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This week the Christ Church Wednesday Bible Study Group completed the study of the book of Jude This study was a continuation of our study in 2 Peter warning against false teachers and false doctrine infiltrating the church.
Jude, is a powerful and urgent message that deserves our attention. Written by Jude, a half-brother of Jesus, this short letter is a fiery call to believers to contend for the faith against false teachers and heretics who were infiltrating the early church.
Jude's epistle serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of spiritual complacency and the importance of vigilance in maintaining our Christian convictions. Through vivid imagery and powerful warnings, he urges believers to stand firm against those who would undermine the truth of the gospel.
In this Bible study, we will delve into the key themes and messages of the Book of Jude. We will explore the nature of the false teachers, the warning signs of their destructive influence, and the practical steps believers can take to resist their teachings. By understanding the context and content of this epistle, we can gain valuable insights into how to navigate the challenges of our own spiritual journeys and remain steadfast in our faith.
For our study we used the book, Be Alert (2 Peter, 2 & 3 John, Jude): Beware of Religious Impostors
Jude describes characteristics of the apostates, reinforcing Peter’s words and, at the same time, adding information of his own. All that Jude wrote about the apostates in these verses may be summarized in three statements.
1. THEY REJECT DIVINE AUTHORITY (8–11)
2. THEY RESORT TO DELIBERATE HYPOCRISY (12–13, 16)
3. THEY RECEIVE THEIR DUE PENALTY (14–15)
THEY REJECT DIVINE AUTHORITY
Jude 1:8-11 NIV [8] In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. [9] But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” [10] Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct—as irrational animals do—will destroy them. [11] Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.
All authority comes from the throne of God, whether it is authority in the home, the church, or the state. Those who exercise authority must first be under authority, accountable to God. But the false teachers reject divine authority and set themselves up as their own authority.
They are dreamers living in a dream world of unreality and delusion. They believe the lie that Satan told Eve.
RESORT TO DELIBERATE HYPOCRISY
Jude 1:12-13, 16 NIV [12] These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead. [13] They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever.
[16] These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
The "love feasts" were communal meals held by early Christians, often accompanied by worship and fellowship. Sort of like our monthly fellowships. These gatherings were meant to be occasions of spiritual edification and unity.Jude warns that there were individuals within the early church who were infiltrating these gatherings and introducing sinful practices. These "blemishes" could have included anything from drunkenness and immorality to false teaching and division.
In essence, the phrase highlights the hypocrisy of those who claimed to be followers of Christ but were engaging in sinful behavior, particularly within the context of a religious gathering.
Shepherds who feed themselves without fear: They are leaders who are more concerned with their own personal gain than the spiritual well-being of their flock.
False shepherds use and abuse people in order to get what they want, and yet believe it or not, many people love it! Paul marveled at this when he wrote
3. THEY RECEIVE THEIR DUE PENALTY
Jude 1:14-15 NIV [14] Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones [15] to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”
When Enoch originally gave this message, it is possible that he was also referring to the coming judgment of the flood. He certainly lived in an ungodly age, and it seemed that sinners were getting away with their evil deeds. But Enoch made it clear that judgment was coming and that the ungodly would get what was coming to them!
The false teachers mocked this prophecy and argued that Jesus Christ would never come and God would never send judgment. But their very attitude was proof that the Word is true, for both our Lord and His apostles, as well as the prophets, said that scoffers and mockers would appear in the last days (2 Peter 3:1–4). Enoch gave his prophecy thousands of years ago! See how patient God has been with those who have rebelled against Him!
God Himself will come to judge the world. He will not send a famine or a flood, nor will He assign the task to an angel. He Himself will come. This shows the seriousness of the event, and also its finality. It will be a universal judgment. He will execute judgment “upon all”—none will escape. Just as the flood destroyed all who were outside the ark, and the fire and brimstone destroyed all in Sodom and Gomorrah except Lot and his wife and two daughters, so the last judgment will encompass all the ungodly.
The prophecy aligns with other biblical passages that describe the second coming of Jesus. This event is often associated with the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.
