(Clip) Learning the True Fear of God In Our Day
Zac Poonen teaches that truly fearing God frees believers from fearing anything else in the world, grounding their courage and trust in the Lord alone.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God above all else, highlighting how when God is our ultimate fear and dread, we do not need to fear anything that the world fears. By focusing on God's holiness and sovereignty, we can find courage and strength to face any challenges without succumbing to worldly fears or burdens.
Full Transcript
Once we learn the true fear of God, one of the big advantages is that we don't have to fear anybody else. In Isaiah chapter 8, we read in verse 12 and 13, chapter 8 verse 12 and 13, you're not to say it's a conspiracy. In regard to all that these people call a conspiracy, you're not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it.
In regard to all that these people call a conspiracy, you're not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. We're not to speak the language of the world. People in the world may say this is a burden.
We don't say that. How can God do this to me? Nothing is a burden. And we don't fear what they fear.
It says here they are in dread of some things. We don't fear that. Because, verse 13, the Lord of hosts, we regard as holy, and he is our fear, and he is our dread.
You see the connection there. When God is your fear and your dread, then you don't have any fear or dread what the people in the world fear and dread. When God is your fear and he is your dread, then you don't have any fear or dread what the people in the world fear and dread.
For more than 30 years, this verse has given me more courage. If you come to my house, you'll see written in big letters right in my front room. I've had it for more than 30 years there.
If you fear God, you don't need to fear anything else. So many people in the world try to come and create fear in us.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Do not fear what the world fears
- Avoid speaking the language of fear
- Reject worldly burdens as burdens
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II
- Fear the Lord of hosts as holy
- God is our true fear and dread
- When God is feared, worldly fears lose power
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III
- Personal testimony of courage from Isaiah 8:13
- Living with the fear of God brings boldness
- Fear of God replaces all other fears
Key Quotes
“Once we learn the true fear of God, one of the big advantages is that we don't have to fear anybody else.” — Zac Poonen
“When God is your fear and he is your dread, then you don't have any fear or dread what the people in the world fear and dread.” — Zac Poonen
“If you fear God, you don't need to fear anything else.” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Choose to revere and fear God above all worldly fears in your daily life.
- Reject the language and mindset of fear that the world promotes.
- Meditate regularly on Scripture passages like Isaiah 8:13 to build spiritual courage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to fear God?
Fearing God means revering and honoring Him above all else, recognizing His holiness and authority.
How does fearing God help with worldly fears?
When God is the primary object of our fear, it removes the power of worldly fears and anxieties over us.
Is fearing God the same as being afraid?
No, fearing God is a deep respect and awe, not a paralyzing terror.
How can I cultivate a true fear of God?
Through prayer, studying Scripture, and focusing on God's holiness and sovereignty.
Why does Zac Poonen emphasize Isaiah 8:13?
Because it clearly teaches that fearing the Lord removes the need to fear anything else.