Our preservation is a Trinitarian work. God the Father keeps and preserves us, God the Son intercedes for us. And God the Holy Spirit indwells and assists us.
– R.C. Sproul.
Jude and James, half brothers of Jesus, have the same introductions in the books they have written. Both of them recognized that they are preserved through Jesus Christ. Furthermore, they both acknowledged the Lordship of Jesus Christ when they wrote, James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ (James 1:1) and Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James (Jude 1). This was contrary to the claims they had during Jesus’ ministry (John 7:5).
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Book of Jude 1. Please, read our recent devotional from the Letter of Paul to the Galatians 3:13: How Are We Redeemed From The Curse Of The Law?
Jesus Christ Has Preserved Us
R.C. Sproul has explained the Trinitarian work on the preservation of the saints. The three divine persons are supporting us to accomplish God’s design and purpose for us. God calls us to Him. Additionally, our personal relationship with Him is made possible through Christ. And the Holy Spirit guides our actions while we are on earth.
Paul and Peter wrote, on more than one occasion, that we are preserved until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6, Ephesians 4:30, 1 Peter 1:3-5). So what now? Does this mean we are to do whatever we want?
How Are We To Act Then?
Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). This verse does not mean do good works to earn salvation, rather do good works for you are preserved in Christ. Moreover, it serves more as an effect, not the means.
Therefore, let us act according to what the saints are called for. And that is to be in constant thanksgiving to the Father, obeying His commands and walking in the Spirit. Moreover, do not forsake the saving grace that preserved you in Jesus Christ. Accept Jesus Now.
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- Do you often feel that you are at loss in your faith in Christ?
- How do you feel when you are visited with doubts about your salvation?
- What Bible verses you read when you are troubled by doubts?
- Read more about how Jesus’ saints are preserved.
Related Posts
Prayer
Father God, my strength is gone. I am unable—but your Word says I can do all thing through Christ who strengthens me. Give me Your strength, not physical strength but the power to move mountains that flows from faith in Jesus. Help me to depend on You to do what I think I cannot do. Let your strength alone sustain me.
All these we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(from ibelieve.com)
