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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The "blessed hope" has the power to give us perspective, motivation and is the key to being transformed (Rom 12:2). As a new creature we can accept the attitudes and actions of this world bu we'll never be conformed. Transformation comes by the "renewing of your mind". We must "beautify" the word of God to the world (Tit 2:11-14). Virgin birth is the point of time when God's Grace appeared (Tit 2:11, Joh 1:14, Joh 1:17). Epiphany means "the appearance of God" is used for first and second advent (1Ti 1:10, 1Ti 6:14). Salvation came to man (2Co 5:21, Rom 5:12). General Grace instructs us -- it is multiplied to us when we study (1Pe 1:2, Tit 2:12, 2Ti 3:16). "deny ungodliness" is making ourselves that living sacrifice (Rom 12:2). Godliness is Christ in the flesh; ungodliness is religion (1Ti 3:16). Good without God is evil (e.g., Cain and his offering). Living godly is living by faith and is Christ centered (Gal 2:20) -- Christ living through us. Righteousness is a right relationship to God (Rom 12:1) -- to "live sensibly and righteously" (Tit 2:12) is godliness. "Looking for the blessed hope" (Tit 2:13, Psa 37:4). The return of Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of all His promises. Romance is the melding of souls, communication, and companionship (e.g. Eve "suited" for Adam). "Looking for" the blessed hope means "to embrace face to face" His appearing; this is the dynamic of the Christian life. Resurrection is the promise of His return. Hope is found in three views: "the blessed hope" (Tit 2:13); "living hope" (1Pe 1:3); "the purifying hope" (Joh 3:3). 1Co 13:13 shows that faith is bridged to love by hope. "Looking" is found regarding Simeon (Luk 2:21-25) the same as found in Tit 2:13. Simeon was "looking for the consolation of Israel". Promises (i.e., living in hope) escape the corruption in the world (2Pe 1:4).
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.