Fear That Frees

Fear That Frees | Acts 5:11-42

John Bourgeois, Lead Pastor

Key Takeaways

• The fear of man enslaves us, while the fear of God sets us free.

• Fear of man manifests in various ways, including codependency, peer pressure, and the need for approval.

• The fear of God is not terror, but awe and reverence for his majesty and holiness.

• Fearing God more than people leads to boldness, joy, and faithful obedience.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  How have you seen the fear of man operating in your own life? Where do you experience it holding you back?

• Question 2

  The sermon mentions that we're "hardwired to fear." Do you agree? Why or why not?

• Question 3

  How does Pastor John describe the difference between the fear of man and the fear of God?

• Question 4

  Reflect on a time when you felt in awe of God's presence or power. How did that experience impact you?

• Question 5

  The sermon contrasts the religious leaders (enslaved by fear) with the apostles (freed by fear of God). What differences do you notice in their attitudes and actions?

• Question 6

  How might the fear of God change our approach to relationships and work?

• Question 7

  Verses 30-32 give us three steps to cultivate the fear of God: gaze at the cross, receive his mercy, and surrender to his Spirit. Which of these resonates most with you right now, and why?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Overcoming the Fear of Man

READING :

Proverbs 29:25 and Acts 5:17-29

DEVOTIONAL :

The fear of man is a powerful force that can paralyze us and prevent us from living out our faith boldly. In Acts 5, we see the apostles facing intense opposition from religious leaders, yet they remained steadfast in their commitment to obey God rather than men. Reflect on areas in your life where the fear of others' opinions or disapproval might be holding you back from fully following Christ.

APPLICATION :

Ask God to give you the courage to stand firm in your faith, even when it's difficult or unpopular. Remember, "The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe" (Proverbs 29:25).

Day 2 : Embracing the Fear of God

READING :

Proverbs 9:10 and Psalm 111:10

DEVOTIONAL :

The fear of God is not about terror or dread, but rather a deep reverence and awe of his holiness and majesty. It's the recognition that God is infinitely greater than we are, yet he loves us deeply. As you meditate on these verses, consider how cultivating a proper fear of God might change your perspective on life's challenges and temptations. How might it influence your decisions and priorities?

APPLICATION :

Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your reverence for God and to help you see his greatness in new ways today.

Day 3 : Finding Freedom in God's Love

READING :

Romans 8:31-39 and 1 John 4:18-19

DEVOTIONAL :

Perfect love casts out fear. When we truly grasp the depth of God's love for us in Christ, it frees us from the bondage of fear and insecurity. Reflect on the incredible truth that nothing can separate you from God's love. How does this reality impact your sense of worth and security? In what areas of your life do you need to more fully embrace God's unconditional love?

APPLICATION :

Take time to thank God for his unfailing love and ask him to help you live in the freedom it brings.

Day 4 : Courage in the Face of Opposition

READING :

Acts 4:13-31 and 2 Timothy 1:7-8

DEVOTIONAL :

The early Christians faced intense persecution, yet they responded with boldness and joy. Their courage came from their connection to Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. Consider the challenges you face in living out your faith. How can you draw strength from God to stand firm, even when it's difficult? Pray for the spirit of power, love, and self-control that Paul mentions in 2 Timothy.

APPLICATION :

Ask God to fill you with his Spirit and to give you opportunities to share your faith with courage and grace.

Day 5 : Rejoicing in Suffering

READING :

Romans 5:1-5 and James 1:2-4

DEVOTIONAL :

The apostles in Acts rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ's name. This paradoxical joy in the midst of trials is a hallmark of mature faith. Reflect on times in your life when difficulties have deepened your faith or character. How can you cultivate an attitude of rejoicing even in challenging circumstances?

APPLICATION :

Ask God to give you his perspective on the trials you face, trusting that he is working all things for your good and his glory. Pray for the endurance and character that come through perseverance in faith.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: O God, we meditate on your unfailing love as we worship in your temple. As your name deserves, O God, you will be praised to the ends of the earth. Your strong right hand is filled with victory!

People: Let the people on Mount Zion rejoice. Let all the towns of Judah be glad because of your justice!

Psalm 48:9-11

Confession of Faith

The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

*catholic here means the universal church

Confession of Sin

Almighty and merciful Father, we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed. You have called us to boldness, yet we have feared people more than you. You have given us joy in Christ, yet we have shrunk back from suffering for his name. Forgive our fear and unbelief. Strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may proclaim Christ with joy, whatever the cost, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.

Romans 5:8-9

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 6:1-7