Standing Firm Amid False Teachings in the Church
Introduction: Why Contending for the Faith Matters Today
”Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.” (Jude 1:3 NLV)
If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so important for Christians to stand up and actively defend what they believe, you’re not alone. In today’s world—even within the Church—there’s a growing challenge. Ideas and teachings that don’t line up with the Bible are sneaking in, and it can be confusing for many believers. But there’s good news: the Bible gives us clear guidance on what to do. One powerful verse, Jude 1:3, urges us to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.” Let’s break down what that means and why it’s so crucial for every Christian, not just pastors or theologians, to take this call seriously.
Understanding ‘The Faith Once Delivered to the Saints’ (Jude 1:3)
Jude 1:3 isn’t just advice—it’s a heartfelt plea. The “faith” Jude talks about isn’t just believing in Jesus in a general sense. It refers to the core truths and teachings that Jesus and His apostles passed down to the earliest Christians. This faith was “once for all delivered,” meaning it was given completely and perfectly right from the start. Nothing needs to be added, and nothing should be taken away.
Key Aspects of the Faith: Objective, Apostolic, Authoritative, Unchangeable
So, what makes this faith so special? Let’s look at a few key qualities:
· Objective: The faith isn’t based on personal opinions or changing moods. It’s grounded in real events and truths about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
· Apostolic: It comes straight from Jesus’ closest followers—the apostles—who were eyewitnesses to everything He said and did.
· Authoritative: These teachings carry the weight of God’s authority. They’re trustworthy and binding for all believers.
· Unchangeable: The faith doesn’t evolve with the times. What was true in the first century is still true today. We aren’t free to change or rewrite God’s message to fit our preferences.
In short, “the faith once delivered to the saints” is a precious, unalterable gift from God. Our job is to protect it and share it faithfully.
The Threat of False Teachings in the Church
Sadly, not everyone who claims to speak for Christ actually teaches what He taught. Throughout history, and especially in our era, false teachings have infiltrated the Church. These can be subtle—sometimes just a twist on a Bible verse, or a new “interpretation” that ignores what Christians have always believed.
False teachers aren’t always easy to spot. They may use clever words or seem very sincere. But their teachings can slowly pull people away from the truth. This is why Jude’s warning is so important: if we don’t pay attention, we risk losing sight of the real gospel and replacing it with something that looks good but isn’t true.
How Believers Can Contend for the Faith (Practical Steps)
So, how can everyday Christians—people just like you—help defend and uphold the faith?
· Know the Bible: Spend time reading God’s Word. The more familiar you are with Scripture, the easier it is to spot teachings that don’t line up.
· Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your church leaders about what’s being taught. If something doesn’t sound right, seek clarity.
· Stay Connected: Be part of a community of believers who encourage each other to stick to the truth.
· Pray for Discernment: Ask God to help you recognize what’s true and reject what’s false.
· Speak Up—With Love: If you notice false teachings, be willing to gently and respectfully share the truth. It’s not about winning arguments, but about helping others see God’s real message.
The Importance of Maintaining Gospel Integrity
When we protect the truth of the gospel, we’re making sure that future generations hear the real story of Jesus and His love. The gospel has the power to change lives, but only if it remains pure and undiluted. If we allow false teachings to take root, people may miss out on the hope and salvation that God offers.
That’s why contending for the faith isn’t just for church leaders or Bible scholars—it’s something every believer is called to do. It’s about honoring God’s Word, loving others enough to share the truth, and making sure the message of Jesus is passed on faithfully.
Encouragement and Final Thoughts
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting messages out there, but remember: God has given us everything we need to stand firm. By holding onto “the faith once delivered to the saints,” we become part of a legacy that stretches back over 2,000 years—a legacy built on truth, love, and hope. Let’s encourage each other to read the Bible, ask questions, and lovingly guard the good news. The world needs the light of Christ now more than ever, and you have an important role to play in shining that light.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 