The "ten thousand saints" are likely a symbolic representation of a vast number of believers, both from the Old and New Testaments. This imagery emphasizes the divine support and authority behind Christ's return.
The purpose of Christ's return is to judge all people. While believers will be judged for their works, the emphasis in this passage is on the judgment of the ungodly. This judgment will involve both actions and words.
The term "ungodly" refers to those who reject God's authority and live in disobedience to His laws. Their deeds and words will be exposed and condemned.
This passage offers a powerful reminder of the final judgment and the accountability of all people before God. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the importance of living a godly life. The prophecy also serves as a source of hope for believers, as it points to the ultimate triumph of God's justice and the establishment of His kingdom.
Some people go out of their way to mock God and to slander His holy name. They go out of their way to defy Him. And they are treading on dangerous ground.
It’s a fearful thing when people go out of their way to mock God, ridicule God, and insult God. They think they can do this for as long as they want without any penalty. But ultimately, it will catch up with them. And the worst thing of all is they can cross the line and commit the unforgivable sin
At the end of his letter Jude said in effect that in spite of the presence of these false teachers we don’t have to stumble.
If the church is to oppose and defeat the false teachers, then all of us in the church must be strong and able to “stand against the wiles of the devil”. There is always the danger of stumbling, and a stumble is the first step toward a fall.
In this closing paragraph, Jude gives them four instructions to follow to stand firm and resist the false teachers
Remember God’s Word
Jude 1:17-19 NIV [17] But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
Jude calls upon his readers to recall the prophecies and teachings of the original apostles, who had warned about the rise of false teachers.
While our Lord had many disciples, He selected only a few to be apostles. The word means “one who is sent with a commission.”
Since Christ had committed “the faith” to His apostles, one of the main tests in the early church was “Is this what the apostles taught?”
Jude 1:3 NIV [3] Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.
Over the years, inspired letters were written by Paul, Peter, and John; we have these letters in our New Testament. We also have a record of some of their sermons in the book of Acts.
Whenever somebody offers you a “new revelation,” test it by what the apostles wrote and by what Jesus Christ taught. You will soon discover that the “revelation” is a lie.
This serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the original apostolic message.
The false teachers are described as "scoffers" who follow their own sinful desires. This highlights their disregard for spiritual authority and their pursuit of worldly pleasures. That explains why the apostates deny God’s truth: They do not want God to tell them how to live. They want to satisfy their own sinful desires, and the Word of God condemns their selfish way of life. When a person says, “I have intellectual problems with the Bible,” he probably has moral problems because the Bible contradicts what he is doing. The only sure way to know the truth of the Bible is by obeying it.
John 7:16-18 NIV [16] Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. [17] Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. [18] Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.
Before Satan can substitute his own lies, he must get rid of the truth of God’s Word.
If all we do is read and study the Bible, we will have a great deal of light but not much power. However, if we concentrate on prayer and ignore the Bible, we may be guilty of zeal without knowledge. We read the Word to grow in faith, then we use that faith to ask God for what we need and what His Word tells us we may have.
Romans 10:17 NIV Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
The false teachers are depicted as those who sow discord and division within the church. They are characterized as "worldly people," indicating their focus on earthly matters rather than spiritual concerns. Their lack of the Spirit implies a spiritual emptiness and a departure from the true teachings of Christ.
One of the tragedies in ministry today is that some of God’s people cannot discern between “showmanship” and the true ministry of the Spirit. There is so much religious showmanship these days that the saints are confused and deceived.
Their appeal is usually, “We have a deeper knowledge of the Word that your church doesn’t have! We have a better understanding of prophecy, or of the Christian life, than you do.” They offer a “higher quality” religion.
How can we discern between the “soulish” and the “spiritual”? By using the Word of God, which is able to divide soul and spirit and by paying close attention to the witness of the Spirit of God within a person indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 4:12 NIV [12] For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Romans 8:16 NIV [16] The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
A showman ministry magnifies man, but the Spirit glorifies Jesus Christ. When the Spirit is ministering through the Word, there is edification; but when the soul is merely “manufacturing” a ministry, there is entertainment or, at best, only intellectual education. It takes the Spirit of God to minister to our spirits and to make us more like Jesus Christ.
