Greeting
1:1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James,
To those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
2 May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
Judgment on False Teachers
3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
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.
8 Yet in like manner these people also, relying on their dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones. 9 But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, was disputing about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you.” 10 But these people blaspheme all that they do not understand, and they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, understand instinctively. 11 Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam’s error and perished in Korah’s rebellion. 12 These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; 13 wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.
14 It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, 15 to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.
A Call to Persevere
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.
Doxology
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. (ESV)
Jude is a little gem of a letter tucked within this Grand Canyon of our Bible. It offers incredible insight regarding false professors of our faith, serving as tips to guard us against being dissuaded from the Truth. It also offers incredible encouragement to sustain and preserve our own declarations of faith.
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.
I love verse 22. Often, (even at our Apologetics night I detected this kind of attitude from some people, sad to say) we may be tempted to condescend to others because of how indignantly ignorant they are, whether knowingly or not. It is so important, in order for us to maintain a heart of gentleness, love, and respect, that we remember that it is GOD Who opened our eyes, and not anything we ourselves chose or educated ourselves about. GOD removed the blinders. So when people slam the faith, pick at the reliability and authenticity of God’s Word, or pick it over to extract from It what accomodates their sin and their lifestyle, we must get on our knees and PRAY. PRAY that the love of Christ would penetrate their hearts and that God would open their eyes to His Truth.
With others, we are to, “snatch them out of the fire.” This is a rad word for us, TOO, because it is a reminding call that we are to look out for one another. It’s a lot easier to sit back and let someone make the choices they’re making, waiting for life to teach the lesson, making concession for the popular sentiment, “Life’s gonna have to teach ‘im the HARD way…” It somehow in our minds exonerates us of our involvement. But it DOESN’T. In that same gentle, respectful love, we are to come alongside one another and have each other’s back. This is not easy. But if we want to help protect one another so that we do not burn up like kindling held over a fire, then we’d better stretch ourselves and step outside ourselves.
This faith we have been called to? This is EXCITING and marvelous stuff… Praise God for His Holy Spirit Who lives within those of us who are His, for Jesus Christ Who is the Capstone of our faith, and for His Word that speaks to every circumstance we could possibly encounter in life, empowering us and directing us along the path that leads us Home.
I also noticed the phrase “snatch them out of the fire”. Great comment on that! :D
Awesome! I am going to work on loving unbelievers more and having more compassion for them because I often fall into the sin of slandering them.
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen
Talk about two verses that get me pumped up to worship Jesus Christ forever and ever in heaven! First off, verse 24 tells us that God is able to keep us from falling into sin, and that we will be presented before God holy and righteous, not because of anything on our own, but because of Christ’s righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21). I think these two verses go along very well with Pastor Bobby’s awesome and convicting sermon this weekend. I know that I need to be taking Christ’s death more seriously, and I need to dwell on His sacrifice for me everyday! Pastor Bobby talked about heaven a little, and how we will be praising God and worshiping Him forever. I love how Jude goes off in verse 25 and is just crying out praises to God and to Jesus Christ. This passage has fired me up this lovely Sunday morning, and I am SO excited to see Jesus and sing praises with “myriads and myriads and thousands of thousands” of angels (Revelation 5:11, as well as an innumerable amount of Christians! Come get me Lord Jesus!!! I want to worship You in heaven RIGHT NOW! MARANATHA!
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
The book of Jude was intended to be about the commonality of salvation, but Jude had to change his focus because of the urgent need to contend for the truth of the Christian faith. Verse 4 is a stern warning for the Christians that false teachers have wormed their way into their congregation. Look at the words Jude uses to describe the false teachers…ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. Yikes! Just as these 1st century Christians had to be on the look out for false teachers in their midst, so do we. God is not surprised that there are wolves in sheep’s clothing among us, deviously slipping into our church by acting like Christians and operating subversively, so we shouldn’t be either! We have got to be sure not to fall prey to those who twist and distort God’s grace, especially his free forgiveness of sin. When people use the excuse, “God will forgive me no matter what I do, so it’s ok if I sin,” then they are showing they are just like the false teachers Jude is talking about. We must be rooted and grounded in the truth that God HATES sin, and be sure to have nothing to do with false teachers!
