Beyond the Weekend

April 23 | Our Fears

April 23, 2019

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid.” Matthew 28:10a

Read: Matthew 28:1-10

Listen: Matthew 28

TODAY’S MESSAGE

If you spend time reading the events surrounding Jesus’ death and resurrection, you might notice the recurring idea of fear. In Matthew 28, Mary Magdalene and another Mary go to the tomb, and an angel tells them not to be afraid. Then Jesus appears and tells them not to be afraid. In a time of great confusion and anxiety, Jesus reassures them they need not fear.

Jesus’ victory over death shows us we don’t need to be afraid because God is big enough to handle what is going on in our lives. This is difficult to follow and yet the most repeated command in the New Testament. We have a natural tendency to try to control everything, often because of fear. We can experience it any stage of life. We are afraid we won’t be able to find a job, we will lose our job, we won’t find the right spouse, we will lose our spouse, we will look stupid, our body will fall apart as we age, our money won’t last or we will lose our independence. The fear of tomorrow steals the joy of today.

The reason we can trust is not because stuff won’t happen, but because of what Jesus did on the cross. In John 16:33, Jesus says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” The resurrecting God speaks into our fears. No matter what happens, we can trust Jesus.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Commit an area of fear to God. Ask yourself, “What’s my greatest fear right now?” Admit it to God and give it to him. Pray something like, “God I give you my fear of ______. I believe you can handle it. I’m trusting you with this—help me trust you no matter what.” Share your prayer with a trusted friend or small group member so they can encourage you as you journey through the fear.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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