There is a tension, a balance, as there is throughout the Bible between the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man. God’s work and our work. In these verses Jude is warnng us that we need to “build yourselves up” and “keep yourselves”. There is work for us to do.
Leaving God Behind
March 1, 2020 • Dr. Willy Rice
It shouldn’t surprise us that many in our popular culture now actively mock and scoff at biblical Christianity and biblical moral truths. Some people will reject God. Each for money, sex, or pride they will reject God’s authority over their life and believe they can do whatever they want.
Those who want to leave God behind will be granted their wish. Hell is when God gives someone exactly what they want. This is where the road away from God will lead you, unless you repent.
Falling Away
February 23, 2020 • Dr. Willy Rice
Sin is not new. There is no “new” revolution. The sexual revolution, like all sin, is ancient. It is the ancient lie that we can reject God’s natural and moral boundaries and live free of any consequences. The ultimate issue, when it comes to staying grounded in truth or drifting away from God, is always the issue of authority.
Contending For The Faith
February 16, 2020 • Dr. Willy Rice
In the first century there were false teachers creeping into the Christian movement. Their error was so severe that it threatened to undermine and corrupt the faith of these early Christ followers. Yet in some ways their tactics are so subtle that many miss what is happening right before their very eyes.
Jude wanted to write a letter about “the salvation we share.” His hope was to write an encouraging letter reinforcing the gospel. Instead he had to issue a dire warning to wake up the church.
This letter is timely for us even today. We are to contend for the faith. We defend it. We must understand it. We must be willing to expose and confront error. We must be alert.