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
Unfortunately, such false teachings are prevalent today. Too many people use God’s grace as a license to sin. They want a ticket to heaven, but they also want to live for themselves. You can’t live for yourself and really have Jesus as your Lord. By definition he is now the boss of our lives if we have transfered our trust to Him. As 2 Corinthians 5:15 puts it “he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. Instead God’s grace should be the motivation and driving force that empowers us to live for Him. When I reflect on God’s grace and love in dying for me, a sinner who was utterly helpless to save myself (Romans 5:6-8) this should motivate me to say NO to sin, not yes.
3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints
Jude! the 2nd last book of the Bible!
salvation is common. we all have in common that our salvation is founded in Christ. We trust in Christ and that we have gave God our lives to obey his commands! Sure our testimonies might be different, but how we got saved that’s what we have in common.
like :)
thanks Katie!!!
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.
This was an awesome reminder that Christ has been here since the very beginning and that He will always be here for me today. He saw the Earth being created, He saw Cain and Able, saw Moses, and saw David come to power. That would be SO sad to see that God was going to send you down to this corrupt Earth to save these tiny ants! Since Jesus is God though, He had the same love as His father. He saved me from my sins and gave me a hope that I now look forward to! I’m going to tell others this week about it, or I will die trying! MARANATHA! :D
Great comment!
1:1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, i need to work on serving with a good attitude
ELLO… I read
I like verse 19,”It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.”
I like this verse because it tells why so many people are divided against each other. It is sin and worldly people who are devoid of the Spirit who cheat each other and kill each other. They are only worried about themselves and because of it we are a divided world from GOD. I need to make sure and pray that I do not act like this kind of person. I need to act as I am supposed to and not give CHRISTians a bad name by acting like the rest of the world does.
CYA
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.
This verse pretty much screamed God is coming back!!! It says in the last times there will be people following their ungodly passions, and start divisions, and are worldly. There are SO many peoples names i could put to match this verse! God is calling me and all christians to hurry and tell as many people about the truth before its to late. Just think about everyone at school, some even at church, going to hell. It truly saddens my heart to think of their punishment. We cant be afraid to share the gospel, because one day when their in hell they will wonder why you didnt tell them. And if your to scared to read your bible, and it will teach you what to say. Even better, use the method T.A.N!!!!! :D
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,
This is a great verse. Here we see a promise that is very, very comforting. GOD is able to absolve us of our sins and make us blameless. I know that this is old news for a lot of us, but it is amazing that GOD would love us so much even though we sin. I need to remember what GOD has done for me every day.
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.
I really like this verse because it shows us ow powerful the Lord is. He has been here forever and is still here for me know. This verse really shows me that he is not only a loving God but a just God. This verse makes me want to stay strong for Jesus Christ and live for him fully!
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,
What really stood out to me in this verse were the words “building yourselves up in the most holy faith” How do we build ourselves up? Through the word and obedience to the word. It is through reading Gods word that our faith is built up and it is being obedient to that word that our faith is made stronger, and this is how we will not be sucked into the lies of the false teachers. And we also need to be praying in and through the holy spirit because it is through the spirit that we communicate with the Lord. When we pray in the spirit we have the same mind and heart of God. And this will result in affective an productive prayers. So I pray that we will constantly be building our selves up in the faith through his word and that we know that is only by and through his spirit that we live godly lives before a Holy God and we will be protected from the false hoods and lies that evil one tries to throw at us.
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
I have come to realize that there are two things that characterize false teachers; unbiblical teaching (2Tim. 4:3-4) and an ungodly life style. It can be a combination of both or one or the other, but these two traits are usually the calling cards of those that desire to further themselves over honoring God. If the teaching is unbiblical than how can it have authority? God’s word is what posses the authority…not a teachers experiences or intelligence. Also, if a teacher is false then it will show in his or her life. The desires of this world will ultimately overcome their desire to follow God (or their desire to keep the appearance of following God) because of the lack of the Holy Spirit in their lives. It is crucial that we do not become enslaved to false teaching but instead be on the look out; holding on to what is good and throwing away what is evil (Rom.12:9).
16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.
I defiantly have a whining problem sometimes, and while I try to check it, sometimes I don’t even think about it, complaints just sorta jump out and it’s not until I’m praying that night, reviewing my day, that I realize what I was doing. I think sometimes we do it out of habit, but this verse really reminds me of how whining is not the Christian thing to do is. Come to think of it I don’t think Jesus ever whined, so if I’m living my life for him, then I shouldn’t be complaining either.
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.
