JUDE: CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH PART 6

Speaker: Rich Gartman

Series:

Scripture:

Main Idea:

Introduction:

Good morning, everyone! I’m so glad to see you all here today. Let’s start with a little humor. A Sunday school teacher asked her class, "Why is it important to be quiet in church?" One bright little girl replied, "Because people are sleeping!" While I hope that’s not the case here today, our focus will be on staying spiritually awake and vigilant as we delve into Jude 1:17-23. These verses give us practical advice on how to remain steadfast in our faith amid challenges. We’ll explore three main points: staying the course, focusing on love, and reaching the lost.

Bible Verse:

17 But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. 22 And have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.

Point 1: Stay the Course

Explanation:

Jude encourages believers to build themselves up in their most holy faith and to pray in the Holy Spirit (v. 20). This involves nurturing our spiritual growth through studying Scripture, engaging in prayer, and being in fellowship with other believers. It’s about establishing a strong foundation so that we can withstand the trials and temptations that come our way.

Illustration:

Think of a bodybuilder who consistently works out to build muscle strength. This person follows a disciplined routine, ensuring they consume the right nutrients and engage in regular exercise. Similarly, building ourselves up in faith requires consistent spiritual discipline, feeding on the Word of God, and exercising our faith through prayer and obedience.

Application:

We need to commit to regular Bible study and prayer, making them integral parts of our daily lives. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can support and encourage you in your faith journey. By doing so, we can stay spiritually strong and resilient, ready to face the challenges of the world.

Bible Verse – Point 2:

21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.

Point 2: Focus on Love

Explanation:

Jude instructs us to keep ourselves in the love of God while waiting for the mercy of Jesus that leads to eternal life. This means actively living in God’s love, experiencing it deeply, and extending it to others. Our lives should be marked by a love that is patient, kind, and enduring.

Illustration:

Consider a garden that thrives under the care of a dedicated gardener. The gardener waters, prunes, and protects the plants, ensuring they grow strong and healthy. In the same way, keeping ourselves in God’s love involves nurturing our relationship with Him and allowing His love to flow through us to others.

Application:

Make a conscious effort to express God’s love in your daily interactions. Show kindness, patience, and forgiveness, even when it’s difficult. Remember that our ability to love comes from God’s love for us. Let’s be intentional about staying connected to His love through prayer and worship, allowing it to transform us and those around us.

Bible Verse – Point 3:

22 And have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.

Point 3: Reach the Lost

Explanation:

Jude calls us to have mercy on those who doubt, to save others by snatching them out of the fire, and to show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh. This is a call to evangelism and compassion. We are to reach out to those who are struggling in their faith, offering support and guidance, while also being cautious of the influence of sin.

Illustration:

Imagine a lifeguard who scans the beach, always ready to rescue those in danger of drowning. The lifeguard’s role is to save lives, often at great personal risk. Similarly, we are called to be spiritual lifeguards, ready to reach out to those who are in danger of falling away from faith, offering them the hope and truth of the gospel.

Application:

Be proactive in sharing your faith with others. Look for opportunities to support those who are doubting or struggling. Offer a listening ear, a kind word, and the truth of God’s Word. At the same time, be mindful of the influence of sin and maintain your own spiritual integrity. Let’s be bold in our efforts to save others, knowing that we are acting in God’s love and mercy.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Jude 1:17-23 provides us with a roadmap for staying strong in our faith. By staying the course through spiritual discipline, focusing on love in our relationships, and reaching out to the lost with compassion, we can navigate the challenges of this world and remain faithful to God. Let’s commit to living out these principles in our daily lives, trusting in God’s strength and guidance.

Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that guides and sustains us. Help us to build ourselves up in faith, to keep ourselves in Your love, and to reach out to others with compassion and truth. Strengthen us to remain steadfast in our faith, and use us to bring others to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.