“I felt compelled to write and urge you to EARNESTLY CONTEND FOR THE FAITH that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They use the grace of our God as an excuse for sexual sins, and they say NO to Jesus Christ. HE IS OUR ONLY LORD AND KING.” (Jude 1:3-4)
Jude is writing this letter to the; called, loved and kept for Jesus Christ and compelling (evoking interest in a powerfully way) them to earnestly (with sincere and intense conviction) struggle in opposition to what is happening to the Christian life style. Jude has been very enlightened as to what would happen in the last days.
As we think about holiness, living holy, dressing holy, having holy conversations and keeping our minds (our thoughts) holy. It is a real challenge in this time we are living in. We are constantly bombarded with unholy advertising and unholy TV programs and movies which anyone may watch on their cell phones. Unfortunately, it has crept into our churches and Christian homes as well. So, what do we do?
“But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, KEEP YOURSELVES IN GOD’S LOVE as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.” (Jude 1:20-21)
LET US CLEANSE OURSELVES FROM ALL DEFILEMENT OF FLESH AND SPIRIT, PERFECTING HOLINESS IN THE FEAR OF GOD.
-Bill Stockham