Sometimes I judge non-Christians. Like, if I’m in class or something and a kid makes a inappropriate joke, some days thoughts like “psshha, they obviously don’t know Jesus” will cross my mind. But here it says to have mercy on them, to always be engaged in trying to bring them to Christ instead of just thinking “oh, they aren’t Christian.” Instead, I should think “I wonder if I could catch them as they walk out and ask them what they are doing for Easter.” (yep, little plug for today’s sermon, it was awesome)
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
This is just an amazing scripture. It goes along with the talk we had today about really worshiping and parsing the Lord always and in everything we do, to make it our lives.
I like your thoughts on verse 22! I do that too (in fact I think we’ve talked to each other about some people). I pray that God will give us the strength to control our thoughts and have mercy on people instead of judging them. I will also pray that the Holy Spirit will fill you with self control against whining :)
mmm, great point!i can relate to you on what you said about verse 22!
Great comment! (: I can totally relate to you!
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
YES praise to Jesus Christ my king who suffered on the cross for my sins!! He reigns on high over us, and one day we will see his face!! This verse totally reminds me of Bobby’s AND Lucas’ sermon this weekend!! JESUS needs to be our center and focus because of what he has done for us. I need to take that gospel message and spread it!! :D
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.
What a great couple of verses! God calls us to keep our faith in Him and for that He promises us eternity to spend with Him! I am excited to love God with all of myself because without Him we would be nothing. These verses have spurred me to keep up my prayer and meditation like a newborn baby who needs nourishment!!!
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,
This is a good passage because it reminds me to pray. Prayer is important and I need ask God for things, and also to praise him.
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
Surrounding yourself with Christians on your inner circle is important so that you can influence the non-believers in the outside circle. In our high schools today it seems like at least 80% or more of teenagers are in love with worldly, ungodly passions. We need to be shining as Christians lights and not try so hard to fit in when we were born to stand out for Christ. Eternal life in Heaven will be incomparable to life here on earth. There are so many things which I want to ask Jesus when I get to heaven about certain things in people’s lives on earth, but I realize that I may never get to ask those questions because when I get there none of that stuff will even matter. I will be too obsessed with worshipping him and silenced by his overwhelming beauty…I can only imagine :) I will praying that this week God gives me opportunities (and I have the courage to take them) to share with other people about Jesus dying for their sins on the cross and resurrecting. Easter is my favorite holiday (yes, more than Christmas) and I want to explain to non-believers why.
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.
It’s easy to forget when sharing the gospel with someone that I deserve the same punishment as them. I get caught up in their selfishness and refusal to see their need to the Savior. However, I forget that only by God’s grace were my eyes open to the truth of the gospel! I need to remember to show compassion on those who have yet to have their eyes opened to the truth. Just as God showed me mercy, I need to make sure I am showing compassion to the unrepentant sinner, realizing that they are destined for the fires of hell.
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.
This book scared me a little! When it was talking about “undergoing punishment of eternal fire”, I got chills. I think I need that every once in a while though because I need to realize how AWFUL it would be to spend ETERNITY in flames!! I want to be with Jesus! So verses 20 and 21 reminds me of the “New Moon” sermon on the iTunes podcasts that I listened to a few days ago. My days need to be spent being excited for the coming of Christ and I need to have my eyes on him all the time. I pray that this week, I will serve others whole heartedly and that I will not have the “woe is me” attitude, but bring God’s love into the place I am in that moment
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,
As pastor Lucas preached this morning, we are utterly helpless. We have absolutely nothing to do with our salvation; it is all God. Even the faith needed to receive Jesus Christ is given by Him. And, likewise, Christians are “kept standing” / following God only by God’s power and will. The journey lasts our whole life, and on our own we would surely stumble and fall. It is only by God’s mercy and grace that we can/will do anything right/good. In a sense, this verse is humbling, and leaves no room for confidence in self; it tells me that I am in the hands of God, and He can do what He wants with me. If I finish the race strong, I know that it will be only by the strength that HE has given me. Yet it is also comforting to know that He, my creator and savior, is leading. All I have to do is follow. It is that simple, and it is that hard. But He is able, able to keep me running for Him in the right direction, and able to bring me into glory in the end! Praise Jesus Christ!
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.
Jude is a wonderful little book that is often overlooked just because it’s small and at the end of the Bible I guess. I love these verses that teach me to stay in the love of God and wait for Jesus’ return. I can’t wait til’ he comes back, but until then I should be patient, and always ready for his return. While I am waiting, I need to “snatch others out of the fire” and bring them to Jesus. I am trying to work on evangelizing more, and am very excited for the opportune time to evangelize these two weeks preceding Easter! I need to love non-Christians and be bolder in sharing my faith. I pray God will give me success and help to say the right things. Everything I do should be for His glory<3
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,
This is such an important verse because prayer is so important. Without prayer how can we talk to our God? We need to build up ourselves strongly in the Lord and strengthen our faith in Him.
