How does Matthew 10:28 connect with Proverbs 9:10 on fearing the Lord? Setting the Scene - Matthew 10 records Jesus sending out His disciples, warning them about persecution and encouraging steadfast courage. - Proverbs 9 is Solomon’s invitation to God’s wisdom, contrasting it with folly’s lure. Key Verse Observations Matthew 10:28: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Defining “Fear of the Lord” - Awe-filled reverence that acknowledges God’s absolute authority and holiness. - Heart-level submission that shapes decisions, speech, and conduct. - Not terror that drives one away, but worshipful respect that draws one close. How Matthew 10:28 Deepens Proverbs 9:10 1. Same Object of Fear • Proverbs calls us to fear “the LORD.” • Jesus names Him “the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” • Both verses direct fear away from human threats toward the sovereign God. 2. Wisdom’s Foundation Meets Gospel Boldness • Proverbs: Fear of the Lord births wisdom—right thinking. • Matthew: Fear of the Lord produces courage—right living in hostile settings. • Wisdom and courage spring from the same root: a settled awareness of God’s supremacy. 3. Eternal Perspective • Proverbs looks forward to a life ordered by divine wisdom. • Matthew sharpens that vision with eternity: the body is temporary, the soul everlasting. • Fear focused on God realigns priorities from temporal safety to eternal destiny (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:18). 4. Holiness and Judgment • Proverbs links fear to “knowledge of the Holy One.” • Matthew highlights God’s role as final Judge (cf. Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 20:11-15). • Reverence for God’s holiness naturally includes respect for His judgment. 5. Completeness of God’s Care • Jesus adds reassurance: the One we are to fear is also the Father who numbers our hairs (Matthew 10:29-31). • True wisdom knows God as both righteous Judge and caring Father—two sides of the same coin (cf. Psalm 103:11-14). Practical Implications for Today - Evaluate fear: Do threats to comfort or reputation outweigh awe of God? - Cultivate wisdom: Regular Scripture intake (Psalm 19:7-9; 2 Timothy 3:16) roots the heart in fear of the Lord. - Embrace bold obedience: Speak truth and live righteously, knowing only God holds eternal power over soul and body. - Seek deeper knowledge of the Holy One: Worship, fellowship, and obedience feed understanding. Living It Out Together - Memorize both verses; let them answer each fear that surfaces. - Encourage one another with eternal perspectives when persecution or ridicule arises (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Celebrate God’s holiness and fatherly care in song and testimony, reinforcing reverent confidence over human anxiety. |
    |