Key Text: Jude 1:3 KJV - Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

The exhortation to earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints was given because of the prevalence of false apostles in the early church. These false apostles or deceitful workers are also in the church today, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. They preach another Jesus, proclaim another gospel, and operate by another spirit - 2 Corinthians 11:4.

We must be vigilant to identify these ministers of Satan, who are in the church to deceive ignorant and unstable believers. Be not deceived; there's always  a mixed multitude among the believers in the church. Their assignment is to corrupt the body of Christ and teach rebellion which leads to destruction. They mistake the grace of God for licentiousness - Romans 6:1.

So, how can we contend for this faith? Firstly, we must continue in the word of God by seeking to know the truth which has the power to deliver us from deception - John 8:31-32. Secondly, we must endeavour to live by the truth that the Lord reveals unto us. Finally, we must be bold to preach the truth and forcefully oppose false doctrines peddled by false ministers of the gospel.

Prayer: Father, strengthen your true ministers for the battle of contending for the faith, in Jesus' name. Amen. 

Reflection: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind - 2 Timothy 1:7.