You’re Not The Boss Of Me, Part 5: “Fear”
October 29, 2023

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Message Review

All of us walk through life with occasional fear. And it’s not always a bad thing. Fear is a byproduct of our ability to think about what might happen in the future, and it can protect us from harm. However, living with too much fear can cause us to be self-absorbed, distracted, and overly protective. But the good news is this: You don’t have to be afraid even when there’s something to be afraid of.   

Main Point: You don’t have to be afraid, even when there’s something to be afraid of.  

Scripture References: Matthew 10:28-31; Matthew 14:22, 25-27; 1 Peter 5:7

Bible Study      

The focus Bible passage from the sermon was Matthew 8:23-27. Before going to the Sermon Discussion Questions, study the passage by reading through it together, then talk through it using the Inductive Bible Study Method questions that follow:

  • Context: Discuss the context of this passage (i.e. when it was written, who wrote it, who it was written to, what was going on before and/or after this specific passage, etc.)

  • Observation: What do you notice in this passage?  What words or phrases stick out to you? And why?

  • Interpretation: What was Jesus’s original intent in this passage?  What main point(s) was he trying to communicate, and why is that important?

  • Application: What is one key takeaway or insight you had from this passage? How can or should you apply it to your life?

  • Questions: What questions/tensions do you have from this passage that you would like to discuss?

Discussion Questions

  • What were your initial thoughts or takeaways from the sermon and why?  

  • Have you ever experienced a moment that sent shivers down your spine? Or do you love the thrill of the unexpected? Do you like being scared or surprised, and why?  

  • Pastor Matt said, “Fear is the byproduct of our ability as human beings to accumulate knowledge and project that knowledge into the future.” "What are your thoughts on this explanation of fear?” 

  • The same ability that allows us to fear is the same ability that allows us to imagine, hope, and dream. Why do we prioritize focusing on fear over hope and dreams for the future? 

  • Read Matthew 8:26-27 with your group. If you were present at that moment, how would you have reacted/responded? 

  • Read Matthew 10:28-31 with your group. What are some things people fear that can “kill the body but cannot kill the soul”?  

  • When you feel fear bubbling up inside what has been your go-to mechanism to cope?  

  • Read 1 Peter 5:7 with your group. Knowing that Peter faced a lot of afflictions why do you think he was able to rest in this passage?  

  • What concerns or apprehensions do you have regarding the future?  

  • What would it look like, or sound like for you to take Peter’s advice and “cast all your cares on Jesus”?  

To watch or listen to Sunday’s sermon, visit our Sermons page.