What Makes an Individual a Christian?

Faith

What Makes an Individual a Christian - Part 3

Romans 10:17 “So then faith [belief] cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

Hearing the Word of God and Believing God About Jesus Christ:

Jesus is the Son of God:

John 1:1-4, 14, 49

~ Jesus is God, Sovereign Lord, and the Creator

Verse 1. “In the beginning {eternal} was the Word {eternal Jesus; Logos}, and the Word was with God {eternally; Godhead}, and the Word was God {coequal, coexistent}.” Isaiah 9:6; Zechariah 13:7; John 17:5; John 17:24-25; Philippians 2:6; Revelation 19:13

• The Messenger of the Word is Jesus (Word of God incarnate); people are the hearers of the Word of God (Acts 8:15)
• This verse speaks of Jesus being the Second Person of the Triune Godhead (“Word was God”). Human minds cannot grasp the mystery. “Elohim” is the Hebrew name for God. It is a plural noun (“us”).  This is a broad study topic and one that will be, God willing, studied deeper in the future.

Verse 2. “The same was in the beginning with God {eternal relationship of Jesus and God}.” Genesis 1:1

Verse 3. “All things were made by him {Son of God/Jesus Christ/Creator}; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2

Verse 4. “In him was life {salvation}; and the life was the light {Jesus’ revelation of God} of men.” 1 John 5:11; John 8:12; John 9:5; John 11:25; John 12:46

Verse 49. “Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.” Matthew 14:33; Matthew 21:5; Matthew 27:11

Luke 22:70 “Then said thy all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am.” 

Mark 3:11 “And unclean spirits {demons}, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.” Mark 1:23; Luke 4:41; Matthew 14:33; Matthew 1:1; Mark 1:24 Acts 16:17

• Notice in the verse above that demons believe Jesus is the Son of God

Philippians 2:5-11 – (Gift of Jesus, His greatness, and His glory)

Verse 5. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” John 13:15

Verse 6. “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:” Isaiah 9:6; Zechariah 13:7; John 1:1,2; John 17:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 1:3; John 5:18; John 10:33

Verse 7. “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:” Psalm 22:6; Isaiah 53:3; Daniel 9:26; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 53:11; Ezekiel 34:23; Zechariah 3:8; Matthew 20:28; John 1:14; Galatians 4:4

Verse 8. “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Hebrews 12:2 (submissive to the will of God)

Verse 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” John 17:1; Hebrews 1:4

Verse 10. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;” Isaiah 45:23; Revelation 5:13

Verse 11. And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” John 13:13

Jesus, the Son of God, was born of a virgin:

Matthew 1:18, 23, 25:

Verse 18. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused {engaged} to Joseph, before they came together {consummated union}, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost {supernatural and miraculous conception}.” Isaiah 7:14; Galatians 4:4; Hebrews 20:5

• Mary was somewhere around 15 years of age 

Verse 23. “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call {or, His name shall be called} his name Immanuel, which being interpreted is {translated}, God with us {indicates the deity of the Son of God}.” Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; 1 Timothy 3:16

Verse 25. “And knew her not {kept her a virgin} till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS {Yehoshua: “Jehovah Saves” or “Yahweh is Salvation”}. Exodus 13:2; Luke 2:7; Luke 2:21

Luke 1:26-35 + 36-38: 

(Mary’s character vv. 26-30) 

Verse 26. “And in the sixth month {of Elisabeth’s pregnancy} the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,” Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18

Verse 27. “To a virgin espoused {betrothed/engaged} to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.” 

Verse 28. “And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail {rejoice}, thou that art highly favoured {graciously accepted}, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.” Daniel 9:23; Judges 6:12

• God refers to all Believers (born again) as highly favored in Ephesians 1:6
• Thought from this author: One who is truly born again is highly favored of God and should truly rejoice! 

Verse 29. “And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast {considered} in her mind what manner of salutation {greeting} this should be.” Luke 1:12

(Mary’s courage vv. 31-38)

Verse 30. “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.” Luke 2:52

Verse 31. “And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb {no seed of a man}, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” Isaiah 7:14; Luke 2:21; Matthew 1:21; Galatians 4:4

Verse 32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest {Most High}: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:” 1 Timothy 6:15; Philippians 2:10; 2 Samuel 7:11; Psalm 132:11; Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 16:5; Jeremiah 23:5; Revelation 3:7; Mark 5:7; 2 Samuel; 2:12-13; 2 Samuel 2:16; 2 Samuel 7:14-17; Matthew 1:1; 2 Samuel 7:13

Verse 33. “And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” Daniel 2:44; Daniel 7:14; Obadiah 21; Micah 4:7; John 12:34; Hebrews 1:8

Verse 34. “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man {am a virgin}?” 

