Human nature seems to have us fear what we don't know. Then after something is feared, then human nature has most, quite comfortable with this. The unknown is not fearful, just unknown. [BornToBeAmerican]
Nice psychologizing, BornToBeAmerican. I could imagine the following convo had you been around to hear Jesus 2,000 years ago:
Jesus: "I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him." (Luke 12:4-5)
Then, you respond: "You know, Jesus, human nature seems to have us fear what we don't know. Then after something is feared, then human nature has most, quite comfortable with this. The unknown is not fearful, just unknown."
Conversation bystander: "BornToBe...do you think Jesus, who shared our human nature, had enough knowledge to have us fear what we haven't experienced? And why do we have to know or experience something (like a mountain) to attach any fear to it -- when Jesus says just the opposite?"
And Tamar1973, any false pied pipers leading folks astray -- and away from the One who has the power to throw people into hell -- is based upon more of the reality of hell than just some "they're a cult mantra."
Indeed, our "fear" is on behalf of those who are placing their eternal spiritual lives at risk.