Surviving a Godless World: Lessons from the Book of Jude

By David Norfleet

In many emergency services like the military, police, and fire departments, training and drills are a constant part of the routine.  Emergency personnel are often training for situations they hope will never occur.  Yet, the true value of this preparation is revealed when the inevitable emergency strikes.  These professionals are ready to spring into action, relying on the rigorous training they have undergone.  In a similar way, the Book of Jude functions as a survival guide for Christians, preparing them to face the threats of ungodliness and false teaching that were encroaching upon their communities in the 1st century.  Jude’s letter, although addressed to a particular group of believers, is timeless and relevant for Christians today as they contend with similar challenges.

The Shift in Jude’s Message

Jude initially intended to write about the “common salvation” shared among believers (Jude 1:3).  He wanted to focus on the hope and joy of salvation, a theme that undoubtedly would have encouraged and uplifted the saints.  However, as he surveyed the spiritual landscape of his time, Jude recognized that a more urgent message was needed.  False teachers had infiltrated the church, spreading dangerous and ungodly ideas (Jude 1:4).  Jude had to shift his focus to guide the believers through a turbulent period, reminding them of their identity in Christ and equipping them to stand firm in the faith.

Surviving in a Godless World

1. Remember Who You Are

Jude’s first piece of advice to the saints is to remember their identity.  He uses a powerful triad of descriptors: called, beloved, and kept (Jude 1:1).  These three words are not just theological labels, but reminders of who the believers are and why they can stand firm in the faith.  They are called by God to salvation, beloved by God with an eternal love, and kept by His power through all trials.  These descriptors should not just be understood as designations but as life-altering truths.  The knowledge that God loves you, that He has called you, and that He is keeping you provides the strength and security needed to endure any challenge.  Jude repeats this idea throughout the letter to emphasize how vital it is for believers to remember their divine identity in the midst of perilous times.

2. Contend for the Faith

Jude urges believers to contend for the faith (Jude 1:3).  The word “contend” here comes from the Greek epagonizesthai, which carries the sense of struggling or wrestling with intensity—almost like being in an agonizing contest.  This is not a casual defense of beliefs but an active, passionate fight for the truth.  The faith Jude speaks of is not a collection of human opinions but the one true gospel that was delivered once for all.  To contend for the faith means understanding its value and its vulnerability.  Jude warns that this faith will face threats, from false teachers to external persecution.  But the emphasis on “you” in verse 3 reminds believers that, while collective action is important, each individual plays a vital role in guarding and defending the faith.

3. Do Not Be Caught Unaware

Jude emphasizes the importance of vigilance, warning believers not to be caught unaware (Jude 1:17-18).  The dangers of ungodliness, false teaching, and persecution are real and must not be ignored.  Jude calls Christians to remember the warnings given in Scripture—such as in Matthew 7:15-23 and 1 Peter 4:12—and stay alert.  There is a danger of either being overly paranoid, seeing false teachers behind every corner, or becoming so complacent that one fails to recognize the threat when it appears.  False teachers are not a thing of the past.  They still exist today in various forms: heretics, charlatans, dividers, ticklers, and speculators.  They may come with appealing messages or promises but often seek to distort the truth for their own gain.  Jude’s exhortation to not be unaware is as relevant now as it was then.

4. Look to Self

While contending for the faith and standing guard against false teachers is important, it is also vital that believers look to their own spiritual growth.  Jude cautions that in times of struggle and defense, it’s easy to become so focused on external threats that one neglects their personal transformation.  He encourages Christians to “build yourselves up in your most holy faith” (Jude 1:20).  This means continuing to grow in the knowledge and likeness of Christ, even in the midst of trials.  Spiritual growth should never stop, regardless of circumstances.

5. Look to Others

Jude also emphasizes the importance of looking out for others, particularly fellow believers who may be vulnerable to deception.  In the face of false teaching and persecution, Christians should not only be concerned with their own spiritual survival but also with the well-being of their brothers and sisters in Christ.  Jude calls for a compassionate approach, urging believers to rescue those who are wavering (Jude 1:22-23).  Some may need sympathy, others need a more aggressive intervention, and still others need cautious help.  The key is to meet people where they are, always with a heart of love and care.