Verse 35. “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest {Most High} shall overshadow thee {Mary’s faith gave her courage to obey God}: therefore also that holy thing {One} which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” Matthew 1:20; Matthew 1:21; Matthew 14:33; Mark 1:1; John 1:34; John 20:31; Acts 8:37; Romans 1:4

Verses 36 – 38: “And, behold, thy cousin {relative} Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.” 37. “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” 38. “And Mary said, Behold the handmaid {maidservant} of the Lord {she submitted to God’s will}; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.” Mark 10:27; Romans 4:21; Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17; Matthew 19:26

• The Virgin Birth gave Jesus a physical body like Mary’s (He had to be one hundred percent man to die) and received the sinless and divine nature of God the Father (Jesus had to be sinless - spotless - to be the final sacrifice for sin). 

Jesus lived a perfect and sinless life:

Jesus was one hundred percent God existing eternally with a sinless nature Hebrews 7:26

Hebrews 4:15 “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched {sympathize} with the feeling of our infirmities {our weakness}: but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Isaiah 53:3-5; Luke 22:28; Daniel 9:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 3:5

John 1:14 “And the Word {Jesus} was made flesh {became flesh/human; incarnate Son of God}, and dwelt {tabernacled (Old Testament)} among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” 

1 Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery {hidden truth} of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

• Manifest in the flesh: John 1:14; 1 Peter 1:20; 1 John 1:2; 1 John 3:5, 8
• Justified in the Spirit: Matthew 3:16; Romans 1:4
• See of angels: Matthew 28:2
• Preached unto the Gentiles: Acts 10:34; Romans 10:18
• Believed on in the world: Romans 16:26; 2 Corinthians 1:19; Colossians 1:6, 23
• Received up into glory: Luke 24:51

Hebrews 2:14-17 “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took {shared} part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;” John 1:14; Colossians 2:15; 2  Timothy 1:10

John 8:29 “And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” John 14:10; John 4:34; John 6:38

2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he {God the Father} hath made him {God the Son} to be sin for us, who knew no sin: that we {all who will believe} might be made the righteousness {condition acceptable and approved of God} of God in him.” Isaiah 53:6; Isaiah 53:9; Isaiah 53:11; Hebrews 7:26; Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 2:22; Jeremiah 23:6; Daniel 9:24; Romans 1:17; Romans 3:21; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Philippians 3:9

Jesus was crucified in our place and paid - in full - the penalty for our sins:

Matthew 26:28 “For this is my blood {atoning blood of Christ} of the new testament {New Covenant under Grace}, which is shed for many for the remissions {pardon; forgiveness} of sins {violation of God’s divine law in thought or act}.” Exodus 24:8; Leviticus 17:11; Jeremiah 31:31; Matthew 20:28; Romans 5:15; Hebrews 9:22

1 Corinthians 15:2-4

Verse 2. “By which also ye are saved, if ye keep {hold fast} in memory what {the word} I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain {without cause}.” Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Galatians 3:4

Verse 3. “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died {He was the substitutionary and propitiatory sacrifice} for our sins according to the scriptures {historical and prophetical facts};” Romans 3:23-26; 1 Corinthians 11:2; 1 Corinthians 11:23; Galatians 1:12; Psalm 22:15; 1 John 2:2

Verse 4. “And that he was buried {proof of physical bodily death}, and that he rose again {was dead, but is alive now} the third day according to the scriptures:” Psalm 16:9-11; Psalm 68:18; Psalm 110:1

• Jesus was buried in a borrowed tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea 
• Other Scriptures for Verses 1-4 above: Genesis 3:15; Psalm 22:15; Isaiah 53:5; Isaiah 53:10; Hosea 6:2; Daniel 9:26; 1 Peter 2:24; Psalm 2:7

2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” Isaiah 53:6; Isaiah 53:9; Isaiah 53:11; Romans 1:17; Romans 3:21; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 2:22; Hebrews 7:26; Jeremiah 23:6; Daniel 9:24; Romans 1:17; Philippians 3:9

1 John 2:2 “And he is the propitiation {expiation; an appeasing} for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world {all; completely; entire human race}.” John 1:29; Romans 3:25; Ephesians 5:25; Hebrews 2:9; Genesis 22:13 (not a mistake as a reference here; Just as God put the ram in the thicket for Abraham; God put Christ on the cross for mankind)

• Propitiation used in this verse means “atoning sacrifice.”  