The next instruction to keep us from stumbling is
Build Your Christian Life
Jude 1:20-21 NIV [20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
The Christian life must never stand still; if it does, it will go backward. A house left to itself falls apart. The apostates are in the business of tearing down, but each Christian must be involved in building up—first, his own spiritual life and then wherever they go to fellowship their local church.
The foundation for our Christian life is our “most holy faith”
How do we build ourselves up “in your most holy faith”? By depending on what God has revealed to us in His Word. The Word of God and prayer go together in spiritual growth. If all we do is read and study the Bible, we will have a great deal of light but not much power. If we concentrate on prayer and ignore the Bible, we may be guilty of zeal without knowledge. We read the Word to grow in faith, then we use that faith to ask God for what we need and what His Word tells us we may have.
The power for building the Christian life comes from prayer: “praying in the Holy Ghost”
What does it mean to pray in the Spirit?
Praying in the Spirit refers to praying under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It's not about speaking in tongues or uttering unintelligible words. Instead, it's about allowing the Holy Spirit to inspire, guide, and empower your prayers.
When you pray in the Spirit, your prayers are aligned with God's will and purpose. The Holy Spirit guides you toward what is truly beneficial and meaningful.
Praying in the Spirit often involves a deeper level of spiritual connection and understanding. It can lead to a sense of peace, joy, and fulfillment.
The Holy Spirit can amplify your prayers, giving them a supernatural power that goes beyond your own human limitations.
The Holy Spirit can intercede for you, even when you don't know what to pray for or how to express yourself.
This “building process” in the Christian life involves the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and prayer. But these things, as precious as they are, can become somewhat routine; so Jude added another factor, abiding in God’s love. We must keep ourselves in God’s love. How do we do that?
This implies a conscious effort to stay connected to God and His love.
This doesn’t mean “keep yourself saved” because if we are saved we are always saved.
Jude 1:1 NIV Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
John 10:28-29 NIV [28] I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. [29] My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.
Romans 8:38-39 NIV [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
No this is about nurturing our relationship with Him through prayer, obedience, and trust.
Let’s look quickly at
John 15:9-10 NIV [9] “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. [10] If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
We grow in our love for God as we listen to His Word, obey it, and delight in doing what pleases Him. That is how we keep ourselves in God’s love. To love God is to love what He loves and hate what He hates!
John 14:15 NIV “If you love me, keep my commands.
This verse highlights the connection between love for Jesus and obedience to His teachings. It suggests that true love for God is manifested in a desire to follow His commands.
We build our Christian life on the foundation of faith and through the motivation of love. But we also need hope. Remember our definition for hope “confident expectation.”
Titus 2:11-14 NIV [11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
2 Peter 3:11-13 NIV [11] Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives [12] as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. [13] But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.
The coming of the Lord is a great encouragement to Christian living. It makes us want to keep pure and to avoid the things of the flesh and the world. Our hope in Christ is like an anchor that holds us in the storms of life, and like a helmet that protects us in the battles of life.
Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, [15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. [16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
So to remain in God’s love or to persevere in God’s love means to continue steadfastly in your relationship with God, despite challenges or difficulties. It implies a commitment to following God's teachings, trusting in His promises, and maintaining a love for Him.
The ultimate reward is that those who remain faithful to God and maintain a strong relationship with Him will have eternal life after death. This is the highest possible blessing and fulfillment of human existence.
The next instruction to keep us from stumbling is
To Exercise Spiritual Discernment
What should be the attitude of the growing Christian toward those who are being influenced by the false teachers? Jude says to exercise discernment and to act on and use that discernment to deal with those who are struggling with their faith or have been influenced by false teachers. Use that discernment to deal with them with mercy, rescue, or caution
Jude 1:22-23 NIV [22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
Mercy: Jude encourages believers to show compassion and understanding towards those who doubt. This suggests that even those who are struggling can be brought back into the fold through kindness and patience.
Even in the face of error, believers should strive to show mercy and understanding.
For those who are in danger of falling completely away from the faith, Jude suggests a more urgent approach: "snatching them from the fire." This implies a need for immediate action to prevent spiritual destruction.
