HIGHLIGHT
Jude 20–21 (ESV): 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.
EXPLAIN
Jude’s letter lambasts false teachers infiltrating the church, using various vivid word pictures and descriptions to paint them as totally undesirable.
Near the end of his letter, he then writes encouragement to the believers, reminding them that the apostles had warned them of those who would scoff at holiness and cause trouble in the church.
Then, Jude encouraged them to build themselves up in the faith, praying, in the Spirit, keeping themselves in God’s love, waiting for Christ’s mercy.
APPLY
Sometimes, we think that the situation in the world – spiritually, etc. – has never been worse. Scriptures like this demonstrate that in various ages, spirituality has been at a very low ebb. God’s people felt overwhelmed at times in the first century as much as we might in the 21st century.
But God’s truth has endured, and God’s people, building themselves up in their faith, have gained victory, both then and now.
Our responsibility is not to curse the darkness, but to fan the flame of our faith.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, may I grow in Christlikeness each day, trusting you, seeking your wisdom and power, living faithfully for you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.