Romans 5:8 “But God commendeth his {demonstrates His own} love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ dies for us.” John 3:16; John 15:13; 1 Peter 3:18

Romans 6:23 “For the wages {our deserving} of sin is death; but the gift {unmerited favor} of God is eternal life through {literally in Jesus Christ} Jesus Christ our Lord.” Genesis 2:17; John 3:14; 1 Peter 1:4

Jesus resurrected from the dead: 

The Resurrection is crucial to the Christian faith; it is when Christianity began; it proves the deity of Christ and God’s power over death. Acts 1:3

Luke 24:46-47 “And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved {was necessary for} Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:” 47 “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Daniel 9:24; Genesis 12:3; Psalm 22; Isaiah 49:6; Jeremiah 31:34; Hosea 2:23: Hosea 6:2; Luke 11:29; Acts 5:31; Acts 10:43; Acts 13:8; Acts 17:3; Acts 26:18; Micah 4:2; Malachi 1:11; Galatians 3:14

Mark 16:6 “And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted {alarmed}: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.” Matthew 28:25; John 2:19

Romans 1:4 “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit {Spirit} of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead;” Acts 9:20; Acts 13:33; Hebrews 9:14

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; (4) And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” Psalm 16:9-11; Psalm 68:18; Psalm 110:1

• Christ died for our sins: In our stead/place; substitution and propitiatory (Romans 3:23-26)
• He was buried: Absolute death
• He rose again: He was dead but is now alive
• According to the scriptures: Prophetically and historically Psalm 16:10; John 20:9; Acts 26:23

Quiz

1. How does faith come about?

2. Who is Jesus?

3. Why is the Resurrection important?

4. Name Jesus’ sins

5. Why is the Virgin Birth vital?

6. When did Christianity begin?

7. For whom did Jesus die?

8. Why did Jesus die?

9. Are you born again?

10. Who is the Creator?

The Seven "I AM" Declarations of Jesus Christ - Introduction

What is a declaration?

A declaration is an official proclamation, announcement, testimony, or formal statement.

What is a metaphor?

A metaphor is a figure of speech in which a term or phrase is applied to an object or action which it’s not literally applicable to suggest a resemblance to an object or action. It’s an analogy or comparison used in to help one understand more about what another is trying to say to them.

There are seven “I AM” declarations recorded in the Book of John that were made by Jesus and He follows up with profound metaphor for each conveying to us how He Himself works in our personal salvation.

Jesus said, “I AM” the:

1. Bread of Life – John 6:35, 41, 48, and 51

2. Light of the World – John 8:12

3. Door of the Sheep – John 10:7, 9

4. Good Shepherd – John 10:11, 14

5. Resurrection and the Life – John 11:25

6. Way, the Truth, and the Life – John 14:6

7. True Vine – John 15:1. 5

I’m looking forward to studying each one and sharing with you my gleanings!

Study References: King James Bible; Tyndale Life Application Study Bible – King James Version; gotquestions.org

Posted 07.30.2016 to “So Panteth My Soul” and “Scripture Walking” (Blogger)

Word Study ~ "Regeneration"

“Regeneration” is the act/experience of being spiritually restored to God. The most common terms used are “saved” and “born again.” Regeneration is a gift of God. It is an extremely personal occurrence between an individual and the living God of Creation.

Other terminology: New birth, restoration, renewed, reborn

The act of “regeneration” cannot be obtained through that of bloodlines, union of parents, or of a wealthy or powerful ancestry, nor does ascribing to any religion. It is not an entitlement. Man does not have the power through his own fleshly will to bring salvation (regeneration) to himself or give it to another. Man must of his own free will desire to be born of God (“born again”). Man’s heart is and “enemy of the spirit” and throughout the Holy Scriptures is shamefully and naturally corrupt. There is absolutely nothing man can do of his own accord that can merit the gift of salvation or “new birth.” All men are of one blood (descendants of Adam) being tainted with sin, having no influence on regeneration. Man’s blood is of no value for salvation. It is only through the blood of Christ, which cleanses of all sin that regeneration happens. God, through prescribing salvation by Christ Jesus alone, gifts this new birth “through His will, His own unlimited power, and boundless mercy!”

All that believe in the name of Christ are regenerated [born again/saved] and quickened [given life] by the Spirit [Holy Spirit] and grace of God [favor/blessing] partaking of divine nature and are made “new creatures.” This is the evidence of being a son of God [adopted by God through restoration/regeneration].

