When Fear Overcomes Faith: A Biblical Paradox
In this article, you will learn how Judges 6:27 contradicts Matthew 10:28, 1 John 4:18, Galatians 1:10, Psalm 118:6 and Isaiah 41:10. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the story of Gideon, as depicted in the book of Judges, we encounter a man who, despite listening to God, succumbs to human fear. Judges 6:27 illustrates this paradox: Gideon hesitates over what his family and the townspeople might think, leading him to act under cover of night. This reluctance seems to stand in sharp contrast to the messages found elsewhere in the Bible, posing a challenge to reconciling these differing views on fear and faith.
Consider Matthew 10:28, which stresses the importance of fearing God over humans. This verse directly opposes Gideon's trepidation towards his community. It's analogous to someone who hides their talents or beliefs due to social pressure, despite knowing that true fulfillment lies in embracing and expressing them with confidence.
Similarly, 1 John 4:18 asserts that perfect love casts out fear. In situations where love or a deep conviction is present, fear should naturally dissipate. Imagine a parent who bravely defends their child against unfair criticism, their love overpowering any fear of backlash. Gideon's hesitation reflects an incomplete journey towards this kind of perfect love—a love that God portrays throughout scripture.
Galatians 1:10 calls for prioritizing the pleasing of God over people, much like choosing a path less traveled because it aligns with one's values, despite potential unpopularity. Yet Gideon appears caught in the web of social constraints, contrasting with this exhortation to spiritual integrity.
In Psalm 118:6, we find the encouragement that with God on our side, fear of man becomes unnecessary. Isaiah 41:10 echoes this by urging fearlessness, for God is present. These messages resemble the confidence of a tightrope walker who trusts their net, confident despite the height—yet Gideon, at this point, seems unwilling to take significant risks on God's word alone.
These contradictions invite reflection: Can human frailty coexist with divine instruction? How do we reconcile moments of doubt with a faith-driven life?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 6:27 | Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the LORD had said unto him: and [so] it was, because he feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do [it] by day, that he did [it] by night. |
| 2. | Matthew 10:28 | And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. |
| 3. | 1 John 4:18 | There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. |
| 4. | Galatians 1:10 | For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. |
| 5. | Psalm 118:6 | The LORD [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? [on...: Heb. for me] |
| 6. | Isaiah 41:10 | Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. |