As I read through the book of Jude, I was struck by his imagery and call to perseverance. Jude, one of the Catholic Letters, is addressed to Christians scattered throughout the world following Nero’s persecution. Jude’s first call to action is for believers to contend for the faith, surrounded by heavy opposition trying to diminish the name of Jesus in verse 4.
Continuing in verse 10, Jude exposes the mindset which the church is fighting about today. People in Jude’s days were like unreasoning animals, following their own instincts, their sinful nature instead of the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately, we live in an opinion oriented society, where in many cases opinions have risen to the same level as facts, making it nearly impossible to reason with other beliefs..
Finally, Jude builts upon the apostle Paul teaching in Romans 14:1 and Galatians 6:1, to merciful on younger and weaker believers. Jude calls followers to hold less mature believers accountable, snatching them away from the fire in verse 23. If we heed these warnings, we will receive the blessing of James 5:19-20. in these last days, contend for the faith, follow the Spirit and snatch backsliding Christians away from hell’s gates.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 