Therefore, those who have believed on the name of Jesus Christ have not become sons of God (born again) by the blood of their ancestry, nor by the will of a man and woman in sexual relations, nor by the desire to adopt a child; Nor, is it just knowing Him in their mind, but that of knowing Him in their heart – the most inner part of a person’s soul – and, that of God knowing that man or woman personally through adoption into the family of God through the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ who paid for their adoption on Calvary.

Scripture Passages:

John 3:1 “There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:”

John 3:2 “The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.”

John 3:3 “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (my emphasis)

John 3:4 “Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?”

John 3:5 “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (my emphasis)

John 3:6 “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

John 3:7 “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” (my emphasis)

We are spiritual beings. One of the great mysteries is that of having a physical body with a spirit living in it. Your body is not your soul or spirit – they are separate. The body will die, the spirit lives for eternity.

The result of sin has every person estranged from God from the moment of conception. We are not born innocent, but guilty. Adam and Eve were created in God’s image and likeness (Genesis 1:26a “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”) and enjoyed a free and sinless life, actually walking with God in their presence in the Garden. But, because of Adam’s sin of disobedience (he also took of the fruit to eat) in the Garden of Eden (Adam sinned, Eve was beguiled), all descendants (everyone soul who has or will be born) are tainted with Adam’s likeness (Genesis 5:3 “And Adam…begat a son in his own likeness, after his image,” – a sinful nature, also referred to as the “Adamic” nature). We are all guilty of sin and having our backs naturally turned to the living God and remain that way (*“lost” and dying) until we choose of our own free will to be restored to God. We must do this on His terms - His way. All roads may lead to Rome – but there is only ONE Way to have the privilege of seeing or entering the kingdom of God. “Regeneration” is of utmost necessity if one desires to enter and see the kingdom of God.

*“Lost” is a term to be understood in order to understand why “regeneration” is required.

~ Other terminology: Misplaced, disoriented, confused, missing, gone astray, wasted

Prior to spiritual regeneration man is misplaced from God, disoriented and confused regarding salvation, are missing and will remain absent from His presence, are gone astray regarding the need of their eternal soul for salvation, and will be wasted for all eternity if they do not exercise their free will and accept God’s gift of salvation purchased through the blood of His Son, at the urging (feeling that heart tug) of the Holy Spirit.

Christ Jesus was born into this world for one reason – to die – for you. He came to seek you out and to save you from an eternity in the Lake of Fire.

~ Luke 19:10 “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Parallel Comparison - Human Cultivars

A cultivar is either a single type of plant or group of such differing plants. We are God’s “cultivars.”

Even further than that, as Christians who have accepted Christ as their Personal Saviour – we have been separated out of the mass planting on this earth to be His particular and peculiar cultivars.

Propagation is a process where plants are replicated from a parent plant. Sometimes they are grafted to created unique specimens with specific qualities that can be multiplied and spread.

We are cultivars of Christ when we accept Him as our Saviour. We should graft ourselves to the Word and become even more unique and peculiar – not ornamental as the plant variety. Our ultimate Parent is God Who Himself has assigned the qualities of Christianity through His Son Jesus Christ.

The Book of Jude - KJV

Today's post is rather long and an all-day study; however, it is a full Book. I have expounded quite a bit. If you have thoughts, questions, or additional input please post in the comments section. 

The Book of Jude - KJV

Purpose: A reminder to the church to be consistently strong in the faith and oppose diligently heresy in the face of diluted Christian doctrine.

Jude's writing is against godless teachers with the desire, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to encourage and motivate all Christians to recognize the dangers of false teachings to protect themselves and other believers who have been deceived and bring them back into the truth. This letter from Jude is a warning to believers to avoid living a nominal Christian life with the false thinking that there is no fear to live as one pleases without God's punishment. This "letter" at the time written was probably directed to Gnostics who opposed two basic tenants of Christianity which are: 1) Christ's incarnation and 2) Christian ethics.

False teachers and leaders along with those who follow them while rejecting Christ's lordship, working to undermine others' faith, and lead them astray will be punished. 

Therefore, If you are a believer, it is a duty to staunchly defend Christian truth, avoid those who for their own purpose distort the Bible and truth of God. Believers should be genuine and sincere servants of Almighty God portraying the Lord Jesus Christ in words and conduct.

Regarding Apostasy: Jude is warning Christians. Apostasy is the turning of one away from Christ to false teachings. Be careful not to stray from faithful commitment to Christ. God will punish rebellion against Him.

