Are we allowing the Word of God to make us stronger?

Part 1 of a special 4 part consideration of the book of Jude~

The book of Jude is strategically placed in the order of New Testament books. It comes right before the book of Revelation. Even though the order of books is not inspired by God, Jude’s message is timely for believers who are living before the events of Revelation unfold.

Jude could very well be sub-titled, “How to Live for Christ in the Last Days.” For those who are truly serous about living for Jesus Christ, Jude first writes in verse 20, “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith.” Let’s just take a look at this phrase. Jude reminds us that we must take responsibility for our own spiritual growth. One of the best ways to build ourselves up is through getting into the Bible and then letting the Bible get into us. Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:2, “And yearn like newborn infants for pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up to salvation.” In Acts 20:32, Paul said to the leadership of the church at Ephesus, “And now I entrust you to God and to the message of His grace. This message is able to build you up…”

Are we allowing the Word of God to make us stronger? Are we putting ourselves in environments where we can be built up by the Bible? The Bible will make little impact in our lives if we don’t believe it and are convinced that its message is true. So that is why this phrase ends with a reference to faith. If I truly believe something, it will change the way I live my life. In an age where the Bible is being relegated to a minor part in many Christians’ lives, those who will thrive in the last days, according to Jude, will continually be strengthening themselves through God’s Word.