Bible Chapter: Jude 1
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Jude is one of the very short books of the Bible. Because of this it probably is often considered not as important. That is too bad. It contains some very important and necessary warnings. Within the lifetime of contemporaries of Jesus there was already false teaching. Jude describes them as godless men who changed the grace of God into license for immorality. The tempter is always trying to get people to deny what Jesus taught so they can participate in sin. They were teaching that it didn’t matter what you did after you believed in Jesus. They said that the laws of God didn’t matter since Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for sins. They claimed that believers have a license to do anything they want. This is completely wrong and very dangerous.
There are people today who are doing the same things. They are teaching that the grace of God is so powerful and sweeping that it allows people to sin and not be punished. Jude talked about God’s judgement. God WILL judge sin. Jude called these false teachers who allow for sin blemishes. He called them clouds with no rain. They are worthless. God will judge sin. This is a message the world desperately needs to hear. People today think God doesn’t mean what He says. They think Sodom and Gomorrah didn’t exist and reject the example of God’s judgement for their sexual sin. God is a righteous judge.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I must not presume on the grace of God. He judges sin and strengthens His followers to live a holy life. False teachers that Jude wrote about said that it didn’t matter what a believer does. Yet, it does matter. Jude wrote that these people follow their own evil desires. This shows that they had sinful desires and came up with ways to justify their sin. If a person can take away the judgement of the Lord, they can make sin acceptable. If it is acceptable, then it is OK to do it. But, that goes against everything the Bible teaches. I must always keep this is focus and obey.
3. How can I help someone?
Help people see the real message of the Gospel. Yes, Jesus is love. Yes, His grace is amazing. But, this does not give permission to sin. Another very important message that people need to hear is the word judgement. Our culture thinks there is no such thing as judgement and that every behavior is acceptable. That is one of Satan’s biggest lies. People need to hear that, reject sin and life in obedience to God.
Bible Book: Jude
Because the Bible is practical, here is an overview of the book.
Author: Jude
Type of Book: Epistle
Outline
Christian Greetings (1:1-2)
The Reason for the Letter (1:3-4)
A Warning Against False Teachers (1:5-16)
Their Doom Illustrated From the Past (1:5-7)
The Example of Unbelieving Israel (1:5)
The Example of Rebellious Angels (1:6)
The Example of Sodom and Gomorrah (1:7)
Their Description in the Present (1:8-16)
Abusive Speech (1:8-10)
Unholy Character (1:11)
Guilty Conduct (1:12-13)
Certain Judgment (1:14-16)
A Challenge to True Believers (1:17-23)
Remember the Predictions of the Apostles (1:17-19)
Build Your Faith, Pray in the Spirit and Remain in God’s Love (1:20-21)
Help Others in Mercy, Mixed With Fear (1:22-23)
Closing Praise (1:24-25)
Theme: Contending and Fighting for the Faith
Date of Writing: A.D. 70-80
Background
Jude identifies himself simply as the “brother of James” (v. 1). The only brothers mentioned in NT by the names of Jude (Gk Judas) and James are the half-brothers of Jesus (Mt 13:55; Mk 6:3). Though neither Judas nor James refers to himself as Jesus’ brother, others referred to them as such (cf. Jn 7:3-10; Ac 1:14; 1Co 9:5). It is likely that the brothers did not want to command special consideration as sons of Joseph and Mary and family members of Jesus. Perhaps Jude mentions James because James’ prominence as leader of the Jerusalem church would help to clarify Jude’s own identity and authority (see introduction to James and the NT book of James).
