“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12.4-7
Jesus is dropping truth bombs left and right. I mean, it’s amazing. He’s teaching thousands and speaking on a wide variety of topics about what it means to know God and have a relationship with Him. This, in my opinion, was His central theme.
Side note—did you know that John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Church, who wrote hundreds of sermons, essentially preached on just three topics: how to become a Christian, how to be a Christian, and how to remain a Christian? It was all about a relationship with God and living in His Kingdom.
But back to Jesus. Here He reminds people of who is truly in charge and of our immense value to Him. He tells them not to fear the devil, Satan, or evil people. In verse 4, He says, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more.” Don’t worry about that temporary threat. Rather, fear (or stand in awe of) Him “who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell” (eternal separation from God). Have a healthy fear and respect for God—don’t fear the devil or those who work for him.
But don’t fear hell if you know and love Jesus, because “the very hairs of your head are numbered.” Even the sparrows are not forgotten!
Truth bombs: Respect God. Don’t worry or fear evil. Turn to God—He cares for you.
In a world where life is short and any of us could pass at any moment, isn’t it reassuring that the Lord is in our midst? He is good and faithful. He is glorious. He causes the grass to turn green, the birds to sing, and He purposes each of our days. And aren’t we grateful?
Trust in the Lord today. Turn your heart back to the One who has turned His heart to you.
“O Lord, I celebrate You this day. If I were Jewish, I would be preparing for Your holy Shabbat—Your Sabbath. But in my heart, I am making preparations to walk with You this day, to turn my focus upon Your love and to know the truth of Your love. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with Your power. Allow me to know that You are good and that Your love endures forever.” Amen.