Fear and Opposition

Matthew 10:21-42 Read the New Testament in a Year: Acts 15:22-41 As Jesus sends them out he warns them that they will face a lot of opposition: ‘I am sending you out like sheep among wolves’ (10:16a). They will need pure wisdom (‘be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves’, v.16b). They will be opposed by ‘local councils’ (v.17), face hatred (v.22), be persecuted (v.23) and be called demonic (v.25). It is in this context that Jesus says three times, ‘Do not be afraid’ (vv.26,28,31). Do not be afraid about what to say First, he says, ‘Do not be afraid of them’ (v.26). You do not need to be afraid of other people, however powerful they may be (for example local councils, governors and kings, vv.17–18): ‘Without knowing it, they’ve done you – and me – a favour, giving you a platform for preaching the kingdom news! And don’t worry about what you’ll say or how you’ll say it. The right words will be there; the Spirit of your Father will supply the words’ (vv.17–18). Do not be afraid of what others will do to you Second, rather than fearing those who can ‘kill the body but cannot kill the soul’, fear God, ‘who can destroy both soul and body in hell’ (v.28). Have a healthy respect for an all-powerful, as well as all-loving God. ‘Save your fear for God, who holds your entire life – body and soul – in his hands’ (v.28). Do not be afraid of what will happen to you Third, he says that if you fear God you need fear no one and nothing else. God is in ultimate control: ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father’ (v.29). Not only is he in control but he also loves you deeply: ‘Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, then; you are of more value than many sparrows’ (vv.30–31, AMP). God cares what happens to you even more than you do (v.30).]]>