Text: 1 John 4:18 - "There is no fear in love.

But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with
punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."

Introduction

A. The pervasiveness of fear in our lives

B. The promise of perfect love to cast out fear

C. Preview of the three implied truths in 1 John 4:18

I. Implied Truth #1: Fear Has to Do with Punishment

A. The source of fear in our lives

B. The consequences of fear in our lives

C. How punishment fuels our fear

II. Implied Truth #2: Perfect Love Drives Out Fear

A. The nature of perfect love

B. The power of perfect love to overcome fear

C. The role of perfect love in our lives

III. Implied Truth #3: The One Who Fears Is Not Made Perfect in Love

A. The contrast between fear and love

B. The impact of fear on our relationship with God

C. The call to trust in God's perfect love

Implied Truth #1: Fear Has to Do with Punishment

 Fear is a natural human response to the prospect of punishment or harm.

 Punishment can be physical, emotional, or spiritual in nature.
 Fear can lead to anxiety, worry, and avoidance behaviors.
 Fear can hinder our ability to experience joy, peace, and freedom.

Implied Truth #2: Perfect Love Drives Out Fear

 Perfect love is God's love, which is unconditional, sacrificial, and infinite.

 Perfect love is the antidote to fear because it assures us of God's care, protection, and provision.
 Perfect love empowers us to face our fears with courage, faith, and hope.
  Perfect love transforms us from fearful to faithful.

Implied Truth #3: The One Who Fears Is Not Made Perfect in Love

 Fear and love are mutually exclusive emotions that cannot coexist.
 Fear indicates a lack of trust in God's love and character.
 Love is the key to spiritual maturity and wholeness.
 The journey towards perfect love involves growing in faith, surrender, and obedience.