Have you ever heard the phrase “the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints”? It’s taken from Jude 1:3, and while it sounds formal or complex, its meaning is both simple and powerful. This phrase serves as a reminder of the treasure that Christians have received. This treasure is a total and unchanging faith. It was fully revealed through Jesus Christ and passed down through His apostles.
What Does It Really Mean?
Let’s break it down:
· “Faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints”: The core teachings of Christianity were given to believers completely. These teachings were entrusted fully. They were entrusted fully. The message of salvation, grace, and hope through Jesus is definitive. There’s no need for new doctrines or additional revelations. What we have is complete and sufficient.
· “Entrusted to the saints”: The term “saints” doesn’t refer to a special group of people—it means all believers. This faith isn’t just for pastors, theologians, or church leaders; it’s for every single Christian. It’s a shared responsibility to protect, defend, and live out this faith.
· “Once for all”: This emphasizes that the truth of Christianity is timeless and final. It was delivered once and doesn’t need updates or “add-ons.” It’s solid and unchanging, no matter how much the world changes around us.
Why Does This Matter Today?
We live in a time of extraordinary challenges. People are bombarded with conflicting ideas, false teachings, and pressures to compromise their beliefs. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to respond. Jude 1:3 reminds Christians of their calling. They must defend the truth of their faith. They are to live it boldly, even when it’s hard.
Defending the Faith
Defending the faith doesn’t mean arguing or debating endlessly. It’s about knowing what you believe and being capable of explaining why it matters. It’s standing firm in the truth of the Gospel when others try to distort or undermine it. You don’t need to be a theologian. Simply knowing God’s Word and trusting His promises equips you to guard what’s been entrusted to you.
Living the Faith
Living the Christian faith means allowing it to shape your daily life—your decisions, your interactions, and your priorities. It’s about showing love, grace, and hope to those around you, even when circumstances are difficult. Your faith isn’t just something you believe in—it’s something you live out, displaying the truth of Jesus through your actions.
A Shared Responsibility
Remember, this faith is entrusted to “the saints”—to all believers, not just a select few. Together, Christians are called to guard and share this treasure, ensuring it’s passed on to future generations. Whether through teaching, service, or simple acts of kindness, everyone has a role to play in upholding the faith.
Closing Thoughts
The faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints is a gift that’s timeless, complete, and unchanging. It’s a reminder of God’s love and truth, given to every believer to cherish and defend. In a world full of challenges, let’s take this calling seriously. We must stand firm in what we believe. Live it out with courage and grace.
In His Service,
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 