22 And have mercy on those who doubt;
God is so merciful and forgives us after we doubt him and sin. God will always be there for us no matter what so in return I need to work on always being here for Him, ready for Him to call me to serve Him in my everyday life.
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,
Bad company corrupts good character. It says that those bad people cause division, because they lack the Spirit. As Christians, we are set apart from them, and we should be building each other up. We’ve got to be praying for each other and encouraging one another! It’s really important that we do that.
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.
Like a lot of others have already said, we as Christians should not be judgemental about non-christians and how they act. I need to be sure that thoughts dont cross my mind that put other people down. I was leading a bible study with my parents and i discussed a point about how Christians should bear fruit. We started questioning things like “well, some people claim to have become a christian but they have never ever shown that they have by bearing any fruit whatsoever.” Though that may seem like a fishy example, i am not one to judge. i came to the conclusion that i as a Christian should pray for those who are like that, and non christians. I also need to be living a lifestyle that can come across as a great example for Christ. Back then, people like Abraham were called to a duty that was much like this verse. I recall when Abraham prayed the God about finding at least 10 righteous people in Soddom and Gomorah…which never happened, therefore God sent fire to the cities. People back then literally went out and attempted to snatch people from the fire! I want to be like Abraham. I want to do my job as a Christian and go out and make disciples and i dont want to have a judgemental attitude at all. As a Christian, I will always have that duty to fulfill. I pray that i will continue on evangelizing for the Lords sake- especially with Easter at the Bren coming up in only two weeks!!!
Maranatha!!!
22 And have mercy on those who doubt;
This verse just makes me think of how I have friends that doubt Jesus and think he isn’t real. I try my best to tell them about Jesus and that we was real and what he did here on Earth and how he desires a relationship with us, but a lot of times they ignore me and they think I’m the fool. Then that just gives me the motivation sometimes to just give up on them and think that they have no chance. I really need to keep working with them though and giving them more knowledge about Jesus and getting them to come to Church. This verse encourages me to do that
In this short letter, Jude warns us of a people able to corrupt and stain the Church of Jesus Christ, and they could even be among us:
“For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (Jude 1:4).
I cannot help but wonder, of all the churches, what is it that leads some to fall and some to rise in truth. Other than the obvious being, God’s favor and will, Jude tells us that their are people among the believers (even Compass Bible Church) who are “hidden reefs (blemishes) in our love feasts…waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted…grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage” (Jude 1:12-13,16).
The description above is genuinely convicting: grumblers, unreliable people blown to-and-fro by winds; fruitless, boasters, malcontents. I even do some of these things. I would be guilty to claim innocence from malcontent, I make a share of boasts, and I grumble frequently too. Yet…
I must: “keep [myself] in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” I will wait in the mercy of God, and remember the Gospel, justification from my sins.
So what do we do with the ungodly who have crept into the church? According to Jude, don’t join with them or accept their sin, but “show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.” Be merciful to them and leave God to the judgment, but hate their actions in a way that we would refuse to participate, as if we were polluting our souls.
I’m praying for the Campus Lunches for the next two weeks! Maranatha!!
I read…
In these last few books of the Bible, we see a common theme, perseverance. Perseverance is key because this life is tough. God placed these encouragements at the end of the Bible to remind us to keep our faiths and never fall away. Let us encourage our friends so that they do not stop standing!
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.
Jude not only offers great wisdom regarding false teachers and how we should be on guard against them, but it also provides strong encouragement to abide in our faith and remain in the love of Christ Jesus, our Lord. In order to be equipped to defend the faith and ward off false teachings I need to keep myself in prayer (v. 20) and regular study of God’s word. God has promised that when I draw near, He will draw near (James 4:8)–and I draw near through talking and listening to God. By reading God’s word (listening) and speaking to Him in prayer, I will be better prepared to face whatever situations God presents me (as 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds me). Devotion to study and prayer will build me up (again v. 20) and make me spiritually mature–ready for solid food vs. milk Hebrews 5:14!!!!!!
8 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.
So many people in this world already live for themselves and only seek out what they want to do. Verse 19 said these people are the ones who cause divisions, and as Christians we need to be watching out for them always! We need to stay separate and remain steadfast in God’s love, while we wait for the day he comes back.
