Jude

Take a look at the letter from Jude. He wants to write about the salvation we share, but feels he must write to urge the brothers to contend for the faith that has been entrusted to the saints.

He then begins to warn them of judgment that has come in the past and will come to those in their time and ours who do not give God the reverence he is due. This really is the heart of the message.

Sinful men who show their disdain for God and his people by not humbling themselves when they come before him, renouncing their sins and repenting of their self-seeking ways.

He reminds them that Enoch prophesied that the Lord would come in might and power with all his holy ones and bring harsh judgement on those who chose to live ungodly lives.

Note some of the sins he mentions. They are not the ones I tend to look for in those called the ungodly:

1. grumblers

2. faultfinders

3. they that follow their own evil desires

4. those who boast about themselves

5. those who flatter others to their own advantage

Then Jude reminds them that the apostles warned them that in the last times scoffers would come--those who follow their own godless desires. These men will divide you. They are those who follow their own natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.

Remember 1 John 4:1? "Dear Friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God..."

How can I protect myself so that I do not fall from my secure position? Jude gives us four action steps n verses 20, 21.

1. Build yourselves up in your most holy faith

2. Pray in the Holy Spirit

3. Keep yourselves in God's love

4. Wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life

Jude concludes his letter by encouraging believers to:

1. Be merciful to those who doubt

2. Snatch others from the fire and save them

3. To others show mercy, mixed with fear, hating even the clothing stained by corrupt flesh

Jude doesn't just leave us there. He has a praise and adoration moment as he gives our Lord his due:

1. To him who is able to keep you from falling