Our scripture this morning is Jude 1:17-23.
“But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ predicted. They told you that in the last times there would be scoffers whose purpose in life is to satisfy their ungodly desires. These people are the ones who are creating divisions among you. They follow their natural instincts because they do not have God’s Spirit in them. But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.”
Jude writes to the Christian community about staying strong in their faith and his teaching is still applicable in our lives today. We are told to build each other up, pray, and wait patiently for the coming of the Lord (v. 20-21). This is intended to keep us from falling into the traps of worldly desire that are all around us.
Jesus Himself was tempted by the worldly things Satan offered but He refused to use His gifts for selfish purposes, test the Father’s love or accept power and wealth in exchange for turning away from God (Matthew 4:1-11). In this passage we see evil using all the deception that had and continues to deceive humans. Indeed, we even hear Satan quote scripture, but perverting it for his own purpose (Matthew 4:6). This is a warning that evil will use any available means to lead us astray. Through it all, Jesus is unmoved and rebukes Satan.
We are offered comfort and strength through Christ’s example and the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. We are able to withstand the temptations we face through our faith. God knows we are challenged every day, but He is always with us, ready to help us resist evil and live into eternity.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for the many ways we fail You and each other. Bless us to go in Your love, sharing the Good News everywhere. Amen.