This brief but hard-hitting letter was written to warn true believers in Christ to resist false teachers who were antinomian (i.e., against the law) or libertine. This means that they took full liberty to do as they pleased since they did not consider themselves bound by fixed rules or laws. They taught that since spiritual salvation is a result of God’s grace (i.e., his unearned, undeserved favor and love), they were not obligated to obey even the moral standards of God’s law. As a result, they promoted sin without fear of judgment. Many believed that it did not matter what they did, particularly with their bodies, as long as they believed the right things. These were “godless men, who change the grace of God into a license for immorality” (v. 4). In addition, many of these deceivers scornfully denied the true and original revelation about the person and nature of Jesus Christ (v. 4). All of this false teaching caused division in the churches over what to believe (vv. 19a, 22) and how to behave (vv. 4, 8, 16). Jude describes these unprincipled men as “ungodly” (v. 15) and as those who “do not have the Spirit” (v. 19; see article on False Teachers).
That the content of both Jude and 2Pe 2:1-3:4 are so similar gives a more certain time frame for determining when Jude was written. Most likely, Jude was familiar with 2 Peter (vv. 17-18) and, therefore, wrote after Peter (i.e., sometime between A.D. 70-80). Some scholars, however, believe that the longer letter (2 Peter) incorporated much of the shared information from the shorter letter (Jude). This would mean that the writing of Jude would have been much earlier (in the early 60s of the first century). The recipients of this letter are not identified specifically; but whoever and wherever they were, they seemed to be facing similar issues as the Christians who received Peter’s second letter (see the introduction to 2 Peter).
Purpose
Jude wrote this letter (1) to urgently warn believers about the serious threat of false teachers and their destructive influence within the churches, and (2) to urgently challenge all true followers of Christ without reservation to rise up and “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints” (v. 3).
Survey
After his greetings (vv. 1-2), Jude reveals that his original goal was to write about the nature of spiritual salvation (v. 3a). However, he felt it necessary instead to write this letter because of the spiritually rebellious teachers who were perverting the message of God’s grace and undermining his standards of truth in the churches (v. 4). Jude charges them as being sexually impure (vv. 4, 8, 16, 18), compromising like Cain (i.e., the first murderer, v. 11), greedy like Balaam (v. 11), rebellious like Korah (v. 11), arrogant (vv. 8, 16), deceptive (vv. 4a, 12), sensual (v. 19) and causing division (v. 19). Jude declares the certainty of God’s judgment on all who commit such open and unashamed offenses against God and provides six OT examples (vv. 5-11) of the same wickedness. A twelve-part description of the false teachers’ lives reveals their ripeness for God’s wrath (i.e., his justified anger and punishment, vv. 12-16). In light of this, Jude challenges all true believers to guard themselves and to have compassion mixed with fear for those who are compromising or wavering in their faith (vv. 20-23). Jude concludes with a powerful and inspirational declaration of praise to God (vv. 24-25).
Special Features
Four major features characterize this letter. (1) It contains the NT’s most direct and dynamic passage of condemnation of false teachers. It clearly emphasizes for all generations the seriousness of the threat that false teaching always poses to genuine Christian faith and holy living. (2) It repeatedly uses triads—series of threes—e.g., three OT examples of judgment (vv. 5-7), a three-part description of the false teachers (v. 8) and three OT examples of ungodly men (v. 11) to make his points. (3) Under the full influence of the Holy Spirit, Jude freely refers to various written sources: (a) OT Scriptures (vv. 5-7, 11), (b) Jewish traditions (vv. 9, 14-15) and (c) 2 Peter, quoting directly from 3:3, which he acknowledges as being from the apostles, i.e., those personally authorized by Christ to deliver his original message and help establish the NT church (vv. 17-18). (4) It contains the most majestic NT benediction (i.e., closing blessing or praise).
Giving credit where credit is due. These informational notes about this book come from the Full Life Study Bible, also known as the Fire Bible. Don Stamps, editor. Originally published by Life Publishers.
