Fear That Frees
Key Takeaways
The fear of man enslaves us, while the fear of God sets us free.
Fear of man manifests in various ways, including codependency, peer pressure, and the need for approval.
The fear of God is not terror, but awe and reverence for his majesty and holiness.
Fearing God more than people leads to boldness, joy, and faithful obedience.
Study Questions
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How have you seen the fear of man operating in your own life? Where do you experience it holding you back?
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The sermon mentions that we're "hardwired to fear." Do you agree? Why or why not?
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How does Pastor John describe the difference between the fear of man and the fear of God?
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Reflect on a time when you felt in awe of God's presence or power. How did that experience impact you?
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The sermon contrasts the religious leaders (enslaved by fear) with the apostles (freed by fear of God). What differences do you notice in their attitudes and actions?
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How might the fear of God change our approach to relationships and work?
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Verses 30-32 give us three steps to cultivate the fear of God: gaze at the cross, receive his mercy, and surrender to his Spirit. Which of these resonates most with you right now, and why?
5-Day Devotional
This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist
CALL TO WORSHIP
Leader: O God, we meditate on your unfailing love as we worship in your temple. As your name deserves, O God, you will be praised to the ends of the earth. Your strong right hand is filled with victory!
People: Let the people on Mount Zion rejoice. Let all the towns of Judah be glad because of your justice!
Psalm 48:9-11
Confession of Faith
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
*catholic here means the universal church
Confession of Sin
Almighty and merciful Father, we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed. You have called us to boldness, yet we have feared people more than you. You have given us joy in Christ, yet we have shrunk back from suffering for his name. Forgive our fear and unbelief. Strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may proclaim Christ with joy, whatever the cost, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
ASSURANCE OF PARDON
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.
Romans 5:8-9





Looking Ahead
Next week’s scripture: Acts 6:1-7