This relates with the second half of v28–
28 …Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
Three times in this chapter, Jesus tells us, don’t be afraid. But one time here, Jesus says, be afraid. There is a positive kind of fear. Be afraid of the one who can destroy soul and body in hell.… Read more
Last week we talked about faith from Matthew 9 and we didn’t spend a whole lot of time looking at the end of the chapter when Jesus looks at the crowds and he had compassion on them and he said, the harvest is plentiful, there are souls that are ripe for harvest, people who are in need and who are on the verge of salvation, but the problem is there’s a shortage.… Read more
Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences. 2 Corinthians 5:11
The fear of God is the greatest deterrent for sin (Exod. 20:20; Prov. 16:6). Those who perceive God as a benevolent and gentle grandfather will treat their sin superficially.… Read more