The Peace of God

Jude was exposing the ungodly men that were “turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness” (v. 4). The word lascivious refers to immorality (2 Cor 12:21). These false teachers were primarily focused on the “works of the flesh” (Gal 5:19). They mock God’s truth (Gal 6:7), while claiming to be Christians (1 Tim 6:21). And they are both in great danger to themselves and those followers that they are influencing. Because they bring “upon themselves swift destruction” (2 Pet 2:1). In order to guard ourselves against such errors and to “earnestly contend for the faith” (v. 3), we need to focus on understanding the truth through “the Spirit of truth” (Jn 14:17), Who dwells with us, and shall be with us! When we maintain our obedience and faithfulness to our Savior Jesus Christ, He promised to keep us “from falling” (v. 24). But we must do our part in multiplying mercy, peace, and love in our lives. All sinners (Rom 3:23), have the opportunity to get saved from “the wrath of God” (Col 3:6), because of “His mercy” (Titus 3:5). After trusting Jesus as our Lord and Savior by faith (2 Pet 1:1), we now “have peace with God” (Rom 5:1). We are also given “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Php 4:7). And since “the love of Christ constraineth us” (2 Cor 5:14), bible-believing Christians are also urged to demonstrate that same love to others by “having compassion one of another” (1 Pet 3:8), and be willing to perform all our duties “for love's sake” (Phm 1:9). With the multiplication of mercy, peace, and love in our lives, we shall experience an overwhelming desire to “serve the Lord with gladness” (Ps 100:2). We are the Lord’s property; therefore, we are to glorify God in our bodies, and in our spirits, “which are God's” (1 Cor 6:20). We have the privilege of lovingly and humbly obeying Him (Mic 6:8), and doing what He tells us to do without any questions or hesitations (Lk 9:23)! God bless you!

-Pastor Melito Barrera