FEAR NOT THEM WHICH KILL THE BODY

FEAR NOT THEM WHICH KILL THE BODY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 10:28-31

Key Verse: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul…” (Matthew 10:28)

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:35-39, Psalm 27:1, Hebrews 13:5-6, 2 Timothy 1:7

Description: This study reveals the victory believers have over fear through trust in God’s sovereignty, protection, and eternal promises.

INTRODUCTION

In Matthew chapter 10, Jesus prepared His disciples for persecution, rejection, and opposition. He warned them that following Him would not always be easy, yet He repeatedly encouraged them not to fear. Jesus taught that while men may harm the physical body, they cannot destroy the eternal soul that belongs to God.

Fear is one of the enemy’s greatest weapons against believers. Fear weakens faith, discourages obedience, and hinders spiritual boldness. However, Jesus calls His followers to live with confidence, courage, and trust in God’s power and eternal care.

Believers are secure in God’s hands. No earthly opposition, threat, or persecution can separate God’s children from His love and eternal promises.

1. BELIEVERS MUST FEAR GOD ABOVE MAN

The fear of God overcomes the fear of people.

a) Jesus warned against fearing those who kill the body (Matthew 10:28)
Human power is temporary and limited.

b) God alone has ultimate authority (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Reverence for God should govern the believer’s life.

c) Fear of man brings bondage (Proverbs 29:25)
Seeking human approval can weaken spiritual conviction.

d) The fear of God produces wisdom and confidence (Proverbs 9:10)
Reverence for God strengthens spiritual stability.

Biblical Example:
The Hebrew midwives feared God more than Pharaoh and refused to destroy the Hebrew children (Exodus 1:15-21).

2. GOD CARES DEEPLY FOR HIS CHILDREN

Believers are precious and valuable before God.

a) Not a sparrow falls without God’s knowledge (Matthew 10:29)
God is aware of every detail concerning His people.

b) The very hairs of your head are numbered (Matthew 10:30)
God’s care for believers is personal and intimate.

c) God promises never to abandon His children (Hebrews 13:5)
His presence remains constant in every season.

d) Divine love removes fear (1 John 4:18)
Confidence in God’s love strengthens believers inwardly.

Biblical Example:
Hagar encountered God in the wilderness and discovered that He saw and cared for her situation (Genesis 16:7-13).

3. GOD GIVES BELIEVERS COURAGE IN TIMES OF OPPOSITION

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to stand boldly.

a) God has not given us the spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7)
Believers receive power, love, and a sound mind through the Holy Spirit.

b) God strengthens His people during trials (Isaiah 41:10)
The Lord upholds and sustains His children.

c) Christ gives peace in troubled times (John 14:27)
Divine peace overcomes anxiety and fear.

d) Boldness comes through faith in God (Acts 4:29-31)
Prayer and the Holy Spirit increase spiritual courage.

Biblical Example:
David faced Goliath boldly because his confidence rested in God rather than human ability (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

4. ETERNAL SECURITY IN CHRIST REMOVES FEAR

Believers have victory through God’s eternal promises.

a) The soul belongs to God eternally (Matthew 10:28)
Eternal life through Christ is secure and everlasting.

b) Nothing can separate believers from God’s love (Romans 8:35-39)
Trials and persecution cannot destroy God’s covenant relationship.

c) Heaven is the believer’s ultimate hope (John 14:1-3)
Eternal promises strengthen believers during earthly trials.

d) Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33)
Believers share in His victory and triumph.

Biblical Example:
Stephen remained fearless even while facing death because he saw the glory of God and the risen Christ (Acts 7:54-60).

CONCLUSION

Jesus taught His disciples not to fear those who can only harm the body. God’s children belong to Him eternally, and His care, protection, and promises are greater than any earthly threat.

Believers must walk in the fear of God, confidence in His love, courage through the Holy Spirit, and assurance of eternal victory through Jesus Christ. Fear loses its power when faith rests fully in God.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, remove every spirit of fear from my life in Jesus name

2. Father, help me to fear and honour You above all men in Jesus name

3. Lord, fill my heart with courage and boldness in Jesus name

4. Father, strengthen my faith during opposition and trials in Jesus name

5. Lord, let Your peace rule over every anxious situation in my life in Jesus name

6. Father, remind me daily of Your love, care, and protection in Jesus name

7. Lord, help me to stand firm for truth without compromise in Jesus name

8. Father, deliver me from intimidation and discouragement in Jesus name

9. Lord, let the Holy Spirit strengthen and guide me continually in Jesus name

10. Father, help me to remain faithful until the end in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Every spirit of fear and intimidation is broken from your life today!

2. The courage and boldness of the Holy Spirit shall rest upon you!

3. You shall stand firm and unshaken in every opposition!

4. God’s peace shall rule over your heart and mind continually!

5. No threat or attack of the enemy shall overcome you!

6. Divine protection shall surround you everywhere you go!

7. Your faith shall grow stronger through every challenge and trial!

8. God shall uphold and preserve you by His mighty hand!

9. You shall walk confidently in the victory of Jesus Christ!

10. Your life shall end in triumph, honour, and eternal glory!