Jude Urges Apologetics

(2 Minute Read. 21Jul2021)

Is there ever anything more important to write about than salvation through Jesus Christ?

One of Jesus’ brothers who authored a New Testament book thought that at least on one occasion the answer was, “Yes!”

Jude recognized that often apologetic groundwork must be done before laying out the gospel.

Having initially intended to write about salvation, Jude instead felt compelled to urge his readers to engage in apologetics. He wrote,
Beloved, 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 which was once for all delivered to the saints. (Jude 1:3)

Jude addressed his admonition to those who are the called, beloved in God the Father, faith in the Great Creator God of the Bible against all challenges. and kept for Jesus Christ (Jude 1:1). By his words “contend earnestly for the faith,” Jude forcefully encourages his readers to actively and energetically defend

Jude is urging his believing readers to do apologetics. Apologetics is the defense of the Christian faith using evidence, reason, and logic.

For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)

Defending the faith with gentleness and reverence is a charge the Apostle Peter also places on every Christian:
Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence. (1 Peter 3:15)

The goal of apologetics is to support the truth of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16).

Why did Jude urge the need for apologetics?

Because Christ-deniers had infiltrated the church. Jude continued with a brief history lesson surveying past examples of God-deniers: Israelites in the wilderness, fallen angels, Sodom and Gomorrah, sinners, grumblers, and mockers.

Today’s situation is similar to that of Jude’s day as many deny the Great Creator, the God of the Bible. Many try to explain away His works using the false theory of evolution.

Never feel intimidated to defend faith in the Great Creator God of the Bible.

Always remember, a weak argument for truth is better than a strong argument for error.

Do You Get the Point?

Jude urges believers to contend earnestly for the faith. This requires courage, humility, and preparation.

Get ready today!

Questions to Ponder

1. What words of truth can you prepare to respond to an evolutionary comment?
2. What can you do today to build up your apologetics arsenal in defense of faith in Jesus?

Share your thoughts on these questions in the comments below. It could encourage or help another reader.

For Christ and His Kingdom. Soli Deo Gloria. Alere Flammam Veritatis.

This is the 11th article in the series on Apologists in the Bible. An apologist is one who gives a logical argument in defense of faith in God.
Read the prequels:
1. Elijah Does Apologetics
2. Peter Does Apologetics
3. Paul Does Apologetics
4. John Does Apologetics
5. Jesus Does Apologetics
6. Job Gets a Dose of Apologetics
7. Matthew Does Apologetics with a Sword
8. David Does Apologetics with a Sling
9. Luke Does Apologetics with a Pen (with video)
10. Moses Does Apologetics with Plagues

Read the sequel:
12. Man Born Blind Does Apologetics

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©William T. Pelletier, Ph.D.
“contending earnestly for the faith”
“destroying speculations against the knowledge of God”
“for the defense of the gospel”
(Jude 1:3; 2 Cor 10:5; Phil 1:16)
Wednesday July 21, 2021 A.D.

Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence. (1 Peter 3:15)

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