“I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Luke 12:4-7 ESV)
Most of us have seen the stickers on cars or front doors with houses with a picture of a gun that says "fear this." It warns intruders to stay away. But Jesus is speaking to His friends. We are to fear nothing, save a healthy reverence for our Father in heaven, and that fear is to be balanced with the rest of His character, including His love and mercy. That proper balance will keep us living to please Him, and also prompt us to fearlessly speak for Him, unafraid of any negative reaction we may receive.
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