Bible Chapter: III John
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
One of the most misunderstood and misapplied verses is verse 2. John wrote that he wished that Gaius would prosper. This word literally means to have a good journey. This is one place where having to read a translation (instead of the original language) can lead to false and out of balance teaching. It does not mean that God’s will is that all believers will be wealthy. Yes, God promises to provide and take care of us, but it does not mean that we have a guarantee of wealth. If God allows you to be wealthy, that’s great. But, it does not mean that the rich are more spiritual. God’s desire is that believers have a good journey through life and grow in their relationship with Him. Some will have a life of challenge, some will seem to have a life of privilege. Whatever it is, we must be faithful servants to the Lord.
A main theme of this book is the pride and arrogance of a man named Diotrephes. John said that he wanted to have the preeminence, he wanted to be the most important person and gain all the attention. He didn’t want to submit to anyone’s authority, (especially John’s authority) but wanted to run things. He was a dangerous man to the local church. Anyone who wants to always have their way and run things will cause problems. They will hurt the Lord’s work.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Be open to those who have a legitimate calling from God to give oversight to the Lord’s work. As believers, we are all in this work together. God has placed some people in positions to give guidance and we must be willing to listen and submit. I would rather be like Gaius, who was commended for his devotion to the truth and his faithfulness to God.
3. How can I help someone?
I can help people see the importance of service, of letting people guide who are called of God to do so. We all like those who are hospitable, and I can be friendly and welcoming to people. It will help them see who God really is.
Bible Book: III John
Because the Bible is practical, here is an overview of the book.
Author: John
Type of Book: Epistle
Outline
Christian Greetings (1:1)
John Commends Gaius (1:2-8)
For His Spiritual Health (1:2)
For His Devotion to the Truth (1:3-4)
For His Hospitality to Godly Messengers (1:5-8)
John Counsels Gaius (1:9-12)
Concerning the Bad Example of Diotrephes (1:9-11)
Concerning the Good Example of Demetrius (1:12)
Conclusion (1:13-14)
Theme: Devotion to God’s Truth and Hospitality to His Messengers
Date of Writing: A.D. 85-95
Background
John, one of the original apostles (i.e., those personally authorized and empowered by Christ to deliver his original message and help establish the NT church), again identifies himself by the title of “the elder” (v. 1; see the introduction to 2 John). This personal letter is addressed to a loyal follower of Christ named Gaius (v. 1), who was likely a member of one of the church communities in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). As with John’s other letters, 3 John was most likely written from Ephesus in the late 80s or early 90s of the first century. (For further background on John, see introductions to John’s Gospel and 1 John.)
Toward the end of the first century, itinerant ministers (i.e., ones who traveled from city to city) were commonly supported by believers who welcomed them into their homes and helped them on their way with material and financial support (vv. 5-8; cf. 2Jn 1:10). Gaius was one of many faithful Christians who graciously hosted and supported trustworthy traveling ministers (vv. 1-8). However, a leader named Diotrephes arrogantly resisted John’s authority and refused to receive messengers whom John had sent.
Purpose
John wrote to (1) commend Gaius for his gracious hospitality (i.e., welcome, friendliness, kindness, generosity) and faithful support of trustworthy traveling ministers, (2) indirectly warn the rebellious and prideful leader, Diotrephes, and (3) prepare the way for his own personal visit.
Survey
Three men are mentioned by name in 3 John. (1) Gaius is warmly commended for his faithfulness to God and devotion to the truth (vv. 3-4) and his exemplary hospitality to godly messengers (vv. 5-8). (2) Diotrephes, an arrogant and selfish leader, is denounced for his pride (“loves to be first,” v. 9). He had rejected a previous letter from John (v. 9), personally slandered John and refused to receive John’s messengers. He even threatened to excommunicate (i.e., expel from the church) those who welcomed and accommodated the messengers (v. 10). (3) Demetrius, perhaps the one who delivered this letter or a pastor in a nearby community, is commended as a man of good reputation and of loyalty to the truth (v. 12).