Therefore, Do not allow yourself to be distracted from the truth as preached in the Bible by the apostles who wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. One is susceptible to apostasy who does not seek to know the truth in God's Word. Beware of false doctrines.

Authorship: Jude, brother of Jesus and James
- Jude identifies himself in Verse 1 as James' brother. In the New Testament, there are another four men by the name of James; however, most likely Jude is referring to the half brother of Jesus as recorded in Matthew 13:55; Galatians 1:19. Being so, James and Jude grew up with Jesus (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3). We must not confuse our author, Jude, with those bearing the same name. [Mark 3:19; Luke 3:30; Luke 6:15 ("the brother of" should read "the son of"); Acts 5:37; Acts 9:11; Acts 15:22-32.]
- Jude, like others in Jesus' immediate family, had a negative response to Jesus' ministry in His earthly days (John 7:5). 1 Corinthians 9:5 reveals Jude may have been one of His brothers who ministry was preaching. Jude was a renowned Jewish Christian (Messianic Jew) leader in Jerusalem who wrote with authority and assurance that his readers would listen carefully.

To Whom Written: Jewish Christians (Messianic Jews) and all believers throughout the world. Many believers were being mislead after being infiltrated ("crept in unawares") with false teachers of their day. Those false teachers were peddling messages of immorality (moral laxity), self-destructive pride, divisiveness, and theological error. 

Date written: Approximately 65 AD - Scholars have dated Jude from 40 AD to 140 AD; however, if indeed he was Jesus' half brother he would have written this book well before the first century's end. 

Setting: From the first century and continuing through our days, the church has been and is being threatened by false teachings and heresies opposing God's Word - always be diligently on guard.

Key verse: Verse 3

Key people: Jude, James, Jesus

Keep in mind while reading:
v3 Christians are to contend for the faith
vv 4-19 reject all ungodly falsehoods and immorality
vv 5-11, 14-16 remember the mighty acts of God's rescue and punishment
vv 17-19 warnings of the apostles
vv 20 build our own faith with prayer and reading scriptures
vv 21 continue drawing closer to Christ
vv 22, 23 help others
vv 23 hate sin
vv 24-25 Jude's conclusion and praise to God with his glorious benediction


DANGER OF FALSE TEACHERS (vv 1-16)
[Salutation - vv 1-2]
Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are 1sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:
1 perfect tense - Christians are once and continually "set apart" and "kept" for the return of Christ (v 21)
- Jude was James' brother. James was, like Jude, both leaders in the early church and were the half-brothers of Jesus. Mary was their mother. Mary was Jesus' true mother, Jesus' true Father was God. Joseph was James' and Jude's father.

2 Mercy unto you, and peace and love, be 1multiplied.
1 increased
- Believers that sought God's mercy and received His peace; refers to "inner assurance" and "stability"

[JUDE'S REASON FOR WRITING - vv 3, 4]
V3 - Judgment on false teachers:
3 1Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was 2once delivered unto the saints.
1 The word Beloved shows the relationship with John and his readers to be close as he wrote this letter urgently to them, exhorting them. The content of Christian faith is unchanging, unchangeable, and definite. 
2 once for all
- The relationship between correct doctrine and true faith is important. Here Jude emphasizes this. God Himself (through His Holy Spirit) inspired (breathed) the words of the Bible and His words must never be twisted, misrepresented, or manipulated in any way to compromise the real and true facts about Jesus and salvation. Those false teachers and leaders who conform the Bible for their own purpose stir confusion to mislead people over right and wrong causing blindness to the right and only path leading to eternal life (salvation). Jude encouraged people to return on the right path and see clear the way to salvation.