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.
The end times are near and it can behappen any time from in 100 years or even tomorrow. We need to make sure that we are ready and that we are doing all we can for God’s kingdom before Christ returns. We should continue to show others the love of God with our words as well as our actions. Faith and prayer are the most important things for a christian to have right now as the time gets closer and closer.
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
we need to praise Jesus the Lord of Lords forever
c u all later
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.
The only true comfort is in the Lord. Sometimes, not even comfort food can help. Eating a whole box of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, sitting on the couch with your mom, and having a heart-to-heart won’t always do the trick (believe it or not). But i really relized that tonight, actually. When i felt upset, or hurt, i found myself going for the word as fast as i could and just reading. I liked this verse alot, how it talks about being built up in holy faith and the love of Christ. That’s something that you know will always be there! And it’s not just a comfort, it’s a real awe inspiring love and a true blessing that we don’t deserve. Now i’m thinking about those pictures they have in churches like saddleback, where it showes Jesus with His arms open wide in his big white robe with a little girl running to Him, just knowing about all of His love! I learned that God doesn’t love us for “who we are”, but He loves us through what Christ did, and that will build me up whenever i am down! The Lord killed His only son for us and poured His ENTIRE wrath out on Him!!! Amen!
22 And have mercy on those who doubt;
It is terribly easy to get frustrated with people who are blatantly ignorant of the truth that Jesus is Lord, and that without him we are doomed to eternal punishment. So many people around me could care less, and even persecute me for my faith. However, I need to be especially patient and merciful with these people, as they need it the most. If I don’t witness to them, there is a chance that no one else will. For God to save people through things I say to them, I need to put out the effort. If I remain quiet when then topic of Jesus comes up, or even don’t bring it up, how can I call myself a Christian that is representing Christ? I need to always be relying on God’s strength to be both merciful and bold to the non-christians around me, always treating them with gentleness and respect.
Okay, so this book was a little hard for me to digest… Not sure why, just was. Anyway, here is my post:)
21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
I need to be fully IN God’s love, and I can’t be there completely unless I’m in His Word, because how can I know what He has done for me and how much He has shown His love if I’m not reading and learning about it?? The answer: I can’t. I need to start fully living in God’s love: so, I need to be in His Word daily. Not only reading, though, but meditating and doing what it commands me to do. He has done so much for me and for you, there shouldn’t be a moment in my day where I am not thinking about Him and His love and mercy!
Maranatha!!!
8 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.
The end times are coming! Yes! Although it’s exciting that Jesus is coming back…the Bible says it’s only going to get tougher living for Him. Prayer and Bible reading are two of the key elements to in staying in Christ. I am focusing on these two thing and am striving to accomplish them everyday.
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen
I love these ending verses! Jesus Christ is able to keep us righteous and away from all sin so that we can be presented holy in the eyes of the Lord. What an amazing reality we have that should produce such genuine joy in our hearts!
16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.
This verse stuck out to me because out of all the sins and ungodly deeds God picked grumbling to point out to us. I grumble or complain without even thinking of it as sin sometimes. This shows me how important it is to be in God’s Word daily because your eyes are always being opened more and more and we are continuing to be convicted. I need to be careful about not complaining and instead thank God for all the blessings he has given me and show others His joy that is within me.
21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
Until Jesus return, this verse tells me that I need to “keep [myself] in the love of God.” I do this by obeying His commandments, as it says in John 15:9-10. As I live each day here on this Earth, I want to live being ready for the day when Jesus returns! I want to be glorifying His name and everyday eagerly awaiting for Him to return. My love for Christ will show through the way that I live! I’m praying that I would truly take these words to action and live my life to glorify God and willingly obey His commands!
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.
Until the day comes when our Lord will rescue us from this imperfect world, I pray that the Lord will help me remain strong in my faith and teach me to love him more and more so that I may rejoice in my opportunities to follow his commandments and please him!!!
I liked the verse when it was talking about God keeping us from stumbling.
It reminded me if 1Corinthians10:13.How God will give provide a way for you to stand above your temptation. I like to think if it as you conscience too. I love how I the movies they show the little devil and angel on the shoulder. They are giving you two options to choose from and in theend hopfully you make the right choice.
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.
