2 Timothy 1:6-14

Introduction:

1. As we close out this series, we ponder a battle that is essential to the whole war.

2. In addition to a deceiver, distractor, discourager, etc., Satan is an intimidator.

3. Courage is not absence of fear, it is the ability to do what we must in the face of fear.

Discussion:

I. Healthy Versus Unhealthy Fear

A. Fear is a natural part of life, but different types of fear produce different results.

B. We discover two different types of fear in the American Heritage Dictionary:

1. Agitation, anxiety caused by the presence or imminence of danger (2 Timothy 1:6-8).

2. Extreme reverence or awe, as toward a supreme power (Proverbs 1:7; 8:13; 16:6).

II. Dangers of Unhealthy Fear

A. Paul wrote 2 Timothy to secure Timothy’s faithfulness to God despite Paul’s execution.

B. Fear of harm can paralyze us and cause us to fall away from God (Hebrews 10:35-39).

1. Abraham twice lied about Sarah’s identity out of fear (Genesis 12:10-20; 20:1-18).

2. The Israelites turned back from Canaan out of fear (Numbers 13-14; Hebrews 3:7-4:11).

3. Saul lost his kingdom because he feared the people over God (1 Samuel 15:24).

4. The whole Israelite army was paralyzed by one Philistine giant (1 Samuel 17).

5. Peter denied Jesus out of fear (Matthew 26:69-75- as did the rest; cf. vv. 30-35).

6. Peter withdrew from Gentile Christians for fear of the circumcision (Galatians 2:11-12).

III. Overcoming Fear with Faith

A. In contrast to the examples above, deep, abiding faith conquers fear (Hebrews 11).

B. No question those who faced such dangers were afraid, but they believed in God and all that is revealed in His word (Hebrews 11:32-38; cf. Matthew 26:36-46; 2 Timothy 1:9-12; 4:6-8).

C. Such faith replaces unhealthy fear with healthy fear (Matthew 10:22-, 26-39).

Conclusion:

1. Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33), defeated death (1 Corinthians 15:54-58; 2 Timothy 1:10; Hebrews 2:14-15), and given assurance of eternal life (1 John 5:13).

2. “So, we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:6; Psalms 56:4)