Jude – The How and Why of Contending for the Faith – 2011 – Denver
The little book of Jude is seldom read, and rarely preached—much to the loss of the Body of Christ. Whereas today many messages and ministries are trumpets giving an uncertain call (1Co 4:8), this small book is a clear call to believers in Jesus Christ to enter the invisible war raging from the beginning of time. In the age-old campaign of Satan against God, the issue is always truth or deception (Joh 8:44–45). Thus, Jude confronts the deceivers of his time with the timeless truth of the good news of life in Christ, and challenges those who have received this life to “contend earnestly [struggle valiantly] for the faith.”
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Elijah returns from the desert and tasked by God with anointing Elisha in his place (1Ki 19:19-21). Elijah had tremendous courage, but is often put on a pedestal and obviously had failures (Jam 5:17-18). God empowers His servant, making a character out of something he's not, so that Grace is the obvious key. It's a privilege to pick a successor. Elisha was chosen by God; He named him to Elijah. The lord prepares His ministers (Jer 1:5, Gal 1:15). Elisha was probably the first born in the family. He was serving in the family where he was. Leadership is the highest form of service. You must be faithful in your own house to be able to lead the larger "family" (1Ti 3:4-5, Tit 1:6). Mantel is a symbol of the prophets office. Elijah takes his mantel and "cast his mantel on him". 12 yoke of oxen means a prosperous farm. Elisha asks Elijah if he can set everything aside - "Please let me kiss my father and mother, and then I'll follow you" (1Co 9:17, 1Pe 5:2). Elijah says "Go back again: for what have I done to you" meaning "It's your choice". Elisha threw a party for the family, leaving them with a celebration of leaving the things of this life behind (Phi 3:7). As Elisha walks away from the farm, he's joyful in doing what God would have of him. Elisha followed Elijah as his servant. Elisha is known for his service (2Ki 3:11) "...who poured water on the hands of Elijah". This is the example the Lord gave to the disciples when He washed their feet. The greatness of Elisha was the extended ministry of Elijah. How much have you learned to be a servant to reflect service to the Lord by serving those around you?