By Janice Hall
Overview
Scripture Lesson Text: Jude 1:1-13
The book of Jude is full of warnings, but it gives us true confidence in God. Jude was a blood relative of Jesus, but he considered himself only as a bond servant of Jesus Christ. Jude wrote to Christians and identified his readers in various ways. A person is a Christian because God has called him and is sanctified by God the Father. They are preserved in Jesus, being their guardian and protector.
The warm greeting, “mercy, peace, and love” is found in the opening of the chapter, as in many of Paul’s letters. Jude found it necessary for the call to defend the faith, because of dangerous’ certain’ men among the Christians. Jude confronts false teachers who distort the message about Jesus, and to lead others astray. The church must work locally and internationally to defend the faith, because false teachings can lead to immorality.
In verses, 5-7, Jude gave three examples that showed God’s judgement against the ‘ certain’ men. There was the example of the people of Israel, the angels that sinned, and God’s judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah. These passages make references to the Old Testament events to help explain the apostate’s sin, the danger they pose, and how the punishment would be given by the Lord. Jude exhorts readers to contend for the faith against ungodly teachers. (Jude 1:3b)
Related Scriptures: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-10; 2 Timothy 3:1-9; 2 Peter 2: 1-22
The chapter (2 Thessalonians 1:1-10), opens with Paul’s usual greeting, then shifts into words of encouragement. Paul identifies himself, Timothy, and Silas as the authors of this letter. Paul praised the Thessalonian Christians for their faithfulness during the persecution and suffering. Paul gave them reassurance, that God sees their struggles and will use them for His own glory, even though pending judgement was at hand. The believers were to stay encouraged and continue their good works.
In 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Paul speaks of difficult times in these last days. These last days are used here sometimes referred to the ‘ the church age’. Timothy is told to avoid men that will love themselves only, seek money, elevate themselves, exploit other people, hate goodness, while pretending to be religious. Paul encourages Timothy to stand strong in his faith, while relying on the written Word of God.
We see in 2 Peter 2:1-22, Peter speaks and condemns the false teachers who have been found within the church. The destruction was promised and brought by God. These false teachers came from within the church. The false teachers 1) denied the sovereignty of God 2) openly indulged in sexual sin and led others to follow 3) used lies to exploit the Christians for their own gain. Peter assured them that God was aware and destruction was coming.
Practical Point:
The Christian life involves a constant struggle we should prepare ourselves for…..
There are a number of practices, in the areas of a Christian struggle, that can be implemented. A consistent, daily routine of prayer and meditation while focusing on scriptures that pertain to the matter, allows us to lean on God’s guidance. We want to find ourselves accountable to an assembly of believers and to be mentored by a mature leader. We also want to acknowledge that these struggles are part of the Christian walk, and God will sustain us, while our character is being defined. Through fasting and prayer, God will direct us in every facet of our lives.