Conclusion

The Book of Jude provides a timely and necessary survival guide for navigating a world filled with ungodliness and deception.  His instructions for believers to remember their identity in Christ, contend for the faith, stay vigilant, and look after both their own spiritual growth and the well-being of others are as vital today as they were in the first century.  Christians are called to live faithfully in a world that increasingly opposes the truth of the gospel.  As Jude’s letter reminds us, we can endure in this godless world because we are called, beloved, and kept by the power of God.  The challenges may be great, but the victory has already been secured through Jesus Christ.

Assemble

By David Norfleet

We’ve all heard it before: “Do we have to go to church?” It’s a question that many parents face, often at the end of a long week or after a gospel meeting. From a child’s perspective, the idea of skipping church for a movie or video game seems reasonable. After all, the logic might be that attending once or twice a month should be sufficient. While this viewpoint is understandable in children, it’s less acceptable when adopted by adults.

The question of why we should gather for worship is essential and deserves a thoughtful answer. Psalm 122:1 gives us a profound insight into this issue. The psalmist expresses joy and anticipation about going to the house of the Lord. The term “glad” here is more than just a feeling of contentment; it signifies a deep, rejoicing happiness.

In the Old Testament, God's people were commanded to assemble for worship on several occasions. For example, Isaiah 2:3, Jeremiah 31:6, and Micah 4:2 highlight the significance of these gatherings. These assemblies were not just ritualistic; they were vital to the spiritual life of the community. Leviticus 23:27, 35, and 37 provide further evidence of God's command for regular worship. The Israelites were called together by the sound of silver trumpets, as described in Numbers 10:2-3.

The New Testament also reinforces the importance of assembling. Early Christians frequently gathered, as seen in Acts 2:46, 5:12, 12:12, and 14:27. The instruction to not forsake assembling is explicit in Hebrews 10:25. So, why is it so critical to come together? Couldn’t we simply worship at home?

The Benefits of Assembling

• Focus and Refocus on God: When we assemble, we have an uninterrupted opportunity to focus solely on God. This time of worship helps us realign our priorities and redirect our attention to what truly matters. During the Lord’s Supper, for instance, self-examination becomes a natural part of our reflection on God (1 Corinthians 11:28).
• Spiritual Growth: Gathering for worship is crucial for our spiritual development. As we listen to God's word and participate in communal worship, we experience spiritual growth and transformation. 1 Corinthians 14:3 illustrates that worship edifies us, encouraging personal and collective growth in faith.
• Encouragement and Inspiration: Assemblies provide essential encouragement and inspiration. When we come together, we support each other through life's trials and triumphs. Ephesians 2:13-22 speaks of our unity in Christ, and the Swedish proverb, “a shared joy is a double joy,” encapsulates the joy we experience in community. God’s intention for us to be together is evident in Genesis 2:18 and Ecclesiastes 4:9-10.
• Proclaim Victory: Frequent gatherings are more than a routine; they are a means of spiritual warfare. Ignatius of Antioch, an early church father, noted that regular assembly helps defeat Satan’s schemes and promotes unity of faith. This concept is supported by James 3:13-18, which describes how wisdom and unity can counteract spiritual opposition.
• Awakening: Worship has a profound impact on our perception of reality. Life’s challenges can cloud our vision and distract us from what truly matters. Psalm 73:1-28 illustrates how worship can clear spiritual confusion and help us understand God’s ultimate purpose. The psalmist, initially troubled by the prosperity of the wicked, finds clarity and renewed focus through worship in the sanctuary.

The question remains: When the call to assemble goes forth, will you be there? Understanding the value of worship and community is crucial. Our regular gatherings are not mere duties but vital aspects of our spiritual health and growth. They offer focus, growth, encouragement, victory, and awakening. As we come together, we not only fulfill a command but also experience the rich blessings of shared faith and unity.

Success in Temptation

By Paul Earnhart

One of the most significant conflicts in the history of mankind was the temptation of Jesus, recorded in Matthew 4:1-11.  Satan did his best to cause Jesus to sin.  His approaches were cleverly devised so that there would be nothing immoral in his proposals and there would appear to be some beneficial result in everything he asked Jesus to do.  But Jesus was wise enough and good enough to see the error in each temptation and to avoid it.  Had He sinned, He could not have been our Savior, and mankind would have been forever lost.

What accounts for the success of Jesus in resisting the temptations?

