JUDE: CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH PART 3

Speaker: Rich Gartman

Series: JUDE: CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH

Scripture:

Main Idea:

Intro

In the short yet powerful letter of Jude, we find a compelling call to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted to us. Jude draws upon historical examples to illustrate God's justice and the consequences of rejecting His truth. Today, we focus on verses 5-7, where Jude reminds us of three significant events from history that teach us invaluable lessons about faithfulness and accountability.

Bible Verse

5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day— 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

Point #1

Bible Verse – Point 1

5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day— 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

Explanation – Point 1

1. Disobedience thru Unbelief

2. Rebellion - Elevation of Position - coup d'état

3. Debauchery ‌- The results of the previous, not the cause

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Remembering God's Judgment (Verses 5-7)

Jude begins by recalling historical judgments:

The Israelites, whom God delivered from Egypt with mighty signs and wonders, yet many of whom later perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience and unbelief.

The angels who rebelled against God’s authority, abandoning their proper dwelling, and are now kept in eternal chains in darkness awaiting the final judgment.

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, known for their rampant immorality and perversion, which were destroyed by fire from heaven as a warning of God’s righteous judgment.

Explanation: These events underscore God’s holiness, justice, and faithfulness to His word. Despite His deliverance and mercy, God does not tolerate persistent unbelief and rebellion.

Illustration – Point 1

Elisabeth Elliot, at Urbana 76, told of her brother Thomas Howard. Their mother let him play with paper bags she’d saved if he put them away afterwards. One day she walked into the kitchen to find them strewn all over the floor. Tom was out at the piano with his father singing hymns. When confronted, he protested, “But Mom, I want to sing.” His father stated, “It’s no good singing God’s praise if you’re disobedient.”

Application – Point 1

As believers, we must heed these historical warnings. We are called not only to receive God's grace but also to live in obedience and faithfulness to His commands. Let us examine our hearts and lives, ensuring that we are walking in alignment with God's truth and not drifting towards compromise or unbelief.

Bible Verse – Point 2

5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day— 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

Point #2

Explanation – Point 2

Faithfulness amidst Trials: Like the Israelites, we may face trials and temptations that test our faith. It is crucial to remain steadfast, trusting in God's promises and resisting the lure of disobedience.

Upholding God's Truth: In a world that often rejects or distorts God's truth, we are called to boldly proclaim and defend the gospel. Just as Jude warned against false teachings, we must safeguard the integrity of our faith and resist compromising with worldly ideologies.

Living with Eternal Perspective: The fate of the angels and the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah remind us of the reality of eternal judgment. As we contend for the faith, let us remember that our choices have eternal significance. We should strive to live in a manner that hono

Illustration – Point 2

Application – Point 2

Conclusion

Jude's message resonates powerfully today as we navigate challenges to our faith and encounter various forms of opposition. Let us take to heart the lessons from Jude 5-7:

Embrace God’s deliverance and grace, but do not take His mercy for granted.Stand firm in obedience and faithfulness, resisting the allure of sin and disobedience.Proclaim and defend the truth of God’s Word amidst cultural shifts and opposition.

May God grant us wisdom and courage to contend for the faith with boldness and humility, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.