4 For there are certain men crept in 1unawares, who were ^before of old 2ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into 3lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
1secretly - unnoticed; 2 prepared; 3 evil, licentiousness, promiscuous and unprincipled in sexual matters.
^ "before the old ordained" - long ago marked out for; recognition that there exists predictions in the Scriptures of the demise and judgement of those who flaunt God's will. It is wrong to assume that grace means "no moral laws." It is ineffective in denying the sovereignty and eternal moral lordship of both God the Father and God the Son (Jesus Christ). [KJV Study Bible]
- Some churches even today have ungodly false teachers intentionally twisting the teachings of the Bible to justify their own opinions, poor ungodly behavior, and life-style. Their Judge will be God. He will judge those for tolerating, excusing, condoning, and promoting sin. This is a temporary freedom of false teachers/leaders who will learn it is fire they are playing with by having distorted God's Word.
- There are people who perhaps avoid reading and studying these wonderful Scriptures prepared and preserved for their eyes by the Very God of salvation. By refusing to study, learn, and apply correct and true doctrine, it makes for susceptibility to accepting false doctrines/teachings for lack of being well grounded in the Word of God. Through applying ones' self to diligence with the Bible one will recognize corrupt doctrines to avoid an undermined faith and an act of misleading/hurting others.
- False teachers during the first century (not to say those do not exist in our day) had a flippant idea of God's holiness and His justice. They went against God's teachings teaching Christians could live as they pleased without fear of the wrath of God. In Romans 6:1-23, Paul refuted those teachings. It is a bad choice to minimize "the sinfulness of sin" and neglect remembering daily that how a person lives has little to do with their faith. Showing deep respect for God and having a sincere desire to live according to God's principles taught in the Bible (His Word) will show truly how deep one's faith is - and it will show.


[DESCRIPTION AND WARNINGS REGARDING FALSE TEACHERS, BELIEFS, AND PRACTICES]
5 ^I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
^ I will - Jude is expressing his burden of desperate warning to readers; Christians should take notice and example of the Old Testament figures.

6 And the angels which kept not their 1first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved 2in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
1 original place with God - proper domain; 2 in prison

7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to 1fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the 2vengeance of eternal fire.
1 sexual immorality: 2 punishment
- vv 5-7: There are three examples of rebellion listed by Jude. These are: 1) the children of Israel who refused still to trust God and enter the Promised Land even though He had delivered them from Egypt; 2) the angels though they lived in the the presence of God and were once pure and holy gave in the pride (free will to do so) when they joined up in rebellion against God and were banished from Heaven; and 3) Sodom and Gomorrha whose inhabitants were so wicked and filled with sin that God rained fire and brimstone down annihilating the cities from off the face of the earth (presumed remains to be located under the Dead Sea - perhaps why nothing will live there?) How much the more will false teachers and leaders be judged of God?
- v7: I have heard others say they will not believe that God would send people to Hell. The Scriptures clearly teach that the punishment for rejecting Him and the penalty for not seeking forgiveness from Him holds the punishment of eternal separation from Him. Would God allow those who reject Him to remain in His presence for eternity? Those who reject, ignore, and rebel against God will face eternal fire.
- Often mentioned in the Scriptures is Sodom and Gomorrha as examples of the severe judgment and wrath of God in regard to sexual sin with emphasis on sexual perversion. Apparently this sin had become familiar with Jude's readers.

8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers  (R) defile the flesh, 1despise 2dominion, and speak evil of ^3dignities.
1 reject authority; 2 Majesty; 3 glorious ones
(R) 2 Peter 2:10
^ My study Bible indicates that perhaps the "dignities" here are probably evil angels. In Genesis 19 the men of Sodom insulted the angels of God and scoffed at any type of authority. There is a danger for insulting even fallen angels. (See A. 2 Peter 2:10-12)
- Jude describes the false teachers during his warning to the people. They were self-serving paying attention to their own desires, visions or dreams instead of revealing God's Word leading the people into rebellion against authorities into insubordination against angelic and apostolic teachings while openly criticizing both authorities.
A. 2 Peter 2:10-12: (backing up to verse 9) 9 "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly our of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: 10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptions are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 Whereas **angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. 12 But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption. / Dignities can very well be angels, most probably fallen angels or from the unseen world - all the glories. Whichever these dignities are, false teachers scoffed at the spiritual reality of which they had not understanding of. Satan's power should never be taken lightly. The false teachers mistook the fact that they thought they had the power to judge evil. In this world we live in today, there are many who mock the supernatural, denying the reality of the spiritual world existing just out of our eyesight while claiming only what they can see or feel to be reality. Satan and his supernatural powers should absolutely not be taken lightly nor should we feel arrogant or passive about his defeat. He will be destroyed completely by Christ. Note all around you that the evil one (Satan) is busy at work with all effort attempting to make Christians ineffective in their Christian walk and/or their witness and/or ministries and service. There is an all-out attack and persecution upon Christians in this world.
**Jude 9

9 Yet Michael the archangel, when 1contending with the devil he 2disputed about the body of Moses, 3durst not bring against him a 4railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
1disputing; 2 discussed; 3 dared; 4 reviling
- There is no other mention in the Scripture of this incident regarding the contention between the devil and Moses' body. According to my study Bible, there is a book entitled "The Assumption of Moses" (ancient book) that Jude may have been referencing.
- The Archangel, Michael, refused to be provoked by Satan as he charged that Moses was a murderer (Exodus 2:11, 12) and that he was undeserving of a proper burial. Moses had risen above this through his faith in YHWH (God) and had been forgiven. When a person comes into a personal relationship - saved (born again) - with God having Christ as his/her Saviour, God places all sin as far as the east from the west and remembers them no more. Satan has no power over a person serving the Risen Saviour.

