Jude 1:17-25 How To Build Unity In The Church

Jude 1:17-25 How to Build Unity in the Church

The Reminder (1:17-18)

“But you, dear friends, remember what was predicted by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They told you, “In the end time there will be scoffers living according to their own ungodly desires.”” (Jude 17–18, CSB)

Scoffers are in the fellowship. They follow their own desire. They follow mere fleshly instincts. They are not filled with the Holy Spirit. These same scoffers divide the church by their actions.

CONTRASTS OF PEOPLE IN JUDE

CHRISTIANS WHO KEEP THE UNITY
Called, loved by God (1:1)
Kept by Jesus (1:1)
Friends (1:3)
Saints (1:3)
You (1:5, 17,20)

PEOPLE WHO DIVIDE
Certain Men (1:4)
Ungodly (1:4)
Denying Jesus (1:4)
These dreamers (1:8)
These people (1:10, 12-15, 16)

The Remedy (1:20-23)

“But you, dear friends, as you build yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. Have mercy on those who waver; save others by snatching them from the fire; have mercy on others but with fear, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.” (Jude 20–23, CSB)

For yourselves (1:20)

Build your faith (discipleship)
Pray in the Holy Spirit (prayer)

For your church family (1:21)

Keep yourselves together (fellowship)
“actively” wait for Christ’s return (evangelism)

For your unsaved friends, family, and community (1:22-23)

Show mercy to doubters
Pursue backsliders and other sinners
Show fearful mercies to people stained by sin

The Redeemer – The Source of Unity in the Church (1:24-25)

“Now to him who is able to protect you from stumbling and to make you stand in the presence of his glory, without blemish and with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority before all time, now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 24–25, CSB)

Because of What He Can Do (1:24)
Keep you from falling
Take away fault
Bring you into the presence of the Father

Because of Who He Is (1:25)

He is Timeless
He is All-Powerful
He is Regal
He is Saving
He is Sovereign

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