MEMORY VERSE: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: Generally, fear can be described as a strong uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion caused by actual or perceived danger

threat. It is a basic survival mechanism that signals our body to respond to danger with a fight or flight response. The key word for fear in Greek language is ‘phobos’ from which the common word ‘phobia’ originates. Pecple have phobia from different things and for different reasons. Some pecple are said to be ‘aquaphobic’ -fear of water, ‘acrophobic’-fear of height, ‘nyctophctic’-fear of darkness, ‘gerascophobic’-fear of ageing, ‘anthropophobic-fear of insects, etc. What does the Bible say about fear? What are the common causes of fear? Getting answers to these questions and many more shall be the focus of this study.

OUTLINES

1. What Does The Bible Say About Fear?

2. Biblical Instances of The ‘Spirit Of Fear In Action.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT FEAR?

Scriptures clearly reveal that fear is a spirit (2 Timothy 1:7). It is a spirit that puts people in bondage and torment (Romans 8:15; 1 John 4:18). Believers are sometimes tempted to fear (Psalm 55:5) but are delivered from it (Proverbs 1:33; Isaiah 14:3) by trusting in God (Psalm 27:1). A guilty conscience leads to fear (Genesis 3:8,10; Psalm 53:5; Proverbs 28:1). Fear seizes the wicked (Job 15:24; 18:11) and characterises the wicked (Revelation 21:8). Fear is the consequential opposite of faith (Matthew 14:28-31). One can also be a victim of his fears (Job 3:25).

For the righteous, the Bible admonishes that they should fear not’ (KJV) in several passages and for seven key reasons. This is to assure them of the blessings in the journey of life (Genesis 26:24); supplies in Famine (1 Kings 17:13) protection in peril (2 Kings 6:16); strength in weakness (Isaiah 41:10) companionship in trial (Isaiah 43:1-3); overshadowing care (Matthew 10:30-31);

and life beyond the grave (Revelation 1:17-18).

BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF THE ‘SPIRIT OF FEAR’ IN ACTION

There are instances in the Bible where the spirit of fear operated in or through the lives of some characters. Adam, in hiding from God and attempting to shift responsibility for his sin upon Eve (Genesis 3:8-12). Abraham, in calling his wife his Sister (Genesis 12:11-19; 20:2-12). The Israelites, when Pharaoh and his host pursued in the wilderness before the red sea (Exodus 12:10). Aaron, in yielding to the Israelites, when they demanded an idol (Exodus 32:22-24). The ten spies, in dissuading the Israelites from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 13:28, 31-33). The Israelites, in the battle against Goliath (1Samuel 17:24). David, in fleeing from Absalom (2Samuel 15:13-17). Parents of the blind man, who sight restored to (John 9:22). The disciples, during the storm at sea (Luke 8:25), When they saw Jesus walking on the sea (Matthew 14:25-26) and when Jesus was apprehended (Matthew 26:56). Pilate, in condemning Jesus, through fear of the people (John 19:12-16). Peter and other Christians, at Antioch (Galatians 2:11-14).

If you are truly a believer, resist any attempt at being a victim of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

CONCLUSION: Fear is not a component of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, therefore refuse to entertain fear in your life.

QUESTIONS

1. What does the Bible say about fear?

2. Mention scriptural instances where the spirit of fear manifested.

FURTHER READING: MON: Prov.3:24-26, TUE: Ps.91:4-6; WED: 1 Peter 3:12-14; THUR: Heb.2:14-15, FRI: Luke 12:32, SAT: Isalah 41:13, SUN: 2 Tim.1:7.

ASSIGNMENT: Students should list five areas of life where they experienced fear.