Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints. BelovedThe term "Beloved" is translated from the Greek word "ἀγαπητοί" (agapetoi), which signifies a deep, divine love. This word is often used in the New Testament to address fellow believers, emphasizing the bond of love that unites the Christian community. Jude's use of "Beloved" sets a tone of affection and concern, reminding readers of their identity as cherished members of God's family. This term also reflects the love that God has for His people, a love that is unconditional and sacrificial, as demonstrated through Christ. although I made every effort
The phrase "although I made every effort" indicates Jude's initial intention and determination. The Greek word "σπουδή" (spoudē) conveys a sense of diligence and eagerness. Jude's original plan was to write about the shared salvation, highlighting the common ground and unity among believers. This effort underscores the importance of the message he intended to convey, showing his commitment to the spiritual well-being of his audience. to write to you about the salvation we share
"To write to you about the salvation we share" reflects Jude's desire to discuss the common salvation that binds all Christians. The Greek word for "salvation," "σωτηρία" (sōtēria), encompasses deliverance, preservation, and safety, pointing to the comprehensive nature of God's saving work through Jesus Christ. This shared salvation is a central theme in Christian doctrine, emphasizing the unity and fellowship among believers who have been redeemed by the same Savior. I felt it necessary
"I felt it necessary" reveals a shift in Jude's focus due to pressing circumstances. The Greek word "ἀνάγκη" (anankē) implies a sense of compulsion or obligation. Jude's change of topic suggests an urgent need to address a specific issue threatening the faith community. This necessity highlights the importance of being responsive to the Holy Spirit's guidance and the needs of the church. to write and urge you
The phrase "to write and urge you" indicates Jude's proactive approach in addressing the situation. The Greek word "παρακαλέω" (parakaleō) means to exhort, encourage, or implore. Jude's exhortation is not merely a suggestion but a strong appeal to his readers to take action. This reflects the role of Christian leaders in guiding and motivating believers to remain steadfast in their faith. to contend earnestly for the faith
"To contend earnestly for the faith" is a call to action, derived from the Greek word "ἐπαγωνίζομαι" (epagōnizomai), which means to struggle or fight with intense effort. This metaphor of contending suggests a spiritual battle, emphasizing the need for vigilance and perseverance in defending the truth of the Gospel. The "faith" refers to the body of Christian doctrine that has been handed down from the apostles, underscoring the importance of maintaining doctrinal purity. entrusted once for all to the saints
The phrase "entrusted once for all to the saints" highlights the divine origin and permanence of the Christian faith. The Greek word "παραδοθείσῃ" (paradotheisē) means to deliver or hand over, indicating that the faith has been given as a sacred trust. "Once for all" (ἅπαξ, hapax) signifies the completeness and finality of this revelation, affirming that no new doctrines are needed. "The saints" refers to all believers, who are set apart for God, emphasizing their responsibility to guard and uphold the truth. This phrase underscores the continuity and unchanging nature of the Gospel message throughout the ages. Persons / Places / Events 1. JudeThe author of the epistle, traditionally identified as Jude, the brother of James and half-brother of Jesus. He writes with authority and concern for the early Christian community. 2. The BelovedThe recipients of the letter, likely early Christians who are being encouraged to stand firm in their faith amidst false teachings. 3. The FaithRefers to the core doctrines and beliefs of Christianity that were delivered to the saints. This faith is described as being "entrusted once for all," indicating its completeness and unchanging nature. 4. The SaintsThe believers who have been set apart by God. In this context, it refers to all Christians who have received the faith. 5. Contending for the FaithThe central action Jude urges, implying a struggle or fight to maintain the purity and truth of Christian doctrine against false teachings. Teaching Points The Urgency of Contending for the FaithJude emphasizes the necessity of defending the faith, highlighting the urgency and importance of maintaining doctrinal purity in the face of false teachings. The Unchanging Nature of the FaithThe faith was "entrusted once for all," indicating its completeness and the responsibility of believers to preserve it without alteration. The Role of Every BelieverContending for the faith is not just for church leaders but for all believers, who are called to be vigilant and proactive in their defense of the gospel. The Importance of CommunityJude addresses the "beloved," underscoring the importance of community in supporting one another in the faith and standing together against false teachings. Spiritual PreparednessBelievers must be spiritually prepared, equipped with knowledge of the Scriptures and a strong relationship with God, to effectively contend for the faith. Bible Study Questions 1. What does it mean to "contend earnestly for the faith," and how can you apply this in your daily life? 2. How does understanding the faith as "entrusted once for all" impact your view of Scripture and its authority? 