Do Not Be Afraid

General Message of the Lecture

This lecture focuses on the meaning of fear in the life of a believer, distinguishing between natural fear, sinful fear, and holy fear that leads to wisdom and salvation, while emphasizing God’s repeated command: “Do not be afraid.”

Main Spiritual Themes

1. Fearlessness, Strength of Heart, and Faith
   The truly spiritual person does not fear, not because of recklessness, but because of inner strength rooted in faith and reliance on God. Faith grants courage, as seen in the prophet David who faced Goliath trusting in God’s intervention.
2. Natural Fear
   There is a natural type of fear that is neither sinful nor a sign of weakness, such as fear of divine visions, the unknown, death, pain, or illness. This kind of fear was experienced by prophets, saints, and apostles and is a normal human reaction.
3. Sinful Fear
   There is fear that results from weak faith, fear of people, or fear of persecution and suffering. God addresses this fear with encouragement and His constant promise of presence and support for His children and servants.
4. Fearlessness in Service and Witness
   Throughout history, God’s children did not fear the hardships of service or persecution because they trusted that God was with them. Thus, the apostles and martyrs faced suffering and martyrdom with joy and courage.
5. Holy Fear (Fear of God)
   There is a righteous and holy fear: fear of falling into sin and losing eternity. This fear protects a person, makes them vigilant, and keeps them away from the causes of sin. Scripture calls this fear: “The beginning of wisdom is the fear of God.”
6. From Fear to Love
   Holy fear may be the beginning of the spiritual journey, but as a person grows in love for God, love casts out fear, and love becomes the primary motivation instead of fear.

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