The Weekly Show - Episode 71: Fear II (Fear Not)

Join Tim and John as they talk about life and study on why we should not fear.

Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new-beginning and https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/halloween-time

Transition Song: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/

Introduction: Fear Not!

Fear is one of the oldest emotions known to humankind—and still one of the strongest. From the first time Adam and Eve hid in the garden, to the present day, fear has followed us. It takes many forms: fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unknown, fear of loss, fear of death. For some, it’s a low hum in the background of life. For others, it’s a crippling force that steals sleep, joy, and peace.

We live in a world that thrives on fear. News cycles sensationalize danger. Entertainment profits from horror. Social media magnifies our anxieties. Even in the rhythms of our daily lives, we encounter fear: What if I lose my job? What if I get that diagnosis? What if I’m not enough?

Yet over and over again, God speaks to the fear in His people.

One of the most repeated commands in all of Scripture is this: “Do not be afraid.” Not because there is nothing scary in the world—but because God Himself promises to be with us.

• When Abram was afraid of the future, God said, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield” (Genesis 15:1).
• When Joshua was afraid to step into Moses’ shoes, God said, “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
• When Mary trembled at the angel’s words, “Do not be afraid” was the message (Luke 1:30).
• When Jesus approached His disciples walking on water, as they screamed in fear, He told them, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).

God doesn’t minimize fear—but He does outmatch it. He doesn’t say “fear not” as a suggestion or motivational quote. He commands it—because He backs it up with His power, His presence, and His promises.

This message comes at a time when fear is even celebrated in culture. As the so-called “spooky season” rolls around, we find haunted houses, horror films, costumes, and ghost stories. While some of it is playful, much of it glorifies fear. But the Christian response is not to retreat into denial or to pretend fear doesn’t exist—it’s to confront fear with truth.

And that truth is this:

You are not alone. You are not abandoned. You are not without hope.

This study will explore what the Bible actually says about fear, and why followers of Christ can live differently in a fearful world. We'll look at real stories—of people who faced terrifying odds—and how God met them. We'll examine the commands, the encouragements, and the comfort that Scripture offers.

Because at the heart of the gospel is a God who steps into darkness, speaks peace into storms, and leads His people through the valley of the shadow of death—not around it.

So the question isn’t, “Will we feel afraid?”

The question is, “What will we do with our fear?”

This is a message of courage—not rooted in ourselves, but rooted in Christ. He is our strength. He is our peace. He is the reason we can stand firm and say with confidence: “I will not fear… for You are with me.”

Key Theme One: Why Fear Not?

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Fear Is Natural—But Not Sovereign

Fear is one of the most instinctive human reactions. It’s hardwired into us for survival. A sudden noise, an uncertain future, a threatening situation—fear tells us to pay attention. But while fear is natural, it was never meant to rule us.

God never condemns His people simply for feeling fear—but He does command us not to remain in it. Isaiah 41:10 shows us why.

Why Not Fear? Because God Is With You

The first reason God gives is His presence:

“Fear not, for I am with you.”

When fear shouts, “You’re alone!”—God gently but firmly says, “No, you’re not.”

This is not empty reassurance. It is the steady, unchanging promise of the Almighty. The same God who walked with Abraham, stood beside Moses, and filled the temple in Isaiah’s vision now stands with you. Not just beside you—but fighting for you.

“I am your God.” That’s not a generic blessing. It’s personal. Covenantal. Relational. He doesn't just say, “I am Go