The Fear of Man

Listen
Mar 22, 2026 by: Dale Thiele | Series: Genesis: Foundations for Life Scripture: Genesis 32:1-21

MESSAGE – Rev. Dr. Dale Thiele

Genesis: Foundations for Life

The Fear of Man 

  • The Source of Fear
  • Wrestling with Fear

            Remember God’s Presence

            Remember God’s Promises

            Humbly Steward What God has Given  

Questions for Further Study or Group Discussion:

  1. Read Genesis 33:1-21. What catches your attention from this passage? Why?
  2. Jacob has just had a peaceable parting with Laban. Why is he so afraid of Esau? What contributes to the “fear of man”?
  3. Consider verses 1-2. Why do the angels appear to Jacob? What is God doing? How does Psalm 34:7 apply to us? Matthew 28:20?
  4. Consider Jacob’s prayer in verses 9-12. What is remarkable about this prayer? Of what does Jacob say he is unworthy? The two terms steadfast love and faithfulness are important. Trace their use in the Bible. Start with Exodus 34:6, Psalm 86:15, and Psalm 100:5. Is there a connection with “grace and truth” in John 1:14?
  5. Why should prayerful trust in the Lord not lead to inactivity? What is trusting activity? 

Memory Verse of the Week:

Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. (ESV)