Contend For The Faith

"Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith..."
– Jude 3

Jude and James are the half-brothers of Jesus (Mark 6:3). I imagine the many things they could see while growing up with their brother, their Savior. When he began writing this book, Jude’s heart was really to write about those things regarding our common salvation. Yet the Lord had other plans. The Holy Spirit moved on Jude’s heart to take a different direction. Rather than writing a book of comforts, it was a warning and call to arms.

The book of Jude speaks to the days we are living in now. The days of Apostasy. This book has such a unique place in the canon of Scripture. As Luke wrote the “Acts of the Apostles,” we can refer to the book of Jude as the “Acts of the Apostates.” How appropriate then that it was placed right before the Revelation. It was not by coincidence; this is by design. God always gives warnings before bringing judgment.

There will be a time when we all stand before the Lord in judgment. As believers in Christ, however, it is not to determine penalties for our sins. Christ has already dealt with those on the cross (John 5:24; Galatians 3:13). At the Bema seat of Christ, we as believers in Jesus as our Lord and Savior will have our works tested. And, our actions as believers will be rewarded (2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15). We may think to ourselves, “I don’t want a reward. I am just glad I am in heaven!” Of course, I agree. But as we live in this life, there is nothing greater than to be used by God to help further His kingdom. What amazing rewards must be waiting for those in Christ who have led others to Salvation through Him.

There are so many opportunities for us to share Christ with others today, especially in these days of Apostasy, and we need to pray that the Lord will use us. This is why we must continue to walk in the light and make ourselves available for Him. What keeps our compass pointing true North is the Word of God. Is your moral compass pointing true North?