3. In what ways can you support your local church community in standing firm against false teachings? 4. How can the metaphor of the armor of God in Ephesians 6 help you in contending for the faith? 5. Reflect on a time when you had to defend your faith. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it help you in future situations? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Timothy 6:12Paul also encourages Timothy to "fight the good fight of the faith," which parallels Jude's exhortation to contend for the faith. 2 Peter 2:1Peter warns of false teachers, similar to Jude's concern, highlighting the need for vigilance in preserving the truth. Ephesians 6:10-18The armor of God passage provides a metaphorical framework for how believers can contend for the faith, emphasizing spiritual readiness and defense. | Contend for the Faith | C. Barry. | Jude 1:3 | | Contending for the Faith | R. W. Dale, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | Contending for the Faith | H. Raikes, M. A. | Jude 1:3 | | Contending for the Faith | T. Manton. | Jude 1:3 | | Contending for the Faith | Jeremiah Day, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | Contending for the Faith Given to the Saints | S. Otes. | Jude 1:3 | | Defenders of the Faith | W.Hansom, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | Diligence | W. Jenkyn, M. A. | Jude 1:3 | | Ministerial Courtesy and Love | W. Jenkyn, M. A. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | Adam Forman. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | W. Spencer. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | A. Maclaren, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | James Hoyle. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | F. Frew. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | W. Jenkyn, M. A. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | S. Otes. | Jude 1:3 | | The Common Salvation | W. Brock. | Jude 1:3 | | The Defence of the Faith | Josiah Hill. | Jude 1:3 | | The Faith Once Delivered to the Saints | John Bull, M. A. | Jude 1:3 | | The Faith Once Delivered to the Saints | The Study | Jude 1:3 | | The Faith Once for All | C. D. Foss, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | The General Character of the Gospel Scheme | W. McGilvray, D. D. | Jude 1:3 | | The Permanence of the Christian Faith | Canon Gore. | Jude 1:3 | | The Purpose and Occasion of This Epistle | T. Croskery | Jude 1:3 | | Writing | T. Manton. | Jude 1:3 | | The Christian Cooperation Desired in the Defense of the Gospel | J.S. Bright | Jude 1:1-4 | | The Letter | R. Finlayson | Jude 1:1-25 |
People Adam, Balaam, Cain, Core, Enoch, James, Judas, Jude, Korah, MichaelPlaces Egypt, Ephesus, Gomorrah, SodomTopics Agonize, Although, Appealing, Begin, Beloved, Cheer, Common, Constrained, Contend, Dear, Defense, Delivered, Diligence, Eager, Earnestly, Effort, Entrusted, Exhort, Exhorting, Faith, Felt, Fighting, Friends, Full, Giving, God's, Handed, Heart, Letter, Loved, Making, Myself, Necessary, Necessity, Needful, Obliged, Ones, Requesting, Saints, Salvation, Share, Strongly, Subject, Thoughts, Urge, Using, VigorousDictionary of Bible Themes Jude 1:3 1651 numbers, 1-2
5293 defence, human
5840 eagerness
5971 uniqueness
6214 participation, in Christ
6510 salvation
7024 church, nature of
7025 church, unity
7032 unity, God's people
7120 Christians
7770 priests, NT tasks
7923 fellowship, in gospel
8028 faith, body of beliefs
8208 commitment, to God
8236 doctrine, purpose
8354 trustworthiness
8415 encouragement, examples Jude 1:3-4 8237 doctrine, false
8484 spiritual warfare, enemies
8846 ungodliness Jude 1:3-23 6169 godlessness Library The Holy Spirit and the one Church
Our text suggests to us three things: first, an inquiry--Have we the Spirit? secondly, a caution--if we have not the spirit we are sensual; thirdly, a suspicion--there are many persons that separate themselves. Our suspicion concerning them is, that notwithstanding their extra-superfine profession, they are sensual, not having the Spirit; for our text says, "These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit." I. First, then, our text suggests AN INQUIRY--Have we the Spirit? This …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858Persevering Grace. Jude 1:24,25.
