[20] But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, [21] keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. (Jude 20–21)
As we await Jesus’ return in glory, what should we do? Go about our daily lives as nothing will happen soon? Live in a constant state of tension, worrying about the day and hour of Christ’s return?
In his exceedingly short yet powerful epistle, Jude offers a middle path. He encourages us to instead start building ourselves up in our “most holy faith…” How can we be built up in the faith?
- On a weekly basis gather for worship services, receiving God’s Word in multiple ways (Scripture readings, preaching and sacraments).
- Daily receive God’s Word, whether in personal devotions or group Bible studies.
- Gather with fellow believers for accountability and encouragement, what is described in the Lutheran Confessions as the “mutual conversation and consolation of the brethren.” (The Smalcald Articles in the Book of Concord)
I can offer no better nor proven ways to be built up in the faith while we await Christ’s return.
Kevin Wilson 360 