Those who are in danger of spiritual destruction need immediate help. While compassion is essential, it must be balanced with discernment. Some situations may require a more direct and confrontational approach.
Jude also warns against showing mercy without discernment. He advises believers to approach certain individuals with caution, "hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh." This suggests that there are some situations where it is necessary to be firm and even confrontational, to protect the purity of the faith.
At the same time be careful never think you are beyond satanic influence. Even while serving the Lord and seeking to rescue one of His children, we can become defiled by those we want to help.
Galatians 6:1 NIV Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
Not every Christian is equipped to deal with false teachers or with those they have influenced and captured. It takes a good knowledge of the Word, a faithful walk with God, an understanding of Satan’s devices, and certainly the fullness of the Spirit of God. It also demands spiritual discernment.
It is much easier to instruct new Christians and keep them away from the false teachers than it is to snatch them out of the fire. It's more effective to provide guidance and support to new Christians from the beginning to help them develop a strong foundation in their faith, making them less susceptible to false teachings. Once someone has been influenced by false beliefs, it can be more challenging to correct their understanding.
The fourth and final instruction is
Commit Yourself to Jesus Christ
Jude 1:24-25 NIV[24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— [25] to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
I want to make clear that these instructions are to keep Christians from stumbling. If you are saved you are saved and one of God’s children. But we don’t want to stumble and go astray listening to what is not true.
What we have in these closing verses of Jude is benediction that we often hear at the end of a church service or church event. Let’s break it down.
"Now to him who is able to keep you from falling": This refers to God's power and faithfulness to protect believers from the temptations and heresies that threaten their faith. It suggests that salvation is not something we can achieve on our own but is a gift from God.
"and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with great joy": This emphasizes the ultimate goal of salvation: to be presented before God without blemish and to experience eternal joy. It suggests that the true fulfillment of life is found in a relationship with God.
"to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord": This acknowledges the role of Jesus Christ as the mediator of salvation. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus.
"be glory, majesty, power, and authority from now and forevermore": This is a doxology, a hymn of praise and adoration to God. It attributes to God all power, authority, and glory.
In essence, these verses offer a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the ultimate goal of salvation. They encourage believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, and to look forward to the eternal joy that awaits them.
Key points to consider:
God's sovereignty: God is ultimately in control and has the power to preserve believers.
The goal of salvation: The ultimate goal of salvation is to be presented before God without blemish and to experience eternal joy.
The role of Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the mediator of salvation.
The importance of praise: We should praise and qadore God for his power, mercy, and love.
"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NIV)
1. THEY REJECT DIVINE AUTHORITY (8–11)
2. THEY RESORT TO DELIBERATE HYPOCRISY (12–13, 16)
3. THEY RECEIVE THEIR DUE PENALTY (14–15)
THEY REJECT DIVINE AUTHORITY
Jude 1:8-11 NIV [8] In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. [9] But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” [10] Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct—as irrational animals do—will destroy them. [11] Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.
All authority comes from the throne of God, whether it is authority in the home, the church, or the state. Those who exercise authority must first be under authority, accountable to God. But the false teachers reject divine authority and set themselves up as their own authority.
They are dreamers living in a dream world of unreality and delusion. They believe the lie that Satan told Eve.
RESORT TO DELIBERATE HYPOCRISY
Jude 1:12-13, 16 NIV [12] These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm—shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—twice dead. [13] They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever.
[16] These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
The "love feasts" were communal meals held by early Christians, often accompanied by worship and fellowship. Sort of like our monthly fellowships. These gatherings were meant to be occasions of spiritual edification and unity.Jude warns that there were individuals within the early church who were infiltrating these gatherings and introducing sinful practices. These "blemishes" could have included anything from drunkenness and immorality to false teaching and division.
In essence, the phrase highlights the hypocrisy of those who claimed to be followers of Christ but were engaging in sinful behavior, particularly within the context of a religious gathering.
Shepherds who feed themselves without fear: They are leaders who are more concerned with their own personal gain than the spiritual well-being of their flock.
