Faith journeys are never simply intellectual exercises.
If Jesus rose from the dead, then you have to accept all he said.
In the original language, 'Fear the Lord' doesn't mean be afraid. It means sustaining a joyful, astonished awe, and wonder before Him.
The gospel has two parts. It has the part that says you're a sinner, and it has the part that says you're loved and accepted.
The infallible test of spiritual integrity, Jesus says, is your private prayer life.
If you have a small view of your sin, God's grace will be small to you.