| Series | Letters to Titus and Jude |
|---|---|
| Theme | O TUSI IA TITO MA IUTA - O TUSI IA TITO MA IUTA |
| Colour | Lanu Pa’epa’e |
Scripture Focus: Jude 1:5–11
Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:
- Jude 1:5–11 (KJV)
Study:
The book of Jude, though brief, carries a powerful call to perseverance in the faith amidst challenges. In Jude 1:5-11, the apostle reminds believers of God's past judgments and warnings against those who distort the gospel. He recalls the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the punishment of angels who sinned, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, illustrating the certainty of divine judgment on ungodliness. Jude specifically exposes those false teachers who have crept into the church to pervert the grace of God into licentiousness, emphasizing the urgency for believers to remain steadfast and not be swayed by these corrupt influences. The passage warns that these individuals are doomed, resembling rebellious and corrupt figures from the past, characterized by arrogance, greed, and disdain for authority.
Application:
Today, the message in Jude 1:5-11 challenges Christians to persevere in faith despite deceptive teachings and moral compromise around us. Like the early church warned by Jude, we must be vigilant against false doctrines that seek to distort God's truth for personal gain or convenience. This passage encourages us to stay rooted in Scripture, relying on the sanctifying work of God the Father and the preserving power of Jesus Christ to remain faithful. Understanding God's past judgments reassures us that justice will prevail and motivates us to live holy lives while encouraging others to hold fast to sound doctrine. We are reminded not to be complacent, but to actively guard our faith and community against influences that erode godliness.
Reflection Questions:
- What are some modern-day false teachings or temptations that challenge your faith?
- How can you actively protect yourself and others in your community from spiritual deception?
- In what ways does knowing about God's past judgments strengthen your trust in His justice and holiness?
- How does the phrase "sanctified by God the Father and preserved in Jesus Christ" encourage you in your daily walk?
- What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of Scripture to guard against misleading doctrines?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us into Your sanctifying grace and preserving us through Jesus Christ. Strengthen our faith to persevere amidst challenges and protect us from deception. Help us to discern truth from falsehood and to live lives pleasing to You. Guide us in guarding our hearts and encouraging others to remain steadfast in sound doctrine. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Tags: perseverance in faith, Jude 1:5-11, false teachers, biblical warning, sanctification, staying faithful, Christian perseverance, Bible study, guarding faith, withstand temptation