10 But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they 1corrupt themselves.
1 destroy
- The false teachers were claiming that they "possessed secret knowledge" that gave them authority in teaching by having a mystical and beyond human understanding type knowledge of God. The truth is, God's nature is way beyond our human understanding. He, by His grace, has chosen to reveal Himself to us through His Word and through His Son, Jesus Christ. Beware of those who appear to have all the answers and that belittle that which they do not understand. Even though with finite minds and inability to fully comprehend God, seek to know all there is about the truth in the Holy Scriptures and what He has revealed for our minds, hearts, and lives.

11 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for 1reward, and perished in the 2gainsaying of Core.
1 profit; 2 rebellion
- The three men listed by Jude here are examples of men who did whatever they pleased. They are: 1) Cain - out of vengeful jealousy, he murdered his brother Able (the first murder committed) in Genesis 4:1-16; 2) Balaam - he prophesied to gain money, not out of obedience to God's command; 3) Core (Korah) - he wanted power for himself and rebelled against the divinely-appointed leaders of God. These three men all had something typical in common as do false teachers/leaders: pride, selfishness, jealousy, greed, lust for power, and a disregard for God's will.
- Cain was not in proper relationship with God. His heart was not right. Israel was led into sin by Balaam. And Core (Korah) led a rebellion against Moses and in so doing - a rebellion against God.

12 These are 1spots in your 2feasts of 3charity, when they feast 4with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; 5trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
1 hidden reefs or stains; 2 love feasts; 3 love; 4 with you without fear, serving only themselves; 5 late autumn trees without fruit
- In the day of the early church, before celebrating the Lord's Supper, believers would have eaten a full meal prior to Communion. The meal was referenced as a love feast or "feast of charity." This time was designed to be a sacred time of fellowship and preparation of their hearts to receive Communion. False teachers began joining in these love feasts. During a time when there should be rejoicing in the Lord, they caused "spots" which, in several churches, developed into a party of gluttony and drunkenness. Sins such as gluttony, drunkenness, selfishness, greed, and disorder along with other sins should not be allowed or tolerated to destroy the unity of the church and/or to distance people's minds from the real purpose for their assembling together. 
- "twice dead" is a reference to useless trees. Useless trees do not produce fruit and would be "rooted up and burned." So as unbelievers, they were referred to as twice dead.

13 Raging waves of the sea,  (R) foaming 1out their own shame; wandering stars,  (R) to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
1 up 
(R) Isaiah 57:20; Philippians 3:19; 2 Peter 2:17



14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
- Enoch is not mentioned but twice in the Bible, once here and in Genesis 5:21-24. 
- Jesus being mentioned as coming with angels (saints) are recorded in Matthew 16:27 and 24:31. In the Book of Daniel Chapter 7:10, he speaks of God judging mankind with ten thousand times ten thousand angels in attendance.

15 (R)To execute judgment upon all, and to 1convince all that are ungodly among then of all their ungodly deeds which they have 2ungodly committed, and of all their 3hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
1 convict; 2 in an ungodly way; 3 harsh things
(R) 2 Peter 2:6; 1 Samuel 2:3
- Ungodly is the description repeatedly used by Jude to denounce the false teachers.

16 These are 1murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh *great swelling words, 2having men's persons in **admiration because of advantage.
1grumblers
2 flattering people to gain advantage
*great swelling words - bombastic, arrogant language used by the false teachers and leaders
**they use flattering language to coerce people into getting what they want


CHRISTIAN DUTY TO FIGHT FOR THE TRUTH OF GOD (vv 17-25)
Exhortations to Christians
17 (R)But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken 1before 2of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;

1 in the past; 2 by
(R) 2 Peter 3:2

Warnings from other apostles about false teachers are given in Acts 20:29; 1 Timothy 4:1, 2; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 2 Peter 2:1-3; and 2 John 1:7

18 How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly 1lusts.
1 passions
- The common phrase for the time between Jesus' first and second coming is referred to the "last times" - which are the days in which we live now. We should keep our eyes toward Israel and the current happenings. Remember the apostolic warnings!

