Jesus prophesied that false prophets would arise in the last days, performing signs and wonders so convincing that even true believers could be misled. We are living in those times. False prophets are everywhere, and believers must rely on the discernment of the Spirit to avoid being deceived by charisma or displays of power.
A Timeless Warning from Jude
Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.
In Jude’s time, false teachers had infiltrated the church. They promoted immoral lifestyles and distorted the foundational truths of the gospel. That same spirit is at work today. These deceivers are in churches, seminars, conferences, and all over the internet. Wherever people seek truth, the enemy plants lies.
We Must Contend for the Faith
Jude's message is a clear call to all followers of Christ: contend for the faith. We are to stand against false teachings and guard the gospel that saved us. The faith handed down to us is not just a belief system—it is life and truth. It must be protected.
These false teachers have one goal: personal gain. As Philippians 3:19 says, “their god is their stomach.” They twist the gospel to serve their interests. They have no interest in entering the kingdom of God, and they make it harder for others to enter as well.
What Does It Mean to Contend for the Faith?
Still, while we must oppose false doctrines, we are not called to engage in personal attacks or name-calling. That is not the way of Christ. We are to speak the truth boldly, but with love. Our correction must be rooted in truth and carried out with a heart that desires restoration, not division. To truly contend for the faith is to stand firm, speak clearly, and reflect the character of Christ.
Let us hold fast to sound doctrine and guard our hearts with the truth. Let us be rooted in the Word, led by the Spirit, and spiritually alert. This is not a time for silence or compromise. It is a time to contend for the faith, the truth, and for the souls that are at stake.