SCRIPTURE: Jude 1:11-16

OBSERVATION:
Cain killed his brother out of pride and jealousy (Genesis 4). Balaam seduced God’s people to turn to idols (Numbers 31:15-18, a scary reading). Korah rebelled against God’s authority (Numbers 26:9-11). Jude levels a harsh rebuke against these dangerous “Christians” who will one day experience the “blackest darkness”. Jude quotes from a non-biblical text (First Enoch) to illustrate his comments about the final judgment against ungodly sinners. They represent selfishness to the extreme, shepherds feeding themselves at the expense of the sheep.

APPLICATION:
God has always challenged those who take advantage of others, who selfishly think only of themselves, with no regard for the weak, the needy, the hurting. He is angry towards those who distort His grace into self-interest, and neglect or abuse or use others for selfish gain and pleasure. This is a huge warning to those who fail to follow God’s heart for caring for the weak and needy, and live selfishly for pleasure and personal gain.

PRAYER:
Lord, thank You that we do not see these kinds of people here at Hope. But help us to see the subtle ways that we too are driven by self-interest. Open our eyes to the ways we hurt others, and help us to become more like You! Amen.