid of them or what they could do. Instead they should be worried about the One who holds eternity in His hands.

Do not fear man, fear God.

Death may seem like the worst thing imaginable. It’s final. It’s over. There’s nothing left.

But… for a believer, death is simply the beginning. It’s just a step into eternity. Jesus wanted them to see that this flesh is temporary, but our souls are forever. And God is the One who holds that judgment, not man.

Which do you fear?

Will you stand for Christ? Will you say yes to following Him and forsake this world? What if it means others will ridicule you or walk away from you? What if it means becoming something you’ve always ridiculed?

What if it means losing your family? Your job? Your life? Are you still willing to follow Him?

Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, the very Son of God, didn’t fear what man could do. He willingly gave His life through an excruciating death on the cross. All so that you and I could have the opportunity to choose God.

Will you?