Today’s reading is Jude 1 which was written by one of Jesus’ brothers.
But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.
Jude 1:17-19
In recent years, and especially within recent months with the conflict in Iran, many predict we are in the end times. I don’t know if we are or not and specifically Jesus says that only the Father knows the hour (Matthew 24:36, Mark 13:32). But I do know one thing, we are a day closer than we were yesterday just like I’m a day older than I was yesterday. So, each day we are closer to end times, and we see more and more of this that Jude describes. We see more people saying it’s OK to do whatever you feel and want to do, regardless of if the Bible says is right or wrong. And if you believe it’s not OK to do whatever you want and whatever you feel, you are the one who is the judgmental person in the wrong. They do this to create even more division just as described in Jude 1:19.
God gives us specific instructions as to how to respond to all that is going on in our world..
1. Draw Closer to God
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”
Jude 1:20-21
Pray and stay in relationship with Him to receive His mercy and eternal life.
2. Show Mercy to Those Who Are Falling into Sin
“And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.”
Jude 1:22-23
Despite the division that social in traditional media and the world tries to create, God is telling us to not hate those who sin. Let us not forget that each of us is a sinner ourselves. Have a soft heart for others falling into sin. Jesus modeled this himself on the cross.
“And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.”
Luke 23:34
He was dying for the very ones who were killing him. In the same way, we must show compassion and mercy and try to lead others to the forgiveness that we have in Christ which will then result in them turning away from their sin as it does for us.
3. Be Careful Not to Fall into the Same Sinful Behavior
“save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.”
Jude 1:23
We still must have caution to not condone sin and fall into it. Hate the sin, love the sinner…just as God does you and me. Be careful to not be like an undercover cop we see in movies who when going in to do good, can then fall into making the same mistakes and become one of the criminals himself.
4. Trust in and Glorify Him as You Fight the Good Fight
“Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”
Jude 1:24-25
