*Jude 1:17-25
Jude calls on believers to remember apostolic warnings about false teachers, build themselves up in faith, and show mercy to those who doubt or are entangled in sin.
- Reminder of Apostolic Predictions:
- Jude reminds the readers about the words previously spoken by the apostles of Jesus Christ.
- The apostles had warned that in the last times there would be scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires.
- Division and Depravity:
- These divisive individuals are described as worldly-minded, devoid of the Spirit.
- Jude portrays them as a threat to the community’s stability and spiritual health.
- Call to Perseverance:
- Believers are urged to build themselves up in their most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit.
- They are encouraged to keep themselves in the love of God while waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
- Merciful Outreach:
- Instructions are given on how to deal with those who doubt or falter:
- Be merciful to those who doubt.
- Save others by snatching them from the fire.
- To others, show mercy mixed with fear, hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
- Instructions are given on how to deal with those who doubt or falter:
- Doxology:
- The letter concludes with a doxology, praising God who is able to keep believers from falling and to present them blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy.
- It ascribes glory, majesty, dominion, and authority to God, through Jesus Christ, before all ages, now, and forevermore.
Jude 1:17-25 reminds us to stay strong in our faith, even when we face challenges or see others turning away from God. We can apply this by building our lives on God’s truth, praying, and trusting in His love. Instead of being discouraged by the world’s troubles, we should show kindness and patience to those who are struggling, helping to guide them back to God. Most importantly, we can find comfort in knowing that God is able to keep us safe in His care and bring us into His presence with joy.
Jude 1:17-25 (WEB)
1:17 But you, beloved, remember the words which have been spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be mockers, walking after their own ungodly lusts.” 19 These are those who cause divisions and are sensual, not having the Spirit.20 But you, beloved, keep building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit. 21 Keep yourselves in God’s love, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life. 22 On some have compassion, making a distinction, 23 and some save, snatching them out of the fire with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh.24 Now to him who is able to keep them from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory in great joy, 25 to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.