Do you ever get the feeling that things around you in this world are falling apart? What do you think when you hear the world events that are happening or the events in your life that may not seem to be following the path that you would like? The book of Jude gives us some comfort and thinking about our life and our challenges and puts it in a perspective that we should ponder upon.
Jude is packed with powerful reminders for Christians. In verses 17–23, Jude encourages believers to stay strong when the world around them seems to be falling apart. He gives three big lessons: know what’s coming, stay close to God, and help others find their way back to Him.
1. Know What’s Coming
Jude starts by reminding us that the apostles (the first leaders of the church) warned that in the last days, there would be people who mock God and only care about pleasing themselves. He says these people cause division and live only by their human desires because they don’t have God’s Spirit in their lives.
This warning is still true today. We see people all around us who make fun of God’s Word or who live for whatever feels good in the moment. Jude’s point is: don’t be surprised by this. God already told us it would happen. Instead of letting it shake your faith, stay alert and steady.
2. Stay Close to God
Next, Jude tells believers how to stay strong:
Build up your faith – Spend time reading and learning the Bible, going to church, and growing spiritually. Pray with the Holy Spirit’s help – Prayer isn’t just saying words; it’s talking with God and listening for His direction. Stay in God’s love – Keep your relationship with Him alive and healthy. Avoid things that pull you away from Him and choose things that draw you closer.
Jude also says we should live with hope, remembering that Jesus will one day return and bring eternal life to those who trust Him.
3. Help Others
Jude doesn’t want us to just think about ourselves. He tells us to reach out and help others, even when it’s messy or hard:
Help those who are doubting – Be kind and patient with people who have questions about their faith. Rescue those in danger – If someone is heading down a destructive path, step in and try to pull them out before it’s too late. Be careful when dealing with sin – Show mercy to people who are deep in sin, but don’t get pulled into their way of life. Hate the sin, but love the person.
How Does This Apply to Us?
Jude’s words give us a clear plan for living as Christians today:
Don’t be surprised when people reject God. Keep your relationship with God strong through prayer, the Bible, and staying in His love. Show mercy and compassion to others, helping them come to Jesus without getting caught up in their sin.
Life can feel confusing and divided, but God gives us what we need to stand firm and love others. As we wait for Jesus to return, we are called to stay strong and help others find Him too.
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