What role does remembrance play in Jude 1:5 for strengthening our faith? Setting the Scene “Although you already know all this, I want to remind you that after Jesus had delivered His people out of the land of Egypt, He destroyed those who did not believe.” (Jude 1:5) Jude writes to believers who “already know” the facts, yet he still says, “I want to remind you.” Remembrance is not remedial; it is essential. Why Jude Calls Us to Remember • Safeguard against drifting—stories fade, convictions weaken when memory grows dim (Hebrews 2:1). • Expose false teaching—memory of God’s past actions becomes a plumb line for truth (Jude 1:3–4). • Stir holy fear and hope—God’s deliverance and judgment are equally real; both truths steady the soul (Romans 11:22). What We Are to Remember 1. God’s Mighty Deliverance • Exodus: slaves freed by divine power (Exodus 14:30–31). • Personal salvation: “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness” (Colossians 1:13). 2. God’s Unflinching Judgment • Wilderness generation fell because of unbelief (Numbers 14:29–32; 1 Corinthians 10:5). • Future certainty: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). 3. The Unchanging Character of Jesus • He saved, He judged—both acts flow from one righteous heart (Hebrews 13:8). How Remembrance Strengthens Faith • Anchors assurance—Past deliverance proves He can finish what He started (Philippians 1:6). • Fuels perseverance—Recalling consequences of unbelief warns us to “hold firmly till the end” (Hebrews 3:14). • Ignites gratitude—“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His benefits” (Psalm 103:2). • Cultivates discernment—Memory of truth equips us to spot counterfeit doctrine (2 Timothy 3:14). • Sparks worship—Remembering God’s works leads naturally to praise (Psalm 77:11–14). Scriptural Echoes of Jude 1:5 • 2 Peter 1:12–13—Peter also “reminds” the saints, knowing repetition safeguards them. • Deuteronomy 8:2—Israel called to remember wilderness lessons before entering blessing. • Hebrews 10:32—“Remember the early days” to endure present trials. • Lamentations 3:21—“This I recall to mind, and therefore I have hope.” Practical Ways to Cultivate Holy Remembrance • Read Scripture aloud—let your ears hear the mighty acts of God. • Keep a gratitude journal—record fresh mercies and answered prayers. • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly—God’s ordained memorial of the cross (1 Corinthians 11:24–26). • Share testimonies—remind one another of God’s faithfulness (Psalm 145:4). • Memorize key passages—store them where forgetfulness can’t reach (Psalm 119:11). When we deliberately remember, faith is strengthened, discernment is sharpened, and hope is renewed—exactly what Jude intended for every believer who reads his short, urgent letter. |
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