Dealing With Mockers In The Last Time

Jude warned about ungodly men that were “denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 4). They were both corrupt and false teachers (v. 8), who live without the fear of God (v. 12). Jude also reminds them about the words spoken by the Lord’s apostles that there should be “scoffers” (2 Pet 3:3), and mockers “in the last time.” These are all part of the prophetic events that states, “in the last days perilous times shall come” (2 Tim 3:1), and “iniquity shall abound” (Mt 24:12). As bible-believing Christians who are standing “fast in the faith” (1 Cor 16:13), we will always encounter individuals or groups of people who will mock or ridicule us, because they choose to “walk after their own ungodly lusts.”

Their words are not merely “foolish talking, nor jesting” (Eph 5:4), but something that may create doubt and discouragement in our hearts! However, God’s word provides us with wisdom (Prov 9:10), that encourages us not to be afraid (Isa 41:10), but to maintain our walk with the Saviour (Col 2:6). Indeed, we are commanded to “earnestly contend for the faith” (v. 3). But we must be careful not to walk into the trap of engaging mockers in a negative way (2 Tim 2:23). Instead of fighting back “evil for evil” (Rom 12:17), we must learn to respond with “grace” (Rom 12:3), “love” (Mt 5:44), and “compassion” (v. 22), so we can make a difference in their lives!

Sadly, these last days will also be characterized by people who wants the security of salvation in Jesus (1 Jn 5:12), but they refuse to have Him rule their lives. They are still lost because their Christ-less religion cannot save, cannot change, and cannot satisfy! As “ambassadors for Christ” (2 Cor 5:20), our goal is to reflect His goodness to others through our words and actions (Col 4:6). We are to be the shining lights (Mt 5:16), in a world that desperately needs hope and kindness! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera