The adversary knows the time for him to inflict as much pain on the Body of Christ is shortening. It is not so much strong-arm tactics that come into the spiritual battleground; it is the game of play it dirty where the assault on believers matters. It happens in the midst of pews, if not congregations, even households that call themselves believers in Jesus.
For the mature believer who diligently pays heed to the true Prophetic Word, it might come as little surprise – verse 18 and 19 of the epistle of Jude gives us insight into the prevailing trend: “how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.”
These people so mentioned in this short epistle are definitely not on the side of the believer of Christ. They are more than willing to do the enemy’s bidding, seeking to break up fellowships and incite dissensions. Problem is, they oftentimes do not appear to be the sort until their ugliness catches some unaware.
As in whatever warfare that is waged, the weak as well as vulnerable get all the attention. This is certainly the case in the times we live in. If the enemy wanted to cause the most telling form of damage, he would zero in on the boys and girls fresh out of spiritual boot camp. We are talking about individuals who have very recently given their lives to Christ and somehow have a whole lot of spiritual ropes to learn. These sensual bad people would capitalize on their spiritual immaturity and thereby confuse if not deceive!
A new kid on the block in Jesus would be an easy picking for these adverse elements when he or she is left to fend for oneself in the face of such a ravenous onslaught. If left unchecked, this unwelcome trend can severely impact a fellowship, a small group, and even a family unit. This will happen when everything is taken for granted, oftentimes against the backdrop of numerous cares and concerns of little spiritual significance!
The man of sin is probably ranting and raving when more souls are won over to Christ in these final days, so he tries his level best to cause as much of an upset. We that are more rooted in the Word and spirituality mature have a duty to nurture those babes in Jesus – so that they may be able to stand against all the wiles of the wicked one. It is not just structured classes and lessons that are important for their growth, but proper mentoring goes a very long way in making many have faith that is unshakeable.
Do not spare that thought of losing a brother or sister in Christ to the dark side. It is our duty not to allow any dirty trick of the devil to unseat their relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord. Just as we are precious in His sight, so too are these babes in the Body of Christ. Verse 20 in the epistle of Jude sums it all up.
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit…”
It is of foremost importance for all of us to pray unceasingly in the Holy Spirit so that the body of believers will withstand whatever the enemy hurls at us. However, verse 22 and 23 of this epistle serves as useful advice on what we can do when in the thick of battle.
“And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by the flesh.”
Situations and personalities differ, but what is important here is not to let the individual drift away. While some people come to grips with the Truth in a placid manner, there are others who require more than a coax. But whatever it is, we must let the Holy Spirit run the show and not trust any bit of ourselves.
The hour is truly very late; our job is to do all for His Kingdom and Glory – with no nagging second thoughts!
Maranatha
Edwin
Contact me at edwinuk13@gmail.com