Special Features
Two major features characterize this letter. (1) Though brief, it provides insight into several important facets of early church history toward the end of the first century. (2) There are remarkable similarities between 3 John and 2 John. Still, the two letters differ in one important aspect: 3 John encourages believers to offer hospitality and support for trustworthy traveling ministers, while 2 John urges believers not to welcome or support untrustworthy ministers. His aim is that believers will not mistakenly promote false or destructive ministry, but rather share in the work of those who spread the true message of Christ.
Giving credit where credit is due. These informational notes about this book come from the Full Life Study Bible, also known as the Fire Bible. Don Stamps, editor. Originally published by Life Publishers.
Bible Chapter: II John 1
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Love is a major theme in Christianity. We often hear about loving one another. We know that God is love. We read that love was God’s motivating factor in Christ’s coming to the world. So, love is very important. But, love is also misapplied and misunderstood. Some people say that love means you simply accept all people as they are and encourage whatever it is they believe. To disagree is to hate. Verse 6 gives a different impact to the thought of love to show that many people are missing the point. Love is that we walk in obedience to God’s commands. And, there will be many deceivers who do not acknowledge Jesus as coming in the flesh. What I am seeing here is that love does not allow a person to change doctrine. If someone doesn’t teach the Bible as it was written or intended, it is not love to allow them to continue to do so.
John said that to encourage false teaching, to host traveling preachers who are not teaching the truth, to welcome them, is to be a part of their false teaching. These false teachers are perverting God’s Word and trying to gain a following for themselves. They are not building God’s kingdom.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I must be discerning about whose teaching I follow. Can they back up their claims with the Bible? Do they clearly teach biblical truth? This is a very short book, one chapter, only thirteen verses. The point of the book is to warn the church to be careful about the teaching they hear and support. I find it amazing that so quickly after the life of Jesus there were already false teachers running around perverting the truths Jesus gave to His followers. The battle is real and intense. The battle is for eternal souls. To walk in love is to reject false brethren and protect the genuine message of the Bible.
3. How can I help someone?
I can help people see the clear message of the Bible. Love is not a mushy acceptance of anything and everything someone might say. Love does not enable people to create life and teaching the way they want. We must be students of the Bible, seek the clear teachings it gives, and then apply them to real life.
Bible Book: II John
Because the Bible is practical, here is an overview of the book.
Author: John
Type of Book: Epistle
Outline
Christian Greetings (1:1-3)
To the Chosen Lady and Her Children (1:1)
For the Sake of the Truth (1:2-3)
Commendation and Commandment (1:4-6)
Past Loyalty to Truth Commended (1:4)
Love and Obedience Commanded (1:5-6)
Counsel and Warning (1:7-11)
Recognize False Teachers (1:7)
Resist Their Influence (1:8-9)
Refuse Them the Use of Your Home (1:10-11)
Conclusion (1:12-13)
Theme: Truth, Love and Discernment
Date of Writing: A.D. 85-95
Background
The author identifies himself as “the elder” (v. 1). This was probably a title of honor that many Christians used to describe the apostle John during the last two decades of the first century. It is also possible that John served as an “elder” (see Tit 3:1, note), or pastoral leader, perhaps in the church at Ephesus. By this time, he was advanced in age and had a well-recognized position of authority as the only surviving original apostle (i.e., one personally authorized by Jesus to deliver his original message and help establish the NT church). John had been one of Jesus’ closest disciples when the Lord was on earth (see introductions to John’s Gospel and 1 John).
John addresses this letter to “the chosen lady and her children” (v. 1). Some interpret this figuratively, with “the chosen lady” as a phrase that represents the local church, “her children” as a phrase that represents the members and her “chosen sister” (v. 13) as a phrase that represents a sister congregation (i.e., another group of believers). Others interpret this greeting literally as being written to a prominent Christian widow in one of the nearby church communities in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) over which John had spiritual authority. In this case, her family (v. 1) and her sister’s children (v. 13) would be well known among the churches in that region. As with John’s other letters, 2 John was probably written from Ephesus in the late 80s or early 90s of the first century.
