How can we avoid the leaders' mistake of fearing man over God? Listening to the Warning in Mark 11:32 “ ‘But if we say, “From men,” ’ … they feared the people, for everyone held that John truly was a prophet.” (Mark 11:32) The chief priests and elders recognized the truth about John the Baptist, yet their choices were shaped by public opinion. Their hesitation offers a clear caution: when we fear people more than we fear God, we forfeit clarity, courage, and obedience. Why Fear of Man Is So Dangerous • It blinds: truth becomes negotiable when acceptance is at stake (Romans 1:21). • It traps: “The fear of man brings a snare” (Proverbs 29:25). • It silences: conviction is muted to keep peace (John 12:42-43). • It steals joy: pleasing crowds never satisfies (Ecclesiastes 1:8). Grounding Our Hearts in a Greater Fear • Fix on God’s supremacy. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body… rather fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28) • Recall His ownership. “To the Lord your God belong the heavens… the earth and everything in it.” (Deuteronomy 10:14) • Admit His rightful authority. “The LORD has established His throne in heaven; His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19) Fuel for Courageous Obedience • Christ’s example: He “endured the cross, scorning its shame” (Hebrews 12:2). • The apostles’ resolve: “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) • Promises of protection: “Whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” (Proverbs 29:25b) • Future accountability: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) Practical Steps to Break Free from People-Pleasing 1. Daily Scripture intake: let God’s voice grow louder than every other. 2. Private worship: cultivate awe when no one is watching (Matthew 6:6). 3. Confession: name specific moments when fear of man dictated your choices (1 John 1:9). 4. Small acts of obedience: practice saying a gracious “yes” to God and a firm “no” to peer pressure. 5. Gospel community: surround yourself with believers who value faithfulness over popularity (Hebrews 10:24-25). 6. Remember eternity: write Revelation 22:12 somewhere visible—Christ’s reward eclipses human applause. Refreshment for the Battle • Isaiah 51:12-13—God personally comforts those tempted to fear mere mortals. • Galatians 1:10—seeking man’s approval makes us servants of man; seeking God’s approval proves we are servants of Christ. • Psalm 118:6—“The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Living Today with Reverent Boldness • Speak truth kindly but plainly, believing God can handle the outcome. • Measure success by faithfulness, not applause. • Let every decision pass this test: Will it please the Lord who sees forever, or merely impress people who pass away? |
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