19 These be *they who 1separate themselves, 2sensual, having not the Spirit.

1 cause divisions; 2 worldly

*"they who separate themselves" - people who, getting their start in the church, are divisive and "schismatic" in nature using heretical actions to mislead others in the church to eventually separate their followers from following the apostolic direction. 

20 But ye, beloved, (R)building up yourselves on your most holy faith, (R)praying in the Holy Ghost.
(R) Romans 8:26, Ephesians 6:18
- When praying in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit, one is to "pray in the Holy Ghost." The Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Godhead (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit). Romans 8:26-27 tells us He prays for us; John 14:26 tells us praying in the Holy Ghost opens our minds to Jesus; John 15:26 tells us that the Holy Spirit teaches us about Him. Note: The Holy Spirit is the Person who convicts our hearts of our sin and points us toward Jesus Christ to accept Him as our Personal Savior. 
- Cling to God in prayer, building up to what is right in the eyes of God and renounce that which is ungodly and in error.

21 1Keep yourselves in the love of God, (R)looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
1guard
(R) 2 Peter 3:12
- The emphasis is to "keep yourselves in the love of God" essentially is to live close to Him and His people, deafen our ears and protect our hearts against listening to false teachers that want to draw us away from God.
- In Verse 1, Jude used the word "preserved" to denote God's role and ability to keep a grasp on those He has adopted as His children (those saved by grace). 
- Jude expresses his belief of the literal return of Jesus Christ as described in the Scriptures.

22 And 1of some have compassion, making the 2difference:
1 on; 2 distinction

23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment 1spotted by the flesh.

1 made unclean, defiled
(R) Zechariah 3:4, 5

- v 22, 23 "Hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" is a powerful statement from God. This indicates we should hate sin but love and witness (tell them of the saving grace of Jesus Christ) to the sinner. To some, witnessing comes through compassion and kindness. To others, witnessing is as if we are "snatching them from the fire of hell itself" (which in reality when one gets saved Jesus is snatching them from hell's fire). Witnessing is a matter of life and death that shouldn't be taken lightly. All unbelievers are in need of salvation no matter what position they have in this life.
- When witnessing to unbelievers compromising the truth is not an option. In reaching out towards the "lost" our stand must be concreted in the truth of God and Jesus. 
- For Christians a very important factor in keeping your faith active and vibrant is to serve others. Even when there is danger or immorality in the extreme Christians must meditate on His word, remember His love for sinners, and share the gospel truth with those that are lost.

Benediction:
24 (R)Now unto him that is able to keep you from 1falling, and (R)to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
1 falling - literally stumbling
(R) Ephesians 3:20; Colossians 1:22

25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, (R)both now and ever. Amen.
(R)Hebrews 13:8
- The word Saviour is referring to God the Father; however, the term is often used for Jesus Christ (Titus 1:4; 2 Peter 3:18). During Old Testament days the thought was that there was only one Savoiur Isaiah 43:10, 11) and with the early church's application of the term would imply (as is true) Jesus' unity with God the Father. The one whom Jude grew up with from childhood to adulthood is the One he placed his personal trust in as his own Personal  Saviour. My study Bible states that many of the ancient manuscripts using the words "through Jesus Christ our Lord" after the word "Saviour." Quite a tribute to the One named Jesus Christ.

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References:
2 Peter 2:10 "But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and *despise government. Presumptuous are they self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities." *belittle control
Isaiah 57:20 "But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt."
Philippians 3:19 "Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is their shame, who mind earthly things."
2 Peter 2:17 "These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever."
2 Peter 2:6 "And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an *ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;" *illustration
1 Samuel 2:3 "Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogance come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed."
2 Peter 3:2 "That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:"
Romans 8:26 "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession  for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."
Ephesians 6:18 "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints."
2 Peter 3:12 "Looking for and *hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?" *earnest desiring
Zechariah 3:4, 5 (Speaking of Joshua, the high priest, before God with Satan accusing him of being dirty with sin) "And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the *filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with **change of raiment. *sin, **clean clothes (representing forgiveness of sin - salvation)
Ephesians 3:20 "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,"
Colossians 1:22 "In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:"
Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever. (Note: immutability of God)

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Today's world certainly fits the descriptions given by Jude so many years ago. 

Dear Lord, 
Help me to be steadfast, contending for the faith, denying false teachings, studying and meditating Your word daily, learning about You and your precepts, and applying them to my life. I pray too that You will help me witness to others of Your great love and Son Jesus Christ in Whom salvation is found.
In Jesus' name i pray. Amen.