False shepherds use and abuse people in order to get what they want, and yet believe it or not, many people love it! Paul marveled at this when he wrote
3. THEY RECEIVE THEIR DUE PENALTY
Jude 1:14-15 NIV [14] Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones [15] to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”
When Enoch originally gave this message, it is possible that he was also referring to the coming judgment of the flood. He certainly lived in an ungodly age, and it seemed that sinners were getting away with their evil deeds. But Enoch made it clear that judgment was coming and that the ungodly would get what was coming to them!
The false teachers mocked this prophecy and argued that Jesus Christ would never come and God would never send judgment. But their very attitude was proof that the Word is true, for both our Lord and His apostles, as well as the prophets, said that scoffers and mockers would appear in the last days (2 Peter 3:1–4). Enoch gave his prophecy thousands of years ago! See how patient God has been with those who have rebelled against Him!
God Himself will come to judge the world. He will not send a famine or a flood, nor will He assign the task to an angel. He Himself will come. This shows the seriousness of the event, and also its finality. It will be a universal judgment. He will execute judgment “upon all”—none will escape. Just as the flood destroyed all who were outside the ark, and the fire and brimstone destroyed all in Sodom and Gomorrah except Lot and his wife and two daughters, so the last judgment will encompass all the ungodly.
The prophecy aligns with other biblical passages that describe the second coming of Jesus. This event is often associated with the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.
The "ten thousand saints" are likely a symbolic representation of a vast number of believers, both from the Old and New Testaments. This imagery emphasizes the divine support and authority behind Christ's return.
The purpose of Christ's return is to judge all people. While believers will be judged for their works, the emphasis in this passage is on the judgment of the ungodly. This judgment will involve both actions and words.
The term "ungodly" refers to those who reject God's authority and live in disobedience to His laws. Their deeds and words will be exposed and condemned.
This passage offers a powerful reminder of the final judgment and the accountability of all people before God. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the importance of living a godly life. The prophecy also serves as a source of hope for believers, as it points to the ultimate triumph of God's justice and the establishment of His kingdom.
Some people go out of their way to mock God and to slander His holy name. They go out of their way to defy Him. And they are treading on dangerous ground.
It’s a fearful thing when people go out of their way to mock God, ridicule God, and insult God. They think they can do this for as long as they want without any penalty. But ultimately, it will catch up with them. And the worst thing of all is they can cross the line and commit the unforgivable sin
At the end of his letter Jude said in effect that in spite of the presence of these false teachers we don’t have to stumble.
If the church is to oppose and defeat the false teachers, then all of us in the church must be strong and able to “stand against the wiles of the devil”. There is always the danger of stumbling, and a stumble is the first step toward a fall.
In this closing paragraph, Jude gives them four instructions to follow to stand firm and resist the false teachers
- Remember God’s Word
- Build Your Christian Life
- Exercise Spiritual Discernment
- Commit Yourself to Jesus Christ
Remember God’s Word
Jude 1:17-19 NIV [17] But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. [18] They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” [19] These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
Jude calls upon his readers to recall the prophecies and teachings of the original apostles, who had warned about the rise of false teachers.
While our Lord had many disciples, He selected only a few to be apostles. The word means “one who is sent with a commission.”
Since Christ had committed “the faith” to His apostles, one of the main tests in the early church was “Is this what the apostles taught?”
Jude 1:3 NIV [3] Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.
Over the years, inspired letters were written by Paul, Peter, and John; we have these letters in our New Testament. We also have a record of some of their sermons in the book of Acts.
Whenever somebody offers you a “new revelation,” test it by what the apostles wrote and by what Jesus Christ taught. You will soon discover that the “revelation” is a lie.
This serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the original apostolic message.
The false teachers are described as "scoffers" who follow their own sinful desires. This highlights their disregard for spiritual authority and their pursuit of worldly pleasures. That explains why the apostates deny God’s truth: They do not want God to tell them how to live. They want to satisfy their own sinful desires, and the Word of God condemns their selfish way of life. When a person says, “I have intellectual problems with the Bible,” he probably has moral problems because the Bible contradicts what he is doing. The only sure way to know the truth of the Bible is by obeying it.
John 7:16-18 NIV [16] Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. [17] Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. [18] Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.
