Jude 1:20

The contrast Jude introduced with "But" distinguishes Jude’s readers from the false teachers. Since we are God’s temples under attack by hostile enemy forces, we need to build ourselves up, to strengthen ourselves spiritually (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; Ephesians 2:20-22; 2 Peter 3:18).

"The best thing believers can do to withstand the malady is to develop their spiritual immunological resources." [Note: A. Duane Litfin, "A Biblical Strategy for Confronting the Cults," Bibliotheca Sacra 135:539 (July-September 1978):235. Cf. 1 Peter 1:5-7.]

This is the first of several commands, and it is a general order. What follows clarifies how to do this.

"’Building up’ (epoikodomountes) depicts this growth under the familiar figure of the erection of a house or temple. The compound verb points to the superstructure being reared on an existing foundation. The present tense underlines the fact that the building of a strong and stable Christian character is an ongoing process." [Note: Hiebert, "An Exposition . . . 17-23," p. 360. Cf. Philippians 2:12.]

". . . one can destroy in just a few hours that which has taken years to construct. However, to be a builder is much more fulfilling than being a destroyer!" [Note: Cedar, p. 258.]

"Your most holy faith" is the faith "once for all delivered to the saints" (Judges 1:3). This is the foundation of our Christian life.

Second, true believers are not devoid of the Spirit (Judges 1:19). We have Him and can pray in Him, namely, pray for God’s help in harmony with the Spirit’s desires (Ephesians 6:18; Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Galatians 4:6). Our greatest resource is God Himself. We secure His help through prayer.

"The development of spiritual maturity is vitally related to the practice of prayer at all times and in all places." [Note: Hiebert, "An Exposition . . . 17-23," p. 361.]