Jude: 17 But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. 22 And have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
Like Peter, Jude was concerned about the influence of false teachers upon this early church. Though they shared a common foundation of faith, they were beginning to be affected by their apostacy. People within the congregation were turning back to ungodly lifestyles, twisting scripture, and causing division, which steals the testimony of the church before the world. How should they respond? Avoid their lifestyle, do not approve it; but also have mercy on them and keep building each other up in the faith, praying fervently, and loving each other in a Biblical manner. Don't give them such sway over your reactions.
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