Pleasing God, Making Disciples of Jesus Christ

When I Am Afraid – Part 4

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.  John 20:19-22

A. The Fear-Conquering Power of Christ’s Word: John 20:19-22

1. His Word is authoritative to defeat the power of fear: Matthew 4:1-11, Isaiah 55:11

2. His Word is trustworthy to defeat the lies of fear: 2 Samuel 22:31, Psalm 119:140, Matthew 24:35

B. The Fear-Conquering Power of Christ’s Presence: John 20:19-20

1. His Presence brings divine love to calm fears and emotions: John 9:35-39, John 11:32-36

2. His Presence grants divine companionship to be enjoyed

“Jesus came and stood among them”: 1 John 1:1-4, Luke 22:14-15, John 17:24

3. His Presence keeps divine perspective of circumstances: John 16:33, Romans 8:17-18, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18