In verse 20, “building yourselves up in your most holy faith,” stuck out to me and reminded me of Girls Workshop yesterday. To build myself up in the faith, I need to be in God’s Word daily, and not just reading it, but studying it and really learning and meditating on his word. At GW we talked about how to get TAN and Christa said how could I not study God’s word when he has loved and saved me? That stuck out when she was speaking. I need to make sure I am studying God’s Word daily and obeying him and giving him my all each day. What Pastor Bobby said today about thinking on what Jesus has done for me and making it personal stuck out to me today because I don’t think on that daily. The gospel though is so important for my daily life and I need to be reading and meditating on it each day.
22 And have mercy on those who doubt;
It seems like when someone bashes Christianity we just feel like giving up and getting into an argument with them. Are they really going to see Gods love if im arguing with them? More then likely no, they wont. Patience is SO important in talking to people about God. I could just give up and let them be and just pray about it, but maybe that isnt enough. I cant let anger rule over me and have that be what people see in me, it just isnt right. People need to see the true love of God, and if im the only one who someone sees is a true Christian, then let it be genuine. When someone is doubting Jesus, my job is to show them the light. Not to get angry or even quiet about it. I pray that God will give me patience, courage, and mercy on those who have not yet experienced Gods love.
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.
As a new christian, it is important to build up in your faith and build up your relationship with the Lord! Prayer is also extremely important, it is our way of communicating with God. His Word is extremely important because it is his way of talking to us! Verse 23 encourages me to evangelize. It is so important for us to evangelize because we could save others from the eternal fire of Hell! How sad would it be if we didnt even try to talk to our friends, and they are looking up at us in Heaven wondering why we never talked with them! That would be disappointing on our part so it is extremely important. It is also important to evangelize with a sincere, kind attitude! yay tomorrow is the first day of revelations (:
AMEN (:
lets go EVANGELIZEEE!
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
Verse 24 is a great reminder that Jesus is the one who is able to keep us from stumbling. We would have no hope of pleasing Him or being obedient if it wasn’t for Him helping us every step of the way and empowering us with the Holy Spirit. It is only through Him and his sacrifice that we can be blameless before a Holy God!
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.
I really need to make sure I don’t end up as a stagnant Christian. I may think “I know everything I need to” or “I’m alright with God now, I can stop working on my walk.” Wrong! I need to be ~constantly~ building myself up in God’s word and praying every day that the Holy Spirit would do good works through me. Now why would I do any of this? Well, I am waiting for the coming of Jesus (or me dying, whichever one comes first :P) Because of that, I want to make sure I don’t fall away between now and then, so I should be constantly digging into the Bible and spending time in prayer so I have firm roots in Christ and will be able to persevere. This will help me mature in Christ and learn how else I can serve Christ before I meet Him.
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen
Our Lord is the one and only true God there is! Some religions don’t agree with us on who God is, but He is our creator and he sent his only son to free us from our sins with his painful death on the cross even though we don’t deserve anything that Jesus Christ did for us. To him be the glory for eternity that he deserves!!
“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.” I am so excited to be in heaven with my Lord and savior. I am anxiously awaiting the day when i get to worship at the feet of jesus forever and ever AMENNNN!! But until then i am going to work each and every day to make myself pleasing to God, to be holy as my Father in heaven is holy.
“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.” As Bobby said today, this needs to be the most intense 2 weeks of evangelism we have ever experienced as a Christian! And easter coming up makes it so much easier! I am so excited to go out into the world and be the street team for Jesus, my lord and savior!!!
Oh happy day happy day, he washed my sin away. I’ll never be the same. Forever i am changed! (:
MARANATHA!!!
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy
This verse give me so much confidence in God! I know he can keep all of us at True North from falling. We won’t stop standing because God will bring us all the way into his presence!
Looking forward to the book of Revelation tomorrow!
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
This is just amazing!
Even though we are so full of sin, if we believe in Him, He will still find us blameless on the day of judgment.
We are SOOOO undeserving of such mercy, but He will still show it to us.
Praise be to Him forever and ever :)
People need to be reading the Bible. It just helped me right now from sinning. Praise the Lord!
