Do you want to know how to be more productive and useful in your knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ? Peter tells us in chapter 1, verses 5 - 7: "In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and more excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone."
Peter's message was urgent because the Lord had shown him that he would "soon leave this earthly life." He makes the point that he was there during Jesus' ministry and he heard God say that Jesus was his beloved Son, who brings him great joy. He warns of false teachers who "cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Maker who bought them.
Peter also describes what the last days will be like: scoffers mocking the truth and following their own desires. God is not slow to fulfill his promise, but he is not willing that any should perish. The day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. We should be living holy lives because everything around us will be destroyed. Live peaceful and blameless lives. "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Now, Jude is described as a "slave of Jesus Christ and a brother of James." He is warning those called by God the Father that ungodly people have wormed their way into the churches. Did you note that the devil and Michael, the archangel, fought over Moses' body. We must build each other up in the "most holy faith", pray in the power of the Holy Spirit and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. "In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love." We must show mercy.
Tomorrow, we'll read I John.
By the way, Merry Christmas and a Most Happy New Year.
Until next time…
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