20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. (Jude 1:20-23 KJV)
Maintain Your Life with God
He exhorts them to remain steadfast in truth and holiness: “Build yourselves up in your most holy faith” (Jude 1:20). The best way to keep our faith is to grow in it. With a solid foundation of true doctrine and sincere hearts, we must keep building—carefully, using materials that will endure (1 Corinthians 3:12). True principles and godly lives will pass every test, even fiery trials. But if we mix in falsehoods or compromise, we may be saved, but just barely—like escaping a burning house.
“Pray in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 1:20). Prayer is the lifeline of faith. When we pray under the Spirit’s direction—in line with Scripture, with faith, fervor, and persistence—we are praying in the Holy Spirit (Romans 12:12). This kind of prayer is powerful and effective.
“Keep yourselves in the love of God” (Jude 1:21). Hold on to your love for God—keep it strong and active. Don’t step out of the path where God’s love and blessing are found. If you want to enjoy the comfort and power of his love, remain obedient and close to him.
“Wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that brings eternal life” (Jude 1:21). Eternal life is a gift of mercy, not something we can earn. If there’s any merit involved, it’s Christ’s, not ours. Our only hope is through him (Acts 4:12). A strong hope in eternal life will keep us alert against temptation and strengthen us to overcome sinful desires (2 Peter 3:14).
He then tells them how to deal with those who are going astray: “Be merciful to those who doubt” (Jude 1:22). Try to rescue those caught in sin or error, if possible. We are responsible not only for ourselves but should also look out for one another (Genesis 4:9). We must correct, encourage, and set an example.
This should be done with compassion and discernment. Some should be treated gently—restored in a spirit of humility, not judged harshly or arrogantly. If they show even hopeful signs of repentance, welcome them back. If God has forgiven them, shouldn’t we? We need his forgiveness far more than they need ours.
“Save others by snatching them from the fire” (Jude 1:23). Warn them of God’s judgment—some people need to hear about the consequences of sin. But even in correction, be wise. You may have the right message but ruin it with careless delivery. Don’t harden hearts by being overly severe.
“Hate even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh” (Jude 1:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:22). Stay far away from anything that resembles evil. Be alert to sin’s deceitfulness and protect yourself and others from its influence.