Jude 17-25 – Let’s set our hearts on being faithful to the end

Having shown the flaws and failures of the false teachers, Jude now turned to do something positive. He exhorted them to continue to live faithfully, although they had to encounter these false teachers. 

In verses 17-19, we are reminded to recall the warning of the Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. They had warned us of things that would happen near the return of the Lord. There would be mockers that would pander to their own ungodly lust. In referring to the last time, he would be referring to the end-time. These false teachers would cause division. They might claim to be spiritual but what they say and do would reveal their worldly mindedness because they would be devoid of the Spirit.

In verses 20-23, Jude encourages some positive exercises to adopt. The conjunction “But” in verse 20 provides the contrast, meaning unlike the false teachers, the believers ought to be different. Firstly, we believers should build up our holy faith. Secondly, we should continue to pray in the Holy Spirit. Thirdly, we should keep ourselves under the influence and sphere of God’s love. Fourthly, we should live in anticipation of the second return of the Lord Jesus Christ. Fifthly, we should be merciful and kindly, and assist struggling believers. Sixthly, we should help to rescue those who are being influenced by the false teachers and in danger of the judgment of fire. And to be compassionate toward those who are so entrenched in the false teachings, instead of condemning them. But as we show compassion towards them we must also be cautious not to be influenced by their errors. We should treat with scorn the garment influenced by the flesh. In using the term “garment”, Jude was referring to conducts that were affected by habits of the flesh.

Jude then concluded with a great doxology and prayer for the believers in verses 24-25. He assured us believers that God has the ability to help us to be faithful in the face of the threat of false teachings. The doxology in verse 24 is perhaps the most complete. It assures believers of their total security. This guarantee rests on God’s keeping ability and faithfulness. God will definitely keep the believers from stumbling and enable them to stand before Him joyfully, and having no justifiable ground for accusation. Finally, with a great exuberance, he extolled the glorious God.

Let us abandon ourselves to the only wise God our Savior, Jesus Christ. He has set the example for us to walk in His footsteps to bring honor and glory to God!