Saturday, July 19

Verse: “ …contending earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.” - Jude 1:3

To contend earnestly for the faith

The call to "contend earnestly" implies a vigorous defense of the Christian faith. The Greek word used here, "epagonizomai," conveys the idea of a struggle or fight, indicating that maintaining doctrinal purity requires active effort. This echoes Paul's exhortation to Timothy to "fight the good fight of the faith" (1 Timothy 6:12), highlighting the spiritual battle against false teachings and beliefs.

Discuss the following:

  1. In what ways do we find ourselves being challenged by the culture for our faith?

  2. Give some examples of your experiences, encounters, or observations in schools, workplaces, social media, or society in general where your faith has been put to the test or challenged by someone.

  3. What are some of the ways we can equip ourselves with against ungodly philosophies, false teachings, and modern anti-Christian beliefs? How important it is to you to equip yourself?

  4. What is your takeaway from last night’s session about the existence of God?

  5. Read Ephesians 4:14-15 and discuss what it’s telling us: “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”

Close in prayer.

Sunday, July 20

Verse: “…contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.” - Jude 1:3

The faith handed down to us

The faith referred to is Biblical faith given to us by Christ and the apostles and handed down to the early church. The faith that in Christ alone is found salvation and no one else. That his death on the cross provided a way for our salvation by trusting in him (Jesus) believing that forgiveness can only be received through him. To believe in him means to trust every Word he said about himself, God, and humanity. It includes completely and fully believing in his finished work at the cross and in his glorious resurrection.

“Once for all" emphasizes the completeness and finality of this revelation about our biblical faith, suggesting that no new doctrines are needed beyond what has been delivered.

The term "saints" refers to all believers, indicating that this faith is a collective responsibility. This aligns with the idea in Hebrews 1:1-2, where God’s final revelation is through His Son, Jesus Christ, and the teachings of the apostles.

Discuss the following:

  1. In what area or teachings of the Christian faith do you struggle the most or f ind it hard to believe?

  2. What Bible verses have helped you or teachings that have given you new insight from our sessions so far?

  3. To contend means to vigorously defend. What steps would you take to gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and defend against those who would oppose or attack it?

  4. Think of these verses and discuss what they mean to you: “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving”? (Colossians 2:6,7). How can you practice these?

  5. Would you be willing to be part of a Bible Study group if not a member of a group yet? Or perhaps, start one at work or in the home? Is there someone you can help who’s struggling with doubts and questions? If none, think of someone you can help and share to the group for prayer.

Close in prayer.