Scripture Reading: Jude 1:1-25, Isaiah 5:18-20, 1 Timothy 6:12-14
This Is the New Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. As we read, we’ll gain a broader understanding of the redemptive story of Scripture. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we will finish reading the General Epistles and move on to Apocalyptic Literature.
The Book of Jude: Possibly written by the brother of Jesus and James, the book of Jude urges readers to steward their influence within the church by contending for the faith, remaining vigilant against heresy and maintaining their unity by remembering their shared salvation in Christ.
How Jude Fits into the Story: The letter of Jude has often been overlooked by New Testament scholars because of its short length. However, its message is relevant to believers of every era. Jude sought to protect Christian truth and strongly opposed heretics who threatened the faith, and he called his readers to be just as passionate in their defense of the gospel.
Reflection Questions:
1. Based on today’s reading in Jude, what are specific things we can do to remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel in the midst of persecution?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
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57 thoughts on "Jude"
Reflection Questions:
1. Based on today’s reading in Jude, what are specific things we can do to remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel in the midst of persecution?
Watch out for people who distract you from your faith. Stay in the word, keep the faith.
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Keep the faith. Protect yourself by staying in the gospel.
I spent some time diving into more information on the Archangel Michael after today’s reading. Interesting stuff. He seems to be the warrior angel. I remember a unit of studying angels when I was in seminary, but I couldn’t remember the specifics about Michael. I appreciated the reminder that Michael shows us not to try to fight demons ourselves, but to rely on God to fight those battles. GotQuestions said, “believers should rely on God’s power and authority in the face of demonic opposition. It is the Lord alone who has authority over Satan. … The Lord’s rebuke is not only a rebuff against the devil but is also a declaration of God’s supreme authority. Hence, Michael’s deference to the Lord’s authority models a posture that all believers should emulate in the face of spiritual warfare. As we contend with evil spiritual forces, may we never forget that victory comes not through our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord.”
We definitely need the full armor of God in today’s world, and to remember that The Lord Himself fights these spiritual battles for us.
Yes! I kind of love the power and responsibility that God gives the angels. Like, I always thought it was Jesus who bound up Satan for a thousand years…but it’s actually an angel. (See revelation 20:1-2.) I love that Jesus doesn’t even need to fight him, he just sends an angel!
Hi shes, i woke up in a terrible headache. Half a day passed and it got worse. I wanted to cry. I would appreciate your prayers. Thank you.
I’m praying for you, Mercy.
Lord, please put Your Hand of Healing on Mercy now, and bring sweet relief from this terrible headache. Thank you for being with her, and healing her. In Jesus’Name, Amen
Praying for you right now Mercy
We can stay faithful to Jesus and the faith by staying in the Word, knowing the Word, stay in prayer, keep our eyes on Jesus. Don’t let anyone come against what we know to be the truth of the Word!
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Based on Jude 20–23, to remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel, one can actively build up faith by deeply studying God’s Word and praying in the Holy Spirit to rely on divine strength instead of our own willpower. Jude says to maintain an eternal view and trust in the mercy of Jesus to avoid growing discouraged surroundings and circumstances. Instead of retreating in fear, we can stay present in faith community by showing mercy to those who doubt and rescuing others from spiritual danger. Turn trial into an opportunity to boldly protect and share the gospel.
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According to Jude…Question 1 can be answered in verse 20 as:
Building ourselves up in Holy faith (Read Scripture!)
Praying in the HOLY SPIRIT
Keeping ourselves in the love of God
Depend on the mercy of Jesus Christ
Practice mercy with fear to those who doubt
I like the PRAY in the HOLY SPIRIT, because thinking about them not having the written new testament we do? They had to receive it from the Spirit, in faith, and from the apostles and what they knew about God.
“keeping ourselves in the love of God..” A-MEN! Remembering He LOVES us changes our attitude and passions!
This stood out to me today. I read several takes on those verses but I want to share these:
Verses 9 and 10-
WARREN WIERSBE NKJV STUDY BIBLE:
“Michael did not rebuke Satan but left that to the Lord. It is dangerous for God’s people to confront Satan directly and to argue with him, because he is much stronger than we are. If an archangel is careful about the way he deals with the devil, how much more cautious ought we to be? Yes, we share in the victory of Christ, but we must not be presumptuous. Satan is a dangerous enemy; so when we resist him, we must be alert and vigilant (1 Pet. 5:8, 9).”
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NKJV ENDURING WORD STUDY BIBLE:
“Michael did not mock or accuse the devil. God hasn’t called us to judge the devil, to condemn the devil, to mock him or accuse him, but to battle against him in the name of the Lord.”
