What would make you afraid to show your faith? To lose one's place in the synagogue was a huge loss for someone in Jesus' day. While we rightfully are disgusted with the lack of courage and integrity by those mentioned in these verses, we need to ask ourselves how often have we failed to stand up for Jesus when the stakes were even lower. The real issue with fear and faith is our confidence in what we believe. If we truly believe in Jesus, how could we give him up? If we truly want to honor God, then how could the approval of mere mortal people become more important? God calls us to love him without a rival. Anything that would interfere with our honoring God becomes our idol, even if it is the fear of rejection or the desire for popularity.