If you are following Jesus, your motivation matters – and fear is a powerful motivator. It helped bring the thief and the first Gentile convert to Jesus (Luke 23:40, Acts 10:2). The Philippian jailer was “trembling with fear” when he asked Paul and Silas, his prisoners who had definitely not escaped, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:29-30). No wonder Paul later wrote to the Philippians to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). When we realize how awesome God is, how far from His goodness our lives really are, and how He allowed His sinless Son to die for our sins – fear is an entirely appropriate response. It may very well have motivated many of us to obey the gospel.
Yet is fear of being lost still your motivation? When it comes to Jesus, are you a fugitive running from something or an athlete running to something? The fugitive is looking back, only running until he thinks he is out of his pursuer’s reach. The athlete, though? She is looking forward, running until she reaches the finish line. Drenched in sweat and legs cramping, she will push herself ahead even when it is difficult, just to experience the joy of finishing the race. That is why Jesus and His apostles do not challenge us to just fear hell but to fear God. “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor,” Peter said (I Peter 2:17). Paul said fear of God motivates holiness and proves repentance (II Corinthians 7:1,11). Running from hell only ever looks for the minimum safe distance.
Maybe that is why when people reacted to Jesus with reverent fear – because He calmed a storm, walked on water, or rose from the grave – the first thing He said was, “Do not be afraid” (Mark 4:41, Matthew 14:27, 28:10). Jesus does not want short-term, self-serving sprints away from danger: He seeks people who will follow Him over the long haul in a way fear of hell just cannot motivate. A fiery sermon warning Christians to obey the Great Commission or risk forfeiting their salvation might motivate a few clumsy attempts to invite someone to church, but the effects will be poor and short-lived. A person who through their fear of God truly comes to know and love Him, though? That is a person who will not only go amazing places but will even enjoy the journey.
So, what is your motivation?
There are so many reasons to be afraid right now. Because we are with Jesus, we do not have to be. Check out our sermon series “Do Not Be Afraid” to learn more!