Jude 1:21
Verse
Context
Sermons
Leonard Ravenhill
Zac PoonenLeonard Ravenhill
Jim Cymbala
Samuel Rutherford
Warren WiersbeSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Keep yourselves in the love of God - By building up yourselves on your most holy faith, and praying in the Holy Ghost; for without this we shall soon lose the love of God. Looking for the mercy of our Lord - For although they were to build themselves up, and to pray in the Holy Ghost, and keep themselves in the love of God, yet this building, praying, and keeping, cannot merit heaven; for, after all their diligence, earnestness, self-denial, watching, obedience, etc., they must look for the Mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ, to bring them to Eternal Life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In Jde 1:20-21, Jude combines the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost: and faith, hope, and love. Keep yourselves--not in your own strength, but "in the love of God," that is, God's love to you and all His believing children, the only guarantee for their being kept safe. Man's need of watching is implied; at the same time he cannot keep himself, unless God in His love keep him. looking for--in hope. the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ--to be fully manifested at His coming. Mercy is usually attributed to the Father: here to the Son; so entirely one are they.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Keep yourselves in the love of God,.... By which may be meant either the grace and favour of God, that love with which God loves his people; and then the exhortation to the saints to keep themselves in it is, to set it always before them, to keep it constantly in view, to exercise faith on it, firmly believing their interest in it; as also to meditate on it, give themselves up wholly to the contemplation of it, and employ their thoughts constantly about it, which is the foundation of all grace here, and glory hereafter; or to preserve themselves by it, for so the words may be rendered, "preserve yourselves by the love of God"; against Satan's temptations, the snares of the world, and the lusts of the flesh; whenever Satan solicits to sin, and any snare is laid to draw into it, and the flesh attempts to be predominant, saints should betake themselves to the love of God, as to a strong hold and preservative against sin, and reason as Joseph did, Gen 39:9, for the love of God, and continuance in it, do not depend on anything that can be done by men; nor is there any danger of real believers falling from it, or losing it, since it is unchangeable, and is from everlasting to everlasting; or else by the love of God we are to understand that love with which his people love him and of which he is the object, Luk 11:42; and then the meaning of the exhortation is, that though this grace of love cannot be lost, yet, inasmuch as the fervour of it may be abated, and the people of God grow cold and indifferent in their expressions of it, it becomes them to make use of all proper means to maintain and increase it in themselves and others; such as are mentioned in the context, as conversing together in an edifying way about the doctrines of the Gospel, and praying either separately or together, under the influences of the Holy Spirit, and looking forward for the grace and mercy of Christ unto everlasting life; all which, with many other, things, by the blessing of God, may serve to maintain and revive the grace of love, and blow it up into a flame: though perhaps this phrase may chiefly design that love, peace, and concord, which ought to subsist among saints as brethren, and which they should be careful to preserve; and may be called the love of God, just as the same thing is styled the peace of God, Col 3:15, because it is what God requires, what he calls unto, which is of him, and is taught by him in regeneration, and what his, love engages to, and without which there is no true love to him; and he takes, love shown to his people as if shown to himself; and this sense is favoured by the context, both by the words in the preceding verse, and in the following ones: looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. The mercy of Christ may be considered either as past, which was shown in eternity, in his covenant transactions with his Father, in engaging in the cause of his people, in espousing them to himself, and in the care of their persons, grace, and glory; and in time, in assuming their nature, in his tender concern for the bodies and souls of men, in bearing the sins and sorrows of his people, in the redemption of them, and in their regeneration and calling; and there is the present mercy of Christ, in interceding for his people, in sympathizing with them under all their afflictions, in succouring them under all their temptations, in suiting himself, as the great Shepherd, to all the circumstances of his flock; and there is the future mercy of Christ, which will be shown at death, in the grave, and at the resurrection, at the day of judgment, and in the merciful sentence he will pronounce on his people; and this seems to be designed here; the consequent of which, or what is annexed to it, and in which it issues, is eternal life; which is not owing to the works of men, but to the grace of God, and mercy of Christ; eternal life is in him, and is given through him, and to his mercy should men look for it. Christ himself is to be looked for, who will certainly come a second time; and eternal life is to be looked for by him; and this is only to be expected through his grace and mercy; and this is to be looked for by faith, in the love of it, with delight and pleasure, and cheerfulness, with eagerness, and yet with patience.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:21-36 The tribes of Israel failed to keep the covenant; their complacency was rebellion against the Lord, as the rest of the book of Judges shows. 1:21 Though the tribe of Benjamin produced more than its share of heroes (e.g., Ehud, Saul), it was also the nadir of covenant unfaithfulness, in contrast to Judah (see 20:18). Like Judah in its first battle (1:4-8), Benjamin faced challenges from a great people dwelling in a great city, but Benjamin settled for sharing the city with them. Reference to the Lord’s personal presence is absent (cp. 1:19, 22). The Jebusite city remained in Canaanite hands until David’s day. • The phrase to this day highlights either ongoing historical circumstances (here and 6:24) or the survival of certain customs to a later time (1:26; 10:4; 15:19; 18:12).
