Scripture
Jude 18-22 – 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. 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 of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
Observation –
Jude is writing to a group of Christians reminding them what the apostles told them it would be like in end times. People will mock and follow their own worldly passions causing divisiveness. Those who love self and are ungodly are not of the Spirit. Jude tells the believers to take action and grow your faith by Spirit led prayer to draw near to God and by his grace life everlasting with Him.
Application –
Jude’s cautionary reminder of the apostles telling of life and attitudes in the latter days is clearer to see today than ever before in my lifetime. Many are deceived and turning from God seeking their own way lacking divine knowledge and leading lives that are derisive towards God. You are either in the word or in the world and this is causing great division. My response has to be to seek God in word, prayer and focus on Jesus’ Heavenly Kingdom. I must rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to build me up in faith to follow God’s Word to receive then share the love of the Gospel with a lost, fearful and hurting world.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word from Jude. Thank you for your grace in sending Jesus to save and redeem me from my sins. Let the power of the Spirit give me strength in my faith and draw me near to you to use me to share your love and Gospel here and to the nations.