TEXT: Jude 1:22-23 (Read vv. 17-25)
READING: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18
SUBJ: Our attitude and concern toward each other as to the effects of those described in vv. 16-19.
AIM: That we might be aware of the dangers and be of such a mind and spirit as to express compassion on such as are affected and have grace to be receptive to such concerns.
INTR: The distinctions of believers here are in contrast to those who are called out in this epistle.
1. There comes first a warning and examples of consequences – see vv. 4-7.
2. There is a description of the character of those about whom we are warned. See vv. 8-11.
3. Their actions and operations are alluded to in vv. 12-15.
THESIS: We are to be reminded of a religious element that hates the gospel and those who believe it. We must be conscious that we are subject to their attacks on us and our brethren – we are our brothers’ keepers!
I. Having compassion (v. 22a)
1. This is not an attitude of judgment, not are we policemen.
1) We have long avoided such things for fear of being judgmental on the one hand,
2) And resenting the idea that we might be judged on the other.
2. The word here is compassion, not accusation. The word “mercy” is used in some cases.
3. The reference here may be to two situations:
1) Those having fallen prey to the deceivers.
2) Those needing assistance in returning to the Lord and finding a place of repentance.
4. The need, in any case, is prayer first and an attitude of care and true compassion.
5. The work here is from the perspective of vv. 20-21 (keeping yourselves…)
II. Making a difference (v. 22b)
1. There is to be a recognition of individual dignity:
1) Avoiding the idea of men that it is safer to treat all alike thereby assuming that the needs of each are the same.
2) We must not lump all under the thought of mere erring church members.
3) Rather we do well to be moved by compassion rather than a legalistic assessment.
2. This differentiation occurs in singling out the particular ones (some) for a particular kind of tenderness or firmness as the case may be.
3. This difference and distinction begin in the heart of the one(s) who would intercede for/with another.
III. Others Save with fear (v. 23a)
(We are to be reminded that those enemies of the Gospel are not without effect.)
1. So, we question our approach to evangelism, reasonableness, or complacency, natural consequences, or eternal ones? It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Saving with fear implies both urgency and bravery.
2. The reason for saving senses the effect of what is wrong – the viciousness of deceivers.
1) The love for the objects of salvation moves us to their aid. Saved or not? Not for us to decide.
2) Here is a mandate from the Word of God to act immediately.
3. The implication of the harvest is that the sickle is to be put in now (not to wait for a decision). We are urged on by the consequences of hesitation and disobedience – Theirs or ours.
4. Actions are often dictated by the fear and urgency previously mentioned.
1) Thus, we are to urge the realization of final things:
2) Not the time for platitudes and well wishing.
3) We endeavor to communicate the reason of our fear to them.
4) It is time to paint vivid pictures of heaven and hell.
5. We consider the figure of fire here and the suggestion that there is no time for delay.
IV. Hating the Garment (v. 23b)
1. Seeing sin as sin, as filthy in every respect, while being careful not to condemn or be self-righteous.
2. Consider: I have overthrown some of you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and ye were as a firebrand plucked out of the burning: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD. (Amos 4:11)
3. And especially: And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. (Zechariah 3:1-3)
4. We are to hate the behavior without hating the person (God is under no such restriction, but we certainly are).
5. We should fear lapsing into indifference and complacency.
V. Can we handle it?
1. It is a serious error to think that things in the life of someone you love are “none of your business.” (This, of course, is notwithstanding respect for personal privacy)
2. And it is just as serious to think that my life is “none of their business.”
3. This is not about “right or wrong” it is about mercy and compassion among brethren.
4. We should pray for grace to both show and receive compassion.