What a strong statement! Jude is a man that fears the inevitable. People being “in” the church without being God’s sheep. I feel that this is not only a warning but also as a template. I’m using all the description Jude gives us about the apostates and seeing if I am falling like they are. A verse that impacted me was Jude 22. It says that God has mercy for those who doubt. Doubt? Doubt what? This is when I get confused. I know that Jonathan Edwards would state that people may doubt their salvation because their is no certainty of salvation. We know that we are only saved if we keep up with our holy fruits. But what does the Bible say? Romans 8 states, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” I can have an assurance of faith in my Lord Jesus Christ that his work on the cross is finished. I don’t need to pay back for any sins that I did because then I would be saying Jesus’ work wasn’t enough. Then, Jonny, what does Jude mean when he says “mercy on those who doubt”? Good question, my answer: I don’t know. Doubt, well, it can mean numerous things. Doubt God before I was a Christian and then He still gave me mercy and enlightened me. That makes sense because the next verse says mercy that saves from fire. It could also mean doubting my own salvation. We know that we can’t doubt Jesus’ work because it is complete. But we, imperfect beings, can be living a life that is a lie. We can say that we live for God and don’t. And even in that state God will give His mercy to us so that we may see that we are sinners in need of that mercy. And only then can we experience that mercy. Through acknowledging that I should be on the cross, but Jesus, who lived the perfect life that I couldn’t live, died on that cross for me, and then RESURRECTED! Putting my faith into that, and giving up my life (ie. stop living to please myself, but to please God), well, that’s how I can experience, and do experience, the mercy that I receive because my wrath was poured out on my Blessed Sufferer.
15 to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16
This is a very scary verse for those that are not children of God. I am so glad that I am a servant of Christ. He has given us the opportunity to flee from our sin and serve God instead of our sinful desires. This made me think about pastor lucas’ message today and how we need to strive to be serving God because He freed us. Our God is so awesome and He deserves far more than we can ever offer Him
16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.
In the middle of this passage talking about the judgement of God coming on sinners, it brings up the sins of grumbling and discontentment. While these sins seem small, God sees them as a big deal! A heart that is discontent is not a heart that is trusting in God to provide according to His will; instead, it looks at the world with a sense of entitlement, thinking that somehow it should be in a different situation than it is now. Often I am tempted to grumble and complain about homework, but I need to view it as something that Christ is giving me for a reason, and therefore I need to do it joyfully and with an attitude of service to Him and submission to my teachers.
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.
Yes, unfortunately it is true that many people constantly put down Christianity. Many people laugh at Christians and then go fulfill their worldly desires and do what makes only themselves happier. Some people may claim to be a christian but then live a life of sin and chase after worldly things. I often pray and ask God to help me forget about worldly things so that I am not a person that makes christians look like hypocrites.
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
I love the ending of Jude!!! It puts all the focus back on Jesus. It is ONLY Jesus that can prevent me from stumbling and that can present me as blameless before God. Without Jesus, I am nothing. Without Jesus, I’m the one that needs to die on the cross and take the punishment for all my sin for all eternity. Without Jesus, I have no hope! I want to take the gospel personally and remember it every day this week.
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,
This verse is so encouraging for me. He can keep me from stumbling! I know that I need to be fighting sin in my life, but I need to remember that it’s not by my power that I resist…it’s God! Without Him, I would still be full of blame and headed straight to hell.
23 save others by snatching them out of the fire
If a person does not repent and put their faith in Christ, and if a person isn’t on God’s team, they are going straight to hell. That doesn’t sound good to me at all. So, when we think of unsaved people in our lives, what keeps us back from sharing the gospel with them? I am so unworthy, yet because of God’s grace, I will go to heaven one day. I did absolutely nothing to deserve it, so when I look at a non believer I have to remember to do my part as God’s servant and share the good news, trusting that God will make the change in their heart, enabling them to see the truth. I pray that this week I’ll be bold in sharing my faith with others!
keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life
It woud be great if Jesus could come back now. No more struggling with sinful desires and battling the forces of evil. Instead the sweet joy of worshipping Christ in spirit and truth with no interruptions. Sounds good to me. Maranatha!!
24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen
These are exciting verses! To begin with, the first verse talks of how only God is able to keep people from stumbling and only he can present people as blameless before his glory in his wonderful presence. And then He ascribes all glory and dominion and authority from before the beginning till now and forever more to the only God, the only Savior. Now anyone on their own power fails. In a fight to stay standing, not one out of their own power would stand, but instead all stumble and fall. Everyone has chosen to turn away from God and live for themselves, yet there is a way that such a sinner can be presented in the holy presence of the Lord as blameless.