Before Satan can substitute his own lies, he must get rid of the truth of God’s Word.
If all we do is read and study the Bible, we will have a great deal of light but not much power. However, if we concentrate on prayer and ignore the Bible, we may be guilty of zeal without knowledge. We read the Word to grow in faith, then we use that faith to ask God for what we need and what His Word tells us we may have.
Romans 10:17 NIV Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
The false teachers are depicted as those who sow discord and division within the church. They are characterized as "worldly people," indicating their focus on earthly matters rather than spiritual concerns. Their lack of the Spirit implies a spiritual emptiness and a departure from the true teachings of Christ.
One of the tragedies in ministry today is that some of God’s people cannot discern between “showmanship” and the true ministry of the Spirit. There is so much religious showmanship these days that the saints are confused and deceived.
Their appeal is usually, “We have a deeper knowledge of the Word that your church doesn’t have! We have a better understanding of prophecy, or of the Christian life, than you do.” They offer a “higher quality” religion.
How can we discern between the “soulish” and the “spiritual”? By using the Word of God, which is able to divide soul and spirit and by paying close attention to the witness of the Spirit of God within a person indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 4:12 NIV [12] For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Romans 8:16 NIV [16] The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.
A showman ministry magnifies man, but the Spirit glorifies Jesus Christ. When the Spirit is ministering through the Word, there is edification; but when the soul is merely “manufacturing” a ministry, there is entertainment or, at best, only intellectual education. It takes the Spirit of God to minister to our spirits and to make us more like Jesus Christ.
The next instruction to keep us from stumbling is
Build Your Christian Life
Jude 1:20-21 NIV [20] But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
The Christian life must never stand still; if it does, it will go backward. A house left to itself falls apart. The apostates are in the business of tearing down, but each Christian must be involved in building up—first, his own spiritual life and then wherever they go to fellowship their local church.
The foundation for our Christian life is our “most holy faith”
How do we build ourselves up “in your most holy faith”? By depending on what God has revealed to us in His Word. The Word of God and prayer go together in spiritual growth. If all we do is read and study the Bible, we will have a great deal of light but not much power. If we concentrate on prayer and ignore the Bible, we may be guilty of zeal without knowledge. We read the Word to grow in faith, then we use that faith to ask God for what we need and what His Word tells us we may have.
The power for building the Christian life comes from prayer: “praying in the Holy Ghost”
What does it mean to pray in the Spirit?
Praying in the Spirit refers to praying under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It's not about speaking in tongues or uttering unintelligible words. Instead, it's about allowing the Holy Spirit to inspire, guide, and empower your prayers.
When you pray in the Spirit, your prayers are aligned with God's will and purpose. The Holy Spirit guides you toward what is truly beneficial and meaningful.
Praying in the Spirit often involves a deeper level of spiritual connection and understanding. It can lead to a sense of peace, joy, and fulfillment.
The Holy Spirit can amplify your prayers, giving them a supernatural power that goes beyond your own human limitations.
The Holy Spirit can intercede for you, even when you don't know what to pray for or how to express yourself.
This “building process” in the Christian life involves the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and prayer. But these things, as precious as they are, can become somewhat routine; so Jude added another factor, abiding in God’s love. We must keep ourselves in God’s love. How do we do that?
This implies a conscious effort to stay connected to God and His love.
This doesn’t mean “keep yourself saved” because if we are saved we are always saved.
Jude 1:1 NIV Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
John 10:28-29 NIV [28] I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. [29] My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.
Romans 8:38-39 NIV [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
No this is about nurturing our relationship with Him through prayer, obedience, and trust.
Let’s look quickly at
John 15:9-10 NIV [9] “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. [10] If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
We grow in our love for God as we listen to His Word, obey it, and delight in doing what pleases Him. That is how we keep ourselves in God’s love. To love God is to love what He loves and hate what He hates!
John 14:15 NIV “If you love me, keep my commands.
This verse highlights the connection between love for Jesus and obedience to His teachings. It suggests that true love for God is manifested in a desire to follow His commands.
We build our Christian life on the foundation of faith and through the motivation of love. But we also need hope. Remember our definition for hope “confident expectation.”
