What fears does Job mention in Job 31:34, and how are they relevant today? Setting the Scene Job 31 is Job’s sworn statement of innocence. In verse 34 he exposes two very human fears that could have tempted him to conceal sin but, by God’s grace, did not. Identifying Job’s Fears “because I dreaded the great multitude, and the contempt of families terrified me, so that I kept silent and would not go outside.” (Job 31:34) • Fear of the “great multitude” – anxiety over what the crowd might say or do • Fear of “the contempt of families” – dread of rejection, ridicule, or loss of social standing among one’s wider community Job insists he never let either fear silence him or drive him into hiding. The Heart Issue Behind Those Fears • Both fears spring from “fear of man” (Proverbs 29:25). • At stake is whose approval matters most—people’s or God’s. • Job chose integrity before God even if it cost him popularity. Bringing It Forward: Today’s Parallels • Social media backlash, “cancel culture,” and online mobs mirror the “great multitude.” • Family, workplace, or community scorn can still feel crushing—echoes of the “contempt of families.” • Temptations include watering down truth, remaining silent on moral issues, or living a double life to avoid criticism. Scriptural Encouragement Against These Fears • Proverbs 29:25 – “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” • John 12:42-43 – rulers who believed in Jesus yet hid it “for fear they would be put out of the synagogue.” • Luke 12:4-5 – Jesus redirects fear toward God alone. • Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than men.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 – God gives “power, love, and self-control,” not fear. • Psalm 27:1 – “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” Walking in Freedom • Anchor identity in Christ instead of public opinion. • Speak truth with love, trusting God for the outcome. • Cultivate fellowship with believers who value obedience over applause. • Remember eternity: human disapproval is temporary; God’s commendation is forever (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). |
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