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
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SUSAN BONNER- So thankful you and Tom are safely home! There’s nothing like sleeping in your own bed! Prayers for Tom’s referral to speed through the red tape and prayers for safety in your son’s return flight. Thank you for the update! ❤
“Contend for the Faith!” Action. Awareness. Fighting for, speaking for, standing for! Our culture, at least, will belittle us, at worse will try to wipe us out. Why, because it makes them see the wrong in their lifestyle. It magnifies their sins, and then makes them feel ashamed. We have to take a stand for what we know and believe in, and we also have to be diligent to not let false preachers and deceivers come in like yeast. The can and will destroy the whole batch. Stand guard and be watchmen. Be prayerful and asking for wisdom and discernment. Always making choices that keep us on the path of righteousness and truth. For the way is narrow, and has a gate for the saints to enter.
Praying we stay rooted and grounded, by reading the word actively and passionatly and vigorously! That we love the Lord God our Savior Jesus Christ with all of our mind, soul, and heart! Filling each day with his mercy and goodness. Surrendering daily to his will, and giving up anything that takes the place of him. It is not for the weary or weak, it is for the faithful.
I have lots of heaviness on my heart today. The loss of my niece and the way she took her own life so violently, it often replays, and if for me- I’m sure for my sister, her husband and my nephew that were all actively there. My nephew holding her waiting for the ambulance must give him so much weariness–please pray for them. That God will comfort and give them peace that surpasses all understanding. And that my nephew and bil will find salvation. And my nephew in prison..this is in the same family. It’s a lot for my sister.
Praying for you Mercy today. The what it’s are so hard, and I don’t want that momma to face all the same heartbreaking challenges. I have a 13 and 14 year old granddaughters. I was shocked with the “first day of school” picture I recieved this morning. She had on bootie shorts and tight middrift shirt for 8th grade!! I almost fainted, lol. They have no modesty..and she looks like she is 17. All they are fighting of the world’s image is sad. We are in a fight for our youth big time—
Lots of love to ya’ll, my She’s, and all that we face every day! BUT GOD—Firm foundation, rooted and grounded, every day-
Praying for your sister, brother-in-law and nephew and the vision they hold of that tragic day. May God bring them peace in the midst of their pain. And praying for you and the rest of the family in your grief. Grief of any kind is hard. But grief from suicide has its own type of pain. I pray you all feel God’s love and Presence as you walk this road. I love you, Sister. ❤️
(heart) Thank you so much for that friend. Love you too.
Stay in love with God!! ❤️
My mind went to the recent, harsh attacks on homeschooling. I homeschool my 2 children, not because I originally intended to, but because I felt the Lord asking me to do so. I was a public school teacher before kids, and I understand the need for public education as well. Anyway, the readings today reminded me that in the end times, people will call good things evil and evil things good.
Oh I applaud you! I have said many times recently that if we could at least skip middle school— so many things go wrong there! And I just commented in my post about how my 13 year old dressed for first day of school today!! It is an upside down world for sure. Used to not be so evident. I am SO THANKFUL that we have good teachers that stay in the fight!! Don’t know how you do it and praying for all of you as school starts!
I am just catching up on the last few days and had to comment to:
@Teresa – thank you for your willingness to share and be vulnerable. In the 3 years I have been doing SRT, your comments and prayers have been a constant source of strength for me and others. You have been faithful to show up even in the midst of suffering, depression, doubt. That says a lot about your walk with Christ!
I know when I am feeling anxious or depressed, I am vulnerable to attacks on my mind and the enemy can easily convince me that I am unworthy, God doesn’t love me, I’m not doing enough. He is a liar! You are a child of God, you are saved by grace, not works, and there is nothing that can separate you from that. Not even you not attending a church – although I pray that you do and find a nice group of women who will love and encourage you! Don’t give the enemy a seat at your table Teresa!
1 Peter 5:8-9 8 Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour.
Your sisters here all love you and are surely praying for you!
Yes, agree!
Thank you so much, Tami. Your words touched my heart. You’re right about the devil prowling around looking for someone to devour. I’m afraid there are times I make myself vulnerable to him by not staying in God’s Word like I should. And I would love to find a church home again. Thank you again. ❤️
They blaspheme because they don’t understand. Help me, Jesus, to help others understand.
We are to build ourselves up in our faith praying in the Holy Spirit. Keep ourselves in the love of God! Wait expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. And have mercy on others, but with fear.
Such a good day of reading!
Good morning! Responding to Reflection question one: remaining consistent in reading the Bible every day, prayer, sticking close and listening to women who also stay close to God and pray. I have a friend who says “connection is key!” ❤️
Amen!! “Connection is Key!” We have to stay connected to God everyday, every hour! I find keeping my radio on Christian music/talk keeps me centered all day on Him! Been doing that for 25 years! An easy way besides the other disciplines! But we spend time where our passion is! Do we have a passion to have a growing relationship with the Lord?!
Good morning sweet She’s. I haven’t read JUDE yet, but will sometime later this morning as here shortly Alyssa and I will be driving Cal State University of Monterey. This day came to soon. Please pray for safe travels as my car will be heavy. For Alyssa’s heart. My heart. Caleb’s heart. Caleb is meeting us there to help with move-in. This day came way too soon.!
