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 gospel, which is characterised by its spiritual or experimental effect, is here called "THE SALVATION." It is the instrumental medium through which this comprehensive blessing is conveyed to the soul. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. II. The gospel is not only called "the salvation," but "THE COMMON SALVATION." This may be intended to intimate — 1. That the salvation which the gospel reveals flows to believers from one common source — Christ. 2. That it is the same salvation that is enjoyed by all the children of God. 3. That the salvation of the gospel is common to every age, and class, and clime. 4. That all true believers have a common interest in this salvation — that they are all alike bound to maintain its doctrines, to vindicate its principles, and to promote its practical designs. III. The gospel is also here described as "THE FAITH ONCE DELIVERED TO THE SAINTS." IV. THE MANNER AND SPIRIT IN WHICH WE ARE TO "CONTEND FOR THE FAITH." V. THE REASONS WHICH RENDER THIS CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH NECESSARY. 1. Because men are by nature hostile to the truth, and therefore disposed to pervert it. 2. Because the glory of God is peculiarly connected with the preservation of His truth. 3. Because the uncorrupted truth is essential to the salvation of man. 4. Because we are bound in this matter to follow the example of our Lord and His apostles. (W. McGilvray, D. D.) 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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