MOTIVATING FEAR
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Fear can be an effective motivation for people to make changes in their lives. As such, it has been used by politicians, preachers, and peddlers throughout history.
The easiest way to move a crowd or population is to unite them against a common enemy or threat. Fear is never the best motivation, but it can sometimes get people to think in different ways and lead to positive results. We should not be trying to create, stoke, or exploit fear, but when people are fearful, we should be willing to offer comfort and reassurance as we are able. Paul ministered for about three years in the city of Ephesus.
As was his practice, he began at the synagogue, then moved to another location when the opposition grew. He was also doing extraordinary miracles, which seemed to fit with some of the religious expectations in that city. Noting the success and attention Paul was receiving, others tried to copy his miracle-working exploits and found themselves quickly beaten up by a demon-possessed man. This encounter with spiritual powers caused fear across the community. The people recognized the serious nature of what Paul was talking about and turned to the power of Jesus all the more. “Many of those who believed now came and openly confessed their evil deeds” (Acts 19:18). A group of these new believers brought their books of sorcery and destroyed them, recognizing that they did not want this power in their homes and lives any longer. This was a breakthrough moment for the message Paul was preaching as it “spread widely and grew in power” (Acts 19:20). Paul had not caused this fear among the community, but by the power he was preaching and demonstrating, he was ready to point the people to Jesus as a source of greater power in their lives.