Jude 1:21
A Call to Persevere
20But you, beloved, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,21keep yourselves in the love of God as you await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you eternal life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Suffering With Jesus Christ
By Leonard Ravenhill7.4K58:00SufferingMAT 5:6JHN 3:16JHN 16:7JHN 17:1HEB 10:25JUD 1:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of taking on the yoke of Jesus. He uses the analogy of a train staying on track to illustrate the importance of being in bondage to the will of God. The preacher emphasizes the idea of being witnesses and martyrs for Christ, willing to suffer for Him. He shares a story about a young man named Hughie who faced impending death with joy and anticipation of seeing the King in His beauty. The sermon concludes with a reflection on Jesus' prayer in John's gospel, highlighting the significance of knowing God's timetable in one's own life.
Keeping Ourselves in the Love of God
By Zac Poonen1.8K59:20Love Of GodGEN 4:5PRO 4:23MAT 6:33MAT 12:43JUD 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of guarding our hearts and controlling our words. He uses the analogy of a man who cleans his house of jealousy, but then invites more negative spirits back in, resulting in a worse state than before. The speaker encourages listeners to watch their hearts diligently, as the condition of the heart affects the words we speak. He also highlights the need to have the right attitude towards others and to be good to them, as God has been good to us. The sermon references Proverbs 4:23 and Ephesians 3:17 to support these teachings.
Paul's Passion and Preaching - Part 3
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K07:51GAL 2:20PHP 1:20COL 3:9HEB 12:14JUD 1:21
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with the teachings of the Bible, highlighting the discrepancy between what is preached and how one actually lives. It delves into the story of Madame Guillén, who found contentment and joy in God even in the midst of imprisonment and adversity. The sermon challenges listeners to seek a deeper, genuine relationship with God rather than just superficial knowledge or religious practices.
Position to Stand
By Jim Cymbala95330:18Christian LifeNEH 8:10PSA 36:5PSA 89:1PSA 100:1PSA 136:26PHP 4:4JUD 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stance of joyful praise in our lives. He encourages listeners to have a fixed heart and to sing and praise God, regardless of the distractions and challenges they may face. The key to maintaining this joyful heart is to be conscious of and live in the atmosphere of God's love, knowing that His love is great and His faithfulness reaches to the skies. The speaker also highlights the danger of allowing worry and distractions to rob us of our song of praise and reminds listeners that God's love and faithfulness are two things that can never be taken away from us.
The Spirit Produces Fervent Devotion to Christ
By Zac Poonen7061:13:15ISA 42:8ROM 8:11COL 2:15HEB 2:14HEB 5:7JAS 4:71JN 4:17JUD 1:21REV 3:21
This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and experiencing His love. It highlights the need to grow in the knowledge of God's love, encouraging a deep revelation of His love for each individual. The speaker reflects on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, the power of His love to transform lives, and the significance of maintaining fellowship with the Father. The sermon also addresses the defeat of Satan through Christ's victory on the cross and the necessity of living a life filled with the Holy Spirit to overcome spiritual battles and walk in authority over the enemy.
Xxxii to John Gordon of Cardoness, the Elder
By Samuel Rutherford01SA 12:3ECC 12:1LUK 12:481TI 6:12JUD 1:21Samuel Rutherford addresses a difficult parishioner, urging him to focus on his salvation and not be distracted by earthly matters. He emphasizes the importance of casting burdens upon Christ, living righteously, and not oppressing others to ease his own debts. Rutherford shares his own experiences of suffering and imprisonment, highlighting the comfort found in Christ's love and the need to be crucified to the world. He encourages the parishioner to seek the Lord, especially in youth, and to hold fast to the teachings of Jesus for eternal life.
