Building Up, Praying, and Remaining in God’s Love
Introduction: The Context of Jude 1:20
The New Testament letter of Jude is a brief yet powerful message written to believers facing challenges from false teachers and growing immorality. In Jude 1:20, the apostle urges, “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit…” This phrase, “most holy faith,” stands out as a call for Christians to strengthen their beliefs and deepen their spiritual lives. But what does it truly mean, and why is it so vital for followers of Christ today?
Understanding “Most Holy Faith”
The phrase “most holy faith” refers not just to belief in God, but to the core doctrines and truths of Christianity handed down from the apostles. It encompasses the gospel message and the foundation upon which Christian life is built (see Ephesians 2:19-22). Calling this faith “most holy” highlights its purity, sacredness, and set-apart nature. It is not a faith shaped by human ideas, but by divine revelation through Scripture.
In a world filled with competing beliefs and shifting values, Jude reminds believers that their faith is precious and must be protected and nurtured. It is a treasure that shapes both what we believe and how we live.
Building Up in Faith: Spiritual Growth and Personal Responsibility
Jude’s instruction to “build yourselves up” emphasizes that spiritual growth is an ongoing process and a personal responsibility. Just as a building requires a strong foundation and continual maintenance, so too does our faith require attention and effort. This involves studying the Bible, applying its truths, and allowing the Holy Spirit to shape our hearts and minds (2 Peter 1:5-8).
Spiritual maturity doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intentional choices—setting aside time for worship, learning from sound teaching, and cultivating a life that reflects Christ’s character. By doing so, we become more resilient against false teachings and temptations.
Praying in the Holy Spirit: Guidance, Fervency, and Effectiveness
Jude also urges believers to pray “in the Holy Spirit.” This means more than simply saying prayers; it is about seeking God’s guidance, surrendering our will, and allowing the Spirit to lead our words and desires (Romans 8:26-27). Praying in the Spirit brings fervency, sincerity, and effectiveness to our prayers.
Through this kind of prayer, believers experience God’s presence, receive strength for daily living, and find wisdom for difficult situations. It is a vital part of building up our faith and remaining connected to God’s power and purpose.
Contrast: “Sensual Men” Versus True Believers
Jude’s letter draws a sharp contrast between those who follow their own desires (“sensual men” or those who separate themselves from Christ through sin) and those who build themselves up in faith. False faith is marked by self-centeredness, division, and a disregard for God’s truth (Jude 1:18-19). Genuine faith, on the other hand, is built on Christ, unified by love, and results in a life that seeks holiness and obedience.
True faith is characterized by humility, perseverance, and a reliance on God’s grace (Hebrews 11:6; James 2:17). It holds fast to sound doctrine, even when it is unpopular, and produces the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Practical Application: Spiritual Growth, Prayer, and Mutual Support
· Encourage One Another: Spiritual growth is not a solo journey. Believers are called to support and build up one another through encouragement, accountability, and shared prayer (Hebrews 10:24-25).
· Show Compassion: Jude continues in verse 22, “And have mercy on those who doubt.” Patience and compassion toward others—especially those struggling in faith—reflect the love of Christ and help restore those who are wavering (Galatians 6:1-2).
· Stay Accountable: Find trustworthy friends or mentors who can help you stay grounded in biblical truth, pray with you, and lovingly challenge you to grow.
· Immerse in Scripture: Regular reading and meditation on God’s Word strengthens faith and equips believers to discern truth from error (Psalm 119:105).
· Persevere in Prayer: Develop a habit of praying in the Holy Spirit, asking for God’s guidance, strength, and transformation in your life and in the lives of others.
Conclusion: Remaining in God’s Love, Hope, and Holiness
Jude concludes with a call to “keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life” (Jude 1:21). Remaining in God’s love means staying close to Him through faith, prayer, and obedience. It means actively resisting the pull of sin and false doctrine, and clinging to the hope and holiness found in Christ.
As believers, we are entrusted with a “most holy faith”—a faith that is sacred, enduring, and life-changing. By building ourselves up, praying in the Holy Spirit, and encouraging one another, we grow stronger together and shine as lights in a world in need of hope.
Minister A Francine Green, April 2026
afrancinegreen.com 