Purpose
In the first two centuries, the message of Christ was taken from place to place by traveling evangelists (“messengers of the good news”) and teachers. It was common for Christians to welcome these missionaries into their homes and to provide them with added support for their ongoing ministries. Since false teachers also relied on this custom, John wrote this letter to caution “the chosen lady” to use discernment in welcoming traveling ministers into her home and giving them support. John warned the believers so that they would not, through ignorance, find themselves supporting teachers whose message was not consistent with the original and true teaching of Christ and of those he commissioned to deliver his message (as we have in the Bible today). In this letter, John refutes the same false teaching that he condemns in 1 John.
Survey
This letter gives added emphasis to a warning also found in 1 John about the danger of false teachers who deny that Jesus is the Son of God, who was born, lived and died as a real flesh-and-blood man (vv. 7-8; cf. 1Jn 4:2). John commends “the chosen lady” and her children for “walking in the truth” (i.e., being loyal to the truth of Christ and living by the principles of his original message, v. 4). He then challenges them to show their true love for God by obeying Christ’s commands and loving each other (v. 6). John goes on to say that Christian love must wisely judge between truth and error and not provide an open door to false teachers (vv. 7-9). To welcome false teachers is to participate in their deception and share their guilt (vv. 10-11). The letter is brief because John plans soon to visit the lady “face to face” (v. 12).
Special Features
Three major features characterize this letter. (1) It is the shortest book in the NT. (2) It is strikingly similar to 1 and 3 John in its message, vocabulary and simple writing style. (3) It provides an important balance to the message of 3 John (which encourages supporting faithful ministers and missionaries) by advising caution concerning the support of ministers not known by or belonging to one’s own congregation. John urges church members to carefully evaluate teachings by how they measure up to the original teachings of Christ and his personally appointed messengers before supporting ministers who bring the teachings.
Giving credit where credit is due. These informational notes about this book come from the Full Life Study Bible, also known as the Fire Bible. Don Stamps, editor. Originally published by Life Publishers.
Bible Chapter: I John 5
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
What is a real believer in Jesus? What is a real Christian? There are several signs and the answer can be long to these questions. This chapter starts out with the statement that love for God and obedience to His commands shows the genuineness of belief. Real faith is expressed in this way. Jesus died on the cross to empower us to real repentance and restoration of relationship with God. He did not die to enable us to keep on sinning. The commands of God are not burdensome, for they enable us to overcome the world. Believers overcome the world. This is good news that we can overcome the power and destruction of sin.
We can overcome because we have the assurance of, the promise of God that we have eternal life. Look at verse 12: “He who has the Son has life . . .” John wrote this letter so the recipients would know they have eternal life. Believers can live with the confidence they have eternal life and can live with the hope that Jesus is with them here and will take them to be with Him for eternity. This also gives faith to pray and believe God for His answers.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Two different parts in this chapter talk about overcoming sin and obeying God’s commandments. Obedience is a sign of real faith. John said that anyone who is born of God does not continue to sin. They don’t continue to actively life a sinful lifestyle. They are living in such a way as to obey and please God. This is what I must always strive to live. In saying “strive to live” I’m not saying this is an excuse to fail, but I’m simply striving towards the goal. While I, or any other believer, is not perfect, there should be clear evidence of the change Jesus has made and is continuing to make in life. Since I know I have eternal life, I must live like it is true.
3. How can I help someone?
This promise of the assurance of eternal life is missing in millions who attend church, or who have a membership in a church. I have talked with many who know about the Bible but don’t have the confidence of salvation. Some say that no one can really know they are saved. Others assume that, since they are not an axe murderer, they are ready for heaven. The common belief is that everyone who is not a horrible criminal goes to heaven. Belief in Jesus gives us the assurance of heaven. This is what I want people to know.