Blessed Are the Merciful
By Warren Wiersbe0PSA 18:25PSA 23:6LAM 3:22MAT 5:7LUK 6:38EPH 2:4COL 3:12JAS 2:13JUD 1:21Warren Wiersbe emphasizes the concept that mercy cannot be earned but is freely given by God. He explains that as Christians, we are called to be constant channels of mercy, receiving and extending it to others. Wiersbe highlights the liberating power of showing mercy, breaking free from grudges and experiencing God's love. He encourages believers to see others through the merciful eyes of Christ, recognizing every person as a candidate for God's mercy.
Keep Yourself in the Love of God
By Chuck Smith0God's LoveSpiritual GrowthGEN 4:3NUM 16:1PSA 16:11MAT 5:21JHN 3:16ROM 8:261CO 3:11HEB 9:28JUD 1:21REV 2:2Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of keeping ourselves in the love of God, as urged by Jude in his epistle. He explains that while God's love is unconditional and ever-present, we must actively maintain our position in that love to fully experience its blessings. Smith illustrates this by referencing biblical examples of those who failed to remain in God's love, such as the Israelites and certain angels, and warns against attitudes like hatred, greed, and envy that can hinder our relationship with God. He provides practical steps for staying in God's love, including building faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and looking forward to the return of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, he reassures that God's love is unwavering, and encourages believers to respond to it by living in harmony with His will.
Our Daily Homily - Jude
By F.B. Meyer0Anticipation of ChristPrayerFaithLUK 12:37JHN 15:9ROM 8:26PHP 4:61TH 5:17HEB 10:231JN 4:16JUD 1:3JUD 1:21REV 3:20F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of keeping ourselves in the love of God, urging believers to remain anchored in their faith amidst the distractions of life. He encourages building on the solid foundation of the faith delivered to the saints, rather than on personal emotions or experiences. Meyer highlights the necessity of praying in the Holy Spirit, allowing divine guidance in our prayers, and maintaining a vigilant anticipation for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. By doing so, believers can experience the fullness of God's love and eternal life.
An Antidote
By James Smith0PRO 23:5ISA 43:1ROM 8:282CO 1:202CO 4:17PHP 3:101PE 5:71JN 4:16JUD 1:21James Smith preaches on the challenging nature of divine providence, emphasizing that God's intention is to test our faith, patience, and submission to His will through trials. To reconcile our minds to God's dispensations, we must be assured of our adoption, have a constant sense of God's love, realize His presence, trust in His power working for our good, believe in His promises, value eternal things over temporal ones, remember our sinful nature and God's mercy, and seek fellowship with Christ in His sufferings.
How to Retain the Blessing
By Thomas Cook0PSA 119:105PHP 2:12PHP 3:131TH 5:172TI 2:15HEB 10:23JAS 1:271PE 1:52PE 3:18JUD 1:21Thomas Cook preaches on the collaborative effort between God and man in the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of both Divine intervention and human action in the work of salvation. While salvation is a gift from God, it requires our compliance with certain conditions to receive His gifts and graces. The sermon highlights the need for believers to persevere in order to be preserved, to work out their salvation while availing themselves of the means of grace, and to stay within the boundaries of strict obedience to God's will. It stresses the continuous act of consecration, the life of simple trust in God, the importance of prayerful meditation on the Word of God, and active engagement in Christian work for spiritual growth and joy.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Keep yourselves in the love of God - By building up yourselves on your most holy faith, and praying in the Holy Ghost; for without this we shall soon lose the love of God. Looking for the mercy of our Lord - For although they were to build themselves up, and to pray in the Holy Ghost, and keep themselves in the love of God, yet this building, praying, and keeping, cannot merit heaven; for, after all their diligence, earnestness, self-denial, watching, obedience, etc., they must look for the Mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ, to bring them to Eternal Life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In Jde 1:20-21, Jude combines the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost: and faith, hope, and love. Keep yourselves--not in your own strength, but "in the love of God," that is, God's love to you and all His believing children, the only guarantee for their being kept safe. Man's need of watching is implied; at the same time he cannot keep himself, unless God in His love keep him. looking for--in hope. the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ--to be fully manifested at His coming. Mercy is usually attributed to the Father: here to the Son; so entirely one are they.