Contending for the Faith: Lessons from the Epistle of Jude

In a world where truth is often diluted and compromise creeps into every corner, the short but powerful Epistle of Jude stands as a timeless beacon for believers. Written by Jude, the brother of James and half-brother of Jesus Christ, this letter isn't just ancient wisdom—it's a urgent call to action for Christians today. Originally intended as a message about our common salvation, Jude pivots to exhort us to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 1:3). As fundamentalist Christians, we know the Bible is inerrant and unchanging, and Jude's words remind us why we must defend it fiercely against infiltration and apostasy.

The Danger of False Teachers

Jude wastes no time in exposing the threat: "certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:4). These aren't obvious enemies storming the gates; they're subtle deceivers slipping into the church, twisting grace into a license for sin. In our modern context, think of progressive theologies that downplay sin, endorse lifestyles contrary to Scripture, or blend worldly philosophies with the Gospel. Jude warns that such influences lead to destruction.

To drive home the point, Jude draws from history and Scripture. He recalls the Israelites freed from Egypt, only for the unbelieving to perish in the wilderness (Jude 1:5; Numbers 14:29-30). Their murmuring and doubt serve as a stark warning—God delivers, but He also judges unfaithfulness. Then there's the angels who rebelled, now chained in darkness awaiting judgment (Jude 1:6; 2 Peter 2:4). And who can forget Sodom and Gomorrah, consumed by fire for their immorality (Jude 1:7; Genesis 19)? These aren't mere stories; as Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 10:11, they're "ensamples... written for our admonition."

Expanding on this, consider how these examples parallel today's church. Just as Cain murdered Abel out of envy (Jude 1:11; Genesis 4:8), some leaders today harbor jealousy that poisons ministries. Balaam's greed for reward (Numbers 22) mirrors prosperity preachers chasing wealth over truth. And Korah's rebellion against authority (Numbers 16) echoes those who undermine biblical leadership. Jude describes these false teachers vividly: "spots in your feasts of charity... clouds they are without water... raging waves of the sea" (Jude 1:12-13). They're empty promises, leading souls astray into eternal darkness.

The Prophecy and the Coming Judgment

Jude doesn't leave us in despair—he points to ultimate justice. Quoting Enoch, he prophesies: "Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all" (Jude 1:14-15). This echoes Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ returns as King to vanquish evil. In these "last times," mockers and lust-driven scoffers will abound (Jude 1:18; 2 Timothy 3:1-5), but their end is certain.

As believers, we're not called to passive observation. Jude urges: "Build up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God" (Jude 1:20-21). This is spiritual warfare, as outlined in Ephesians 6:12. We must show mercy to doubters, snatch others from the fire (Jude 1:22-23; James 5:20), all while hating sin's stain.

A Call to Steadfastness in Troubled Times

Fundamentalist Christians, we live in an era of rampant apostasy. Churches embrace relativism, question the Bible's authority, and tolerate what God calls abomination—all under the guise of "inclusivity." But Scripture commands separation: "Come out from among them, and be ye separate" (2 Corinthians 6:17). Let Jude inspire us to stand unyielding, anchored in the inerrant Word, redeemed by Christ's blood, and empowered by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).

In closing, remember Jude's doxology: "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling... to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty" (Jude 1:24-25). May we contend earnestly, guarding the faith for generations to come.


DMMC 

10-30-25

Location: Peru, IN 46970, USA

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