Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write to you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write to you… I. THE CAUSE TO RE DEFENDED. "The faith." 1. Christians are not called upon to contend for — (1) Mere forms and ceremonies. (2) Mere speculative opinions, though those opinions may refer to some points of Christian doctrine. 2. We are to contend for — (1) The great facts of the gospel. The incarnation, miracles, sufferings, death, resurrection, etc., of Christ. (2) The essential doctrines of the faith. The fall of man. Divinity and atonement of Christ. Influence of Holy Spirit. Salvation by faith. (3) The experimental power and influence of the faith. Practical holiness. II. THE NATURE OF THIS DUTY. "Earnestly contend." 1. Not with bigoted zeal. 2. Not with secular, carnal weapons. 3. In a Christian spirit. 4. Judiciously. 5. Practically. By example, as well as precept or rebuke. III. THE NECESSITY OF DISCHARGING THIS DUTY. 1. It is enjoined by Divine authority. 2. By contending for the faith you will yourself become more established in it. (Josiah Hill.) Parallel Verses KJV: Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. |
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