35 The Book of Jude (Jude1_12-16)
The Book of JUDE
Discernment in a Day of Doctrinal Danger
“Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints…” Jude 3
I. PICTURES of the Problem (vv. 12-13)
“The one thing that the spirit of tolerance in our day cannot tolerate is intolerance… because relationships have become more important than the Truth.” R.C. Sproul
“The greatest need in the church is for the gift of ___________________.” -A.W. Tozer
1. Hidden Reefs in your Love Feasts (v. 12)
The key words are “without _______” and “for themselves.” cf. 2 Pet. 2:13; Ezek. 34:8
2. Clouds without Water (v. 12)
The high “winds” of false doctrine are very _________. cf. Eph. 4:14; Prov. 25:14; 2 Pet. 2:17
3. Autumn Trees without Fruit (v. 12)
These false teachers did not bear “fruit” because they were spiritually ________. cf. Mt. 3:8-10; 7:15-20
4. Wild Waves of the Sea (v. 13)
This is a picture of ________ words & shameless deeds. cf. Is. 57:20; Jude 16; 2 Pet. 2:18
5. Wandering Stars (v. 13)
Stars can either lead or ____________. cf. Phil. 2:15
“It is in the church and not in the world that the devil does his most deceptive work.” Erwin Lutzer
II. PROPHESY about the Problem (vv. 14-16)
Enoch, being the “seventh generation” from Adam, was the ___________ one to quote about upcoming judgment even before the Flood. cf. Gen. 5:18, 21-24 – “walked with God” NOTE – The word “___________” is used 4 times in v. 15 and refers to an attitude of irreverence to God. (vv. 4,12) These men have _____________ spirits and impure motives. (v. 16) i.e. fault finders
Practical Application:
- Steady Diet (1 Pet. 2:1-2)
- Regular Exercise (Heb. 5:11-14; Js. 1:22)
- Personal Trainer (1 Cor. 4:16-18)
Appointments with God
Monday, November 1st
Meditate upon a Culture of Deceit:
- 1 Timothy 4:1
Check out a good study bible on the words “deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons.” Because we are living in the “later times,” pray for strength and wisdom for the Church to discern Truth & Error.
Tuesday, November 2nd
Meditate upon the Need for Maturity:
- Ephesians 4:11-13
Notice that God has given “pastors and teachers” to “equip the saints” so as to attain “unity” and “maturity.” Pray for our pastors, teachers and elders to best equip the body toward maturity!
Wednesday, November 3rd
Meditate upon the Fierce Winds of Deception:
- Ephesians 4:14-16
When it comes to maturity, we must not be children. Are you being tossed by various winds of doctrine? Are you growing in the Faith? Pray that God would soften your heart to His Truth!
Thursday, November 4th
Meditate upon the Problem of Fleshly Men:
- 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
Notice that there is a difference between “fleshly men” and “spiritual men.” Fleshly men cannot eat solid food. Ask God to show you any sin or pride in your life that is keeping you from maturity.
Friday, November 5th
Meditate upon the Problem of Spiritual Stagnation:
- Hebrews 5:11-14
Why do you think some people never grow in their salvation? How does their spiritual diet affect growth? What Truth from God’s Word is the Spirit nudging you to practice so as to grow?!
Saturday/Sunday, Nov. 6-7
Meditate upon the Longing for Pure Milk of God’s Word:
- 1 Peter 2:1-2
Notice that growth requires “putting aside” as well as craving something. Pray for God to give you a greater hunger & longing for the pure Word of God.
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