Prayers for you, Alyssa, and Caleb and for safe travels for all
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I know it’s heavy…but exciting!! It will be so good for her to become more independent! You are just a call/video away!! My poor madre rarely heard from me, lol! Wishing and praying for a great day..and hugs for the way home! Hopefully I will get pics from you! :))
Letting our kids go back to college is hard. I remember those days well with my daughter. The first year, I cried all the way home. But each year became easier as I knew she’d stay in touch. Now, she’s saying bye to her college age kids. My grandson leaves Tuesday for his junior year. There’s a family dinner tomorrow night. I’m praying that God has given you a good day with your kids moving in, and you have a safe trip home. May He give you peace, knowing He is with both of them, as well as you. I pray He blesses your momma heart with comfort. ❤️
So difficult. I’m not sure that a Momma’s heart is ever ready. Hugs❤️
What are specific things we can do to remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel?
A great start is right here, SRT and all of you. I learn so much from you all.
Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Jude 20-22 The Message
20-21 But you, dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God’s love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!
22-23 Go easy on those who hesitate in the faith. Go after those who take the wrong way. Be tender with sinners, but not soft on sin. The sin itself stinks to high heaven.
The Message version is great. Sin stinks to high heaven!
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Love that version!!
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Lord, protect us from the darts of Satan- help us to discern truth from error. Give us a nudge in our hearts when we are being led the wrong way. Help us to remain in your love and in the purity of your Holy Spirit.
Amen! ❤️
Amen!
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Remaining faithful takes action on our part, we must build ourselves up in the faith and pray without ceasing. How do I build myself in the faith? Be a student of the Word, be a prayer warrior and love like God does – my love in harmony with His.
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There will always be those who try to pervert the gospel therefore we must be well equipped with the armor of God so that we can successfully contend (diligent, hard work) for the faith. Since the fall, there has always been the battle between good and evil, darkness and light, the bitter and the sweet – and there always will be until Jesus comes again. Therefore we must always strive to build ourselves up in the faith and pray without ceasing.
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@Susan Bonner – praise God you and Tom are finally home – and what a welcome, such a blessing!
@Mercy – praying for you as you pray over Jenny. May God break the chains that bind her to the darkness!
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Happy Thursday She’s – praying for all your requests. Shalom Shalom!
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More Scripture selections that could have been written today, Jude and Isaiah 5:20:
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
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Praying we stay alert and aren’t deceived by swirling lies or the lure of compromise, which brings James 1:14-15 to mind again: 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
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Jude 1:20-21
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
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Love the encouragement in 1 Timothy.
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SUSAN BONNER ❤️ praise and thanks to our gracious Lord for your safe return! Such joy being home brings. Praying for a cardiologist appointment to come through quickly, that they will understand this is a patient that needs attention and oversight.
MERCY ❤️ your words, a powerful definition of loving others as ourselves. My heart and mind go into fix-it mode when I see a need, but your interpretation of ‘as yourself’ got my attention. Am I really seeing others and their needs? Or am I only seeing what I ’think’ I can fix???
Lord, please go ahead of Mercy and bind every bit and type of darkness in this home, in this bedroom, in Jenny’s thoughts. Please give Mercy the compassion, insight, wisdom, guidance and clarity needed as she ministers to Jenny, that this young girl’s heart and mind will open to You through the truth that Mercy shares. May Your powerful presence be felt in this ministry today. Amen.
TRACI GENDRON ❤️ may the unbelievers you encounter see the love of Jesus in you. Praying for all our family members that aren’t saved.
SHARON JERSEY GIRL ❤️ praying for VBS, great explanation/confirmation of redemption
KIM ❤️❤️❤️
TAYLOR HITE ❤️
MELISSA VANDIVER ❤️ praying for needed wisdom in raising these boys!
LANIE H ❤️
MICHELLE P ❤️
B ❤️
CEE GEE ❤️ I love your description of your boys yesterday, ‘3 amazing adult sons’
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We can stay away from false or deceptive teachings to remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel, even in the midst of persecution. We know what is false by careful study of the Truth.
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Today’s reading shows that my redemption journey requires diligence on my part, holding firmly to the gospel as delivered by Jesus and taught by the apostles.
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MERCY – praying the power of the Spirit fills you today and that He brings deliverance to Jenny.
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SUSAN BONNER ♥️
Amen ❤️
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Jude encourages us to remember the gospel, to practice love towards one another, and to pray as we seek to be faithful in the midst of persecution. God’s work of redemption reminds us that we are never alone, we were bought and cleansed, adopted into the family of God, and because of Christ’s great work in us, He will help us remain faithful to the end!
Amen❤️
To you my SRT sisters, who have been called by GOD, who live in the love of GOD, the Father and the protection of JESUS CHRIST:
May mercy, peace, and love be yours in full measure..
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My prayer for you all today, covered in much love and hugs for a GOD blessed day ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Amen, sister. Praying the same for you ❤️
And to you – the same! ❤️❤️
Amen! ❤❤
Amen. And the same to you, Sister ❤️
Thank you!
I’m praying for you too!❤️