A barber was a bit nervous about his resolution to mention God to each of his customers. As he prepared to shave a young man, he strained to muster up enough courage to speak a word about God. Finally, after fretting for several minutes, in a deep voice he asked, “Young man, are you prepared to die?” The barber turned pale as the young man jumped out of his chair and shouted, “Not if I can help it!”
Fear is a great deterrent to evangelism. Reaching out to othersis risky business and there will be times when we may feel rejected. The Bible warns us that “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim. 3:12). Yet, in spite of the risk, it is worth the effort. We must always be looking for ways to show compassion to others. We cannot allow fear to keep us from doing the right thing. Peter says, “But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence…” (1 Pet. 3:14-15).
Fear is a serious problem when it keeps us from obeying the will of God. Among those who will have a part in the lake of fire, as mentioned in Revelation 21:8, will be the “fearful.” It is not surprising that the next group mentioned in that list are the “unbelieving.” Fear is closely connected to distrust and unbelief.
Overcoming fear begins with sanctifying Christ as Lord in our hearts. When Jesus is set apart as Master, it will be reflected in the way we live. Setting aside Christ as Lord demands commitment. We must put His will first and rely on His wisdom for direction. We must also be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within us. Peter is not saying that we must have all the answers to all the questions. But, he is saying that we must have the disposition of heart and mind that is willing to study and share what we have learned with others in a gentle and reverent manner. The reasons for our hope are found in God’s word and it is to God’s word that we must direct those who inquire about our hope.
–Glen Elliott–