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Keep yourselves in the love of God,.... By which may be meant either the grace and favour of God, that love with which God loves his people; and then the exhortation to the saints to keep themselves in it is, to set it always before them, to keep it constantly in view, to exercise faith on it, firmly believing their interest in it; as also to meditate on it, give themselves up wholly to the contemplation of it, and employ their thoughts constantly about it, which is the foundation of all grace here, and glory hereafter; or to preserve themselves by it, for so the words may be rendered, "preserve yourselves by the love of God"; against Satan's temptations, the snares of the world, and the lusts of the flesh; whenever Satan solicits to sin, and any snare is laid to draw into it, and the flesh attempts to be predominant, saints should betake themselves to the love of God, as to a strong hold and preservative against sin, and reason as Joseph did, Gen 39:9, for the love of God, and continuance in it, do not depend on anything that can be done by men; nor is there any danger of real believers falling from it, or losing it, since it is unchangeable, and is from everlasting to everlasting; or else by the love of God we are to understand that love with which his people love him and of which he is the object, Luk 11:42; and then the meaning of the exhortation is, that though this grace of love cannot be lost, yet, inasmuch as the fervour of it may be abated, and the people of God grow cold and indifferent in their expressions of it, it becomes them to make use of all proper means to maintain and increase it in themselves and others; such as are mentioned in the context, as conversing together in an edifying way about the doctrines of the Gospel, and praying either separately or together, under the influences of the Holy Spirit, and looking forward for the grace and mercy of Christ unto everlasting life; all which, with many other, things, by the blessing of God, may serve to maintain and revive the grace of love, and blow it up into a flame: though perhaps this phrase may chiefly design that love, peace, and concord, which ought to subsist among saints as brethren, and which they should be careful to preserve; and may be called the love of God, just as the same thing is styled the peace of God, Col 3:15, because it is what God requires, what he calls unto, which is of him, and is taught by him in regeneration, and what his, love engages to, and without which there is no true love to him; and he takes, love shown to his people as if shown to himself; and this sense is favoured by the context, both by the words in the preceding verse, and in the following ones: looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. The mercy of Christ may be considered either as past, which was shown in eternity, in his covenant transactions with his Father, in engaging in the cause of his people, in espousing them to himself, and in the care of their persons, grace, and glory; and in time, in assuming their nature, in his tender concern for the bodies and souls of men, in bearing the sins and sorrows of his people, in the redemption of them, and in their regeneration and calling; and there is the present mercy of Christ, in interceding for his people, in sympathizing with them under all their afflictions, in succouring them under all their temptations, in suiting himself, as the great Shepherd, to all the circumstances of his flock; and there is the future mercy of Christ, which will be shown at death, in the grave, and at the resurrection, at the day of judgment, and in the merciful sentence he will pronounce on his people; and this seems to be designed here; the consequent of which, or what is annexed to it, and in which it issues, is eternal life; which is not owing to the works of men, but to the grace of God, and mercy of Christ; eternal life is in him, and is given through him, and to his mercy should men look for it. Christ himself is to be looked for, who will certainly come a second time; and eternal life is to be looked for by him; and this is only to be expected through his grace and mercy; and this is to be looked for by faith, in the love of it, with delight and pleasure, and cheerfulness, with eagerness, and yet with patience.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:21-36 The tribes of Israel failed to keep the covenant; their complacency was rebellion against the Lord, as the rest of the book of Judges shows. 1:21 Though the tribe of Benjamin produced more than its share of heroes (e.g., Ehud, Saul), it was also the nadir of covenant unfaithfulness, in contrast to Judah (see 20:18). Like Judah in its first battle (1:4-8), Benjamin faced challenges from a great people dwelling in a great city, but Benjamin settled for sharing the city with them. Reference to the Lord’s personal presence is absent (cp. 1:19, 22). The Jebusite city remained in Canaanite hands until David’s day. • The phrase to this day highlights either ongoing historical circumstances (here and 6:24) or the survival of certain customs to a later time (1:26; 10:4; 15:19; 18:12).