Faith Worth Contending For ~ How to Contend Part 3: Three Commitments We Make

In Jude 3, believers are called to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. This timeless message reminds us that contending requires more than recognizing false teaching; it demands intentional spiritual growth and faithful living. Jude identifies three essential commitments that enable us to stand firm in our faith in Jude 20-21.

First, we must build ourselves up in our most holy faith by understanding its fullness and allowing its truths to transform our lives. Faith is more than intellectual knowledge; it produces obedience, holiness, and fruitful living. Second, we must be praying in the Holy Spirit, relying on His guidance, strength, and presence while cultivating a deep, personal relationship with God. Third, we must be waiting for the mercy of Jesus Christ, confidently anticipating the eternal life He promises. This certain hope motivates perseverance through hardship, reminding us that Christ has overcome the world and our faithfulness is worth the struggle, motivating us further in our other two commitments.

((Audio Only))

STUDY GUIDE

1. Building Our Faith: Jude 20 instructs believers to build themselves up in their most holy faith. How is biblical faith more than simply knowing facts about God? What are some practical ways we can grow in our understanding of Scripture and apply it to our daily lives?

2. Faith in Action: The sermon emphasizes that genuine faith produces obedience, holiness, and fruitful living. How should our beliefs about Jesus influence our attitudes, decisions, and actions throughout the week?

3. Praying in the Holy Spirit: What does it mean to pray in the Holy Spirit rather than simply repeating familiar words or following a routine? How can we become more attentive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our prayer lives?

4. Growing in Relationship with God: The sermon describes prayer as cultivating a deep, personal relationship with God. What practices help you draw closer to Him, and what obstacles sometimes make this relationship difficult to nurture?

5. Waiting with Hope: Jude 21 calls believers to wait for the mercy of Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. How is Christian hope different from wishful thinking? How does the promise of eternal life help us persevere through hardship?

6. Facing Difficulties: Read John 16:33. Jesus promises peace while acknowledging that we will experience trouble in the world. How can building our faith, praying in the Spirit, and anticipating Christ’s return help us stand firm during difficult seasons?

7. Putting It into Practice: Of the three commitments discussed in the sermon: building, praying, and waiting, which one needs the most attention in your life right now? What specific step can you take this week to grow in that area?

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

Ecclesiastes 1:9
Jude 3-4
Jude 1
Jude 17-23
Romans 5:1
1 Peter 1:15
James 2:26
Romans 8:26
Ephesians 6:18
2 Corinthians 4:17
John 16:33

Referenced but not read
John 17