Contend for the Faith
From the early days of the Church the message is made clear;
whatever the circumstance, wherever we may be, for gain or for loss;
“Contend for the faith once delivered to the saints...” are the words that we hear.
Penned by Jude, one of the brothers of our Lord, this challenge still rings out today
As in the time of Jude the gospel message is being distorted by some
who claim that the Word of God permits evil practices under the guise of grace.
They rely on their self knowledge, rather than trusting in the power of God's Son
Denying the Sovereignty of our Lord Jesus Christ, having only a form of godliness,
Such are those we are urged to contend with, if we would honour the Lord.
We are called to show from the Scriptures how erroneous are their views.
As the Holy Spirit seeks to guide us into the understanding of God's Word
And by our very lives to demonstrate the power that is at work within us.
The ‘faith’ we are called to contend for is based solely on the promises of God
expressed in the truth of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus ,
for it is by grace we are saved..., the loving expression of the gift of God.
Only by repenting and trusting in our Saviour, can this Truth be fully known.
To “contend for the faith once delivered...” can often be an unpopular stance to take.
Speaking of trusting in Christ as the sole means whereby we can be saved,
appears to many to be intolerant in this enlightened age, and ought not to be made.
God will save all who try to live a good life; no matter what they do or do not believe.
While we wait for the Lord to come or call, we must respond to His call.
If we would be true to the “faith once delivered to the saints..” in the world today,
Living, by both our words and deeds, as those for whom ' the Truth’ is our all in all.
For our world still needs to know of the depth of God's gracious love in Christ Jesus
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