This is awesome stuff! I need to be praising God for the truth found in these verses! On my own, my life is a wreck. Before Christ, I was lost in darkness as I wandered around in the deep pit of sin which overtook my life. Yet now, when I am stumbling, I can still cling on to Jesus and now that I don’t have to fall. And for all my failures, I still know that because of Jesus Christ, I will stand blameless before God as the perfect atoning sacrifice bore my sins. God is the only one deserving of any praise. And more than that, he is deserving of all praise. He reigns as Sovereign Lord over all the earth. He is more than deserving of every single person falling facedown to worship him! Though there will be a time later when every knee will bow and every tongue confess him as Lord, I’m ready to do this right now in my life! Unto the Lamb who sits on the throne be glory and honor and praise! The Lord of Lords!
16 These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.
this verse was like BAMMM dont do this ever! as Christians we are called to be good examples to everyone encouraging one another and not doing any of the above. i thought that this passage represents exactly what the world has turned into and that we need to rise above it all and dare too be differrent no matter how hard! just like the theme from last revival NO COMPROMISE!!!!!<33333 ttyl
25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
This is what our lives should be all about, giving all glory, majesty, dominion, and authority to God. I love how this verse clearly states how there is only one true God who is our Savior. Through Jesus Christ we have been saved. Like Pastor Bobby said this morning, I need to make sure I do not gloss over this, but take the gospel personally, everyday. Reading this should move me everytime! God is the same throughout all of time: yesterday, today, and in the future. The Lord He is God!
Jude 1
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
Christians need to be fully aware of false teachers that have infiltrated the church. There will be wolves that are dressed in sheep’s clothing looking for a Christian to devour. We need to be careful not to assume that everyone who goes to church is of God. The Christian life is a war against the forces of evil which sometimes meets us right here where we worship. Jude is warning us not to become deceived by those who look to bring us down to the pit. Stand firm in your faith and be on guard for your life! Strengthen yourself thru the knowledge and wisdom that is the word of God.
Acts 20:29-30 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.
Matthew 7:15-16 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits.
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.
Yes life can be tough and it can be a lonnng lsting battle but we need to keep our eyes on the prize ahead. It would be sooo great to hear the Lord say well done good and faithful slave! But for right now living I need to be obedient and strong on the Lord as long as he gives me life. I want to end my life feeling like I did God’s work continually and that I didnt just waste it on. And I need to pray pray PRAY!!!! Communication is imperative for a personal relationship with Christ. I need to be one with the Holy Spirit and have it as my armor at allll times! The Holy Spirit is such an amazing thing, its a living miracle! I am so glad that the Lord arms me in the toughest armor, all i need to do is put it on by living strong in the obediece of the Lord. That is my prayer, that God will give perseverence to do what he commands me.
Good Morning!!
verse 23
23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
This verse is showing me that the only way to save others close to you is to snatch them from their firey fates. Witness to them about the Lord Jesus Christ. Tell them about what He has done for you and how you were saved(recent church discussion). Yes we can pray for them but it would be much better for us and for them to go and do it yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you courage and you will receive it. Use this courage to go up to someone and tell them about God.
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.
Yes, I know this comment is a day late, but after reading this in my Bible, I *HAD* to comment here as well. These verses are no underlined and highlighted. :)
We are told to have mercy on those who doubt…to save them by snatching them from the fire. Pastor Bobby’s sermon last week talked about how we need to make sure that the people around us get a chance to hear about God..we don’t want them sitting in Hell looking up to Heaven, saying “How come that girl never told me the Truth about this Jesus dude??”
My goal is to make sure everyone around me gets a chance to hear about the Almighty God
2 May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
I loved this verse because it talks about those who believe in the Lord and live through his words may have mercy, peace and love. We as Christians should love one another and to know that we will have the Lords live forever and ever is something we should cherish.
I think verse 18 describes our world today. Everyone is selfish, materialistic, envious, and violent. Jesus is coming back soon!! maranatha!!
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.
I love the phrase “snatching them out of the fire.” It reminds me that we need to be telling everyone about the love of God, but the judgement and eternal punishment or eternal reward that is to come. Every time someone is saved, we are one step closer to being in the sky with Jesus Christ and all the other Christians!! :)
22 And have mercy on those who doubt
I love this verse because even though it is short, it yet again tells us something to do. We shouldn’t be all up in a non-Christian’s grill and scare them off, but we need to have patience.
Sorry for posting so late :/
22 And have mercy on those who doubt
great verse
i really liked verse 2
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
Maranatha!!! I cant wait for the day the Lors comes, or as this says, until our time of waitng for our Lord Jesus Christ that is leading toward eternal life had ended. Also what this vese said to me is that we need to keep building, or filling) up our lives with the faith, and continue to pray to the Lord.