Titus 2:11-14 NIV [11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
2 Peter 3:11-13 NIV [11] Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives [12] as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. [13] But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.
The coming of the Lord is a great encouragement to Christian living. It makes us want to keep pure and to avoid the things of the flesh and the world. Our hope in Christ is like an anchor that holds us in the storms of life, and like a helmet that protects us in the battles of life.
Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. [14] Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, [15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. [16] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. [17] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
So to remain in God’s love or to persevere in God’s love means to continue steadfastly in your relationship with God, despite challenges or difficulties. It implies a commitment to following God's teachings, trusting in His promises, and maintaining a love for Him.
The ultimate reward is that those who remain faithful to God and maintain a strong relationship with Him will have eternal life after death. This is the highest possible blessing and fulfillment of human existence.
The next instruction to keep us from stumbling is
To Exercise Spiritual Discernment
What should be the attitude of the growing Christian toward those who are being influenced by the false teachers? Jude says to exercise discernment and to act on and use that discernment to deal with those who are struggling with their faith or have been influenced by false teachers. Use that discernment to deal with them with mercy, rescue, or caution
Jude 1:22-23 NIV [22] Be merciful to those who doubt; [23] save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
Mercy: Jude encourages believers to show compassion and understanding towards those who doubt. This suggests that even those who are struggling can be brought back into the fold through kindness and patience.
Even in the face of error, believers should strive to show mercy and understanding.
For those who are in danger of falling completely away from the faith, Jude suggests a more urgent approach: "snatching them from the fire." This implies a need for immediate action to prevent spiritual destruction.
Those who are in danger of spiritual destruction need immediate help. While compassion is essential, it must be balanced with discernment. Some situations may require a more direct and confrontational approach.
Jude also warns against showing mercy without discernment. He advises believers to approach certain individuals with caution, "hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh." This suggests that there are some situations where it is necessary to be firm and even confrontational, to protect the purity of the faith.
At the same time be careful never think you are beyond satanic influence. Even while serving the Lord and seeking to rescue one of His children, we can become defiled by those we want to help.
Galatians 6:1 NIV Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
Not every Christian is equipped to deal with false teachers or with those they have influenced and captured. It takes a good knowledge of the Word, a faithful walk with God, an understanding of Satan’s devices, and certainly the fullness of the Spirit of God. It also demands spiritual discernment.
It is much easier to instruct new Christians and keep them away from the false teachers than it is to snatch them out of the fire. It's more effective to provide guidance and support to new Christians from the beginning to help them develop a strong foundation in their faith, making them less susceptible to false teachings. Once someone has been influenced by false beliefs, it can be more challenging to correct their understanding.
The fourth and final instruction is
Commit Yourself to Jesus Christ
Jude 1:24-25 NIV[24] To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— [25] to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
I want to make clear that these instructions are to keep Christians from stumbling. If you are saved you are saved and one of God’s children. But we don’t want to stumble and go astray listening to what is not true.
What we have in these closing verses of Jude is benediction that we often hear at the end of a church service or church event. Let’s break it down.
"Now to him who is able to keep you from falling": This refers to God's power and faithfulness to protect believers from the temptations and heresies that threaten their faith. It suggests that salvation is not something we can achieve on our own but is a gift from God.
"and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with great joy": This emphasizes the ultimate goal of salvation: to be presented before God without blemish and to experience eternal joy. It suggests that the true fulfillment of life is found in a relationship with God.
"to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord": This acknowledges the role of Jesus Christ as the mediator of salvation. It emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus.
"be glory, majesty, power, and authority from now and forevermore": This is a doxology, a hymn of praise and adoration to God. It attributes to God all power, authority, and glory.
In essence, these verses offer a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the ultimate goal of salvation. They encourage believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, and to look forward to the eternal joy that awaits them.
Key points to consider:
God's sovereignty: God is ultimately in control and has the power to preserve believers.
The goal of salvation: The ultimate goal of salvation is to be presented before God without blemish and to experience eternal joy.
The role of Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the mediator of salvation.
The importance of praise: We should praise and qadore God for his power, mercy, and love.
"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NIV)
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