Persevering grace. Jude 1:24,25. To God the only wise, Our Savior and our King, Let all the saints below the skies Their humble praises bring. 'Tis his almighty love, His counsel, and' his care, Preserves us safe from sin and death, And every hurtful snare. He will present our souls, Unblemished and complete, Before the glory of his face, With joys divinely great. Then all the chosen seed Shall meet around the throne, Shall bless the conduct of his grace, And make his wonders known. To our Redeemer, …
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Manifestation of the Church with Christ.
The last time the world saw the Lord Jesus He was alone--all alone in death. But when He returns to this earth He will not be alone. His saints will accompany Him. He is the "Firstborn among many brethren" (Rom. 8:29), and when He appears again they will be with Him. "He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again, bringing His sheaves with Him" (Ps. 126:6). Yes, that blessed One who humbled Himself to become the Sower shall return with "His sheaves"--"Behold, …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return The Twofold Bearing of this Fact.
We come now to a point concerning which it behooves believers, particularly young believers and beginners in the study of prophecy, to be quite clear upon. Like the other two great Facts which we have reviewed--the First Advent of our Lord to this earth and His going away, and the presence now of the Holy Spirit upon this earth--this third great fact of the Redeemer's Return also has a double bearing, a bearing upon the Church and a bearing upon the world. The Second Coming of Christ will occur in …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return The Redeemer's Return is Necessitated by the Present Exaltation of Satan.
One of the greatest mysteries in all God's creation is the Devil. For any reliable information concerning him we are shut up to the Holy Scriptures. It is in God's Word alone that we can learn anything about his origin, his personality, his fall, his sphere of operations, and his approaching doom. One thing which is there taught us about the great Adversary of God and man, and which observation and experience fully confirms, is, that he is a being possessing mighty power. It would appear, from a …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Salvation.
Salvation is the song that was to be sung by the redeemed in that day. "Behold now is the day." Our salvation has come. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men." Salvation means deliverance. A prophecy concerning the Christ--our salvation--says: "He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound." Isa. 61:1. Christ our Savior came to deliver us from the prison-house of sin. In the …
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day Saved by Grace;
OR, A DISCOURSE OF THE GRACE OF GOD: SHOWING-- I. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED. II. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED BY GRACE. III. WHO THEY AEE THAT ABE SAVED BY GRACE. IV. HOW IT APPEARS THAT THEY ARE SAVED BY GRACE. V. WHAT SHOULD BE THE REASON THAT GOD SHOULD CHOOSE TO SAVE SINNERS BY GRACE RATHER THAN BY ANY OTHER MEANS. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. THIS admirable Treatise upon the most important of all subjects, that of the soul's salvation, was first published in a pocket volume, in the year 1675. This has …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 The Character of Its Teachings Evidences the Divine Authorship of the Bible
Take its teachings about God Himself. What does the Bible teach us about God? It declares that He is Eternal: "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou are God" (Ps. 90:2). It reveals the fact that He is Infinite: "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee" (I Kings 8:27). Vast as we know the universe to be, it has its bounds; but we must go beyond …
Arthur W. Pink—The Divine Inspiration of the Bible Links Jude 1:3 NIVJude 1:3 NLTJude 1:3 ESVJude 1:3 NASBJude 1:3 KJV
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