December 13, 2022
Intro: The first advent of Jesus set into motion what Scripture calls “the last times.” Jesus came as a baby in a manger and he lived his life as the humble and suffering Servant mentioned in Isaiah’s prophecy about the Messiah (Isa 7:14; Ch 53). Yet, we must also remember not all of the prophecies regarding Jesus have been fulfilled; more revelation will be coming (Luke 22:37). According to prophecy, the second advent of Jesus will be when he returns with the armies of heaven to rule the nations (Rev 19:11-16).
Truth is always under attack; therefore, the Church must remain vigilant and faithful. Preceding our passage for today, Jude—the brother of Jesus—condemns false teachers and their heresy. These teachers distort the Scriptures in order to serve their own desires. Jude proclaims the Holy Spirit is simply not in them (v.19). These leaders teach Christians they may live any way they want and still be free from God’s punishment. Jude warns the Church not to reject the lordship of Christ.
False teachers seek to stir doubts in believers. They basically use the same line Satan used in the Garden with Eve, “Did God really say…?” If believers are not careful, they will discard the righteous commands of God and wander into deception. Jesus said, “When you obey my Father’s commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:11). So be filled with the Holy Spirit and let the joy of your salvation fill you, today. As we follow God’s commands, we are held in God’s love!
Jude 17-25 A Call to Remain Faithful
17 But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted. 18 They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. 19 These people are the ones who are creating divisions among you. They follow their natural instincts because they do not have God’s Spirit in them.
20 But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, 21 and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love.
22 And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. 23 Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.
A Prayer of Praise
24 Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. 25 All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen.