Contend for the Faith

Contend for the Faith urges believers to stay alert, build spiritual strength, and stand firm against subtle compromise in today’s world.

“While I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.”—Jude 1:3 NASB

Jude planned to write “about our common salvation,” but changed his mind. Instead, he said that his readers needed to “contend earnestly for the faith.”

Jude warned that the church had been invaded by people who had all the right characteristics, interests, and beliefs. But these people were actually “ungodly” (v. 4). Their hearts were not motivated by the love of Christ, but by the lusts of the flesh.

Jude said these pretenders “deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (v. 4). They cared only for themselves and were complainers, grumblers, and mockers. Their speech was filled with arrogance, and they flattered others “for the sake of gaining an advantage” (v. 16).

Jude pointed out that this same kind of situation occurred in Heaven when angels rebelled and again when the Israelites left Egypt.

We should “[build] yourselves up on your most holy faith” (v. 20) seek to grow in Christ and become stronger in our faith. “[Pray] in the Holy Spirit” (v. 20), stir up His presence, and tap into His power.

While exercising discernment, we cannot be judgmental but must be filled with love and mercy. Without compromising, we must seek to stay pure and abstain from anything that would pollute our lives.

Take Jude’s warning seriously: Be on guard … alert … vigilant. Contend for the faith.

Reflection Question: How are you actively contending for your faith in everyday life?