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NCF Sunday Worship

October 16, 2022 • Pastor Bob Becker • Exodus 20:18–21, Psalm 111:10, Psalm 34:7–11, Matthew 10:24–31

What did the Israelites fear in hearing God speak His Law? Was it the Law itself or God’s judgment if they broke His Law? It was both. However, the latter was primary. God cannot look upon sin, that is, He cannot leave it unpunished. Heb. 10:31: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” However, perfect love casts out fear. We find joy in fearing God not just because we find joy in His holiness, but also His holiness drives us to our need for Jesus Christ. The Law after condemning us drives us to Jesus Christ when the Holy Spirit gives us the eyes to see how holy our God is and how sinful we are. He reveals to our hearts we need a mediator between us and God and that mediator is Jesus Christ. Therefore, there is joy in fearing our Lord. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey what I command” (John 14:15).