CONTEND FOR THE FAITH

In Jude's epistle, he warned the followers of Christ that 'The Faith' is under attack by false teachers. He urges them to stand firm against those seeking to subvert and erode the Gospel message. 

Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. Jude 1:3

The Greek word for 'contend' describes an athlete intensely striving to win the victory. The Amplified version translates the command as 'fight strenuously for [the defense of] the faith'.

Initially, Jude intended to write a general letter of encouragement to Christian believers but was prompted by the Holy Spirit to send an urgent warning instead. He exhorted them to wage war against 'error' in all forms. The pure Gospel of Jesus Christ was not to be sullied by the doctrines of men ... 

Spurgeon - In the sense of being 'once for all' given to the saints, the faith of Christians is not a variable quantity. It is not a thing that changes from day to day, as some seem to suppose, vainly imagining that fresh light is bestowed upon each new generation. No, the truth is fixed; and it is for us to hold it fast as God has given it to us.

Since the faith is 'entrusted to God’s holy people', all believers are called to defend the truth found in Jesus Christ alone. We are to fight against those who claim to receive 'new revelation'. Mormon, Jehovah's Witness, and New Age theologies are but a few of these insidious and deceptive teachings.

We must contend for the faith by first 'exposing' and then 'opposing' these heretical doctrines that lead men astray. Paul was deeply concerned about the threat ... 

I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:6-9

We are to 'fight the good fight of faith' as a soldier of God in pursuit of holy living, persistent service, and defense of the Gospel. Satan is using 'religion' as his weapon of choice in these last days. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ... cling to Him, for nothing else is needed (nor warranted).