• First, there was a complete knowledge of scripture.  Every temptation was answered with a quotation from scripture.  This knowledge enabled Him to draw from everything the scriptures said revealing the mind of God.  It also enabled Him to know the full context of the scriptures Satan misused.
• Second, His whole life’s goal was to do the will of God.  Every proposal of Satan, whether direct or indirect, was considered in the light of God’s word.
• Third, He was determined to do ONLY the will of God.  This is clear from the first temptation.  Doubtless His hunger for food made Him want to turn those stones into bread.  That would have been His own will.  But since He had no instructions from God to use His powers in this way, He refused. 

If mankind’s most significant conflict was between Jesus and Satan, our own most significant conflict is between us and Satan.  Despite the victory of Jesus, we still can be lost if we allow Satan to have control of our life.  Satan still tempts through the same avenues he tempted Jesus…through the flesh, through pride, and through the desire for things (1 John 2:15-17).  If we are to be victorious as Jesus was, we must exercise the same defense…a thorough knowledge of God’s word, a strong determination to do God’s will and ONLY His will. 

Star Wars

By Megan Berthold

As everyone was talking about resolutions in the New Year, I just couldn’t quit thinking about Star Wars. I am definitely a Star Wars fan, although this has not always been the case. I used to be one of those girls that would confuse Star Wars with Star Trek, not believing there was a difference. All that has changed now – I have seen the light (saber, of course). I can discuss with confidence the plots and characters and which episodes contain which events. What can I say? I’m a Mom of boys.

We recently saw Rogue One, the latest in the series. No spoilers here – promise! As we’re driving home, all discussing the movie, I became astutely aware of some similarities each movie share…more than each having the Death Star. And those similarities seem to translate easily to our walk as Christians. 

1 –  Rally Scenes. The comrades gather, a speech is given, hope is established, courage is restored, the forces are united to fight, the music swells and you get chills all over as they head to face their foe. In each of the rally scenes, there is a set goal, a definitive cause for which to fight, and they are willing to sacrifice for it. And although our lives certainly aren’t based on scripted plot lines, we are in a fight! Ephesians 6:11 tells us put on the full armor of God. Why? Verse 11 continues, “that you will be able stand firm against the wiles of the devil.” 

Are we willing to sacrifice for our fight? Am I willing to “sacrifice” fitting in to the culture around me, and dress modestly? To keep my thoughts and speech pure? To keep my eyes from the vulgar images about me (shields up we could say!)? If I believe in my “cause” as a Christian, I need to make sure my actions prove it. We need to listen to the “rally speeches” from the Word of God, firm up our courage, and resolve to go out and fight for the Lord, whatever the cost.

2 – Reinforcements. The good guys are being closed in upon, hope seems all but lost, and surrender or death appears imminent. But then, reinforcements come in and deliver the back-up needed and the day is saved. When plans are made, they are typically made as a team. Even when Luke flew to Dagobah to find and be trained by Yoda, he took R2D2 (see, I told you I know my Star Wars). Solo missions aren’t as safe, back-up is always a better plan.

The Lord knew we’d need reinforcements as Christians, and we’re blessed with the Church, with our fellow brothers and sisters in the Lord. We are each other’s back-up, to encourage and lift one another up. First Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to “encourage one another and build up each other.” Hebrews 3:13 admonishes us to “encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today’, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” We need to ensure that we are “backing up” those around us, but also, be wise enough to know we don’t need to be flying solo.

3 – Good triumphs evil. It takes watching the Star Wars series in its entirety to see the full picture, but the “Force” does indeed overcome. And unlike movie cliffhangers, we know life’s ending. We know God has already won. Sin and death have been defeated. There won’t be any kooky plot twist, or alternate ending. The Lord has conquered, and we have been given the opportunity to be conquerors with Him. But we must do our part. We must put Him on in baptism, follow His Word, and live faithfully. 

So join with me in resolving to rally up our faith and zeal for the Lord, in being better reinforcements for our brothers and sisters in the Lord (and being willing to ask for help as well), and in reaffirming our trust in the Lord that He’s got this. No extra “force” required. 

Who Can Be Against Us?

By Mark McCrary

It seems that a lot of Christians are down and out right now, discouraged by recent events in our country.  Let’s find a few words of encouragement from God’s word—Romans 8:31-39…

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: ‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Christian, have hope!  Trust in God in difficult days!