Don’t Fear Dr. Neil Epler Matthew 10:24-39 | June 21, 2026
The Word fear or to be afraid: phobeomai or phobos. A committed disciple of Jesus Christ should expect suffering, challenges, persecution, and sacrifice. Jesus never said following Him would be easy. We enter it with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). Yet He reminds us not to be afraid and to remember that He has overcome the world (John 16:33 and 1 John 4:18). 1) Do not be afraid to serve like your master. (Matthew 10:24-25a) 2) Do not be afraid when they call you names. (Matthew 10:25b) Matthew 5:11-12 3) Do not be afraid of things said or done in secret. (Matthew 10:26) 4) Do not be afraid of those who kill the body. (Matthew 10:28a) 5) Be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matthew 10:28b) Proverbs 1:7 6) Do not be afraid for you are of great worth. (Matthew 10:29-31) 7) Do not be afraid to acknowledge and witness for God. (Matthew 10:27, 32-33) 8) Do not be afraid when conflicts arise. (Matthew 10:34-37) 9) Do not be afraid to take up your cross. (Matthew 10:38-39) Luke 9:23 The call to be a commissioned follower of Jesus Christ is serious business. It will be costly. But remember, you are of great worth and you will be blessed beyond what you can imagine.