Jude 1:20 — “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jude shifts from warning about false teachers to encouraging true believers. He once again addresses them tenderly as dear friends.
After describing all the danger and corruption caused by ungodly people, Jude now tells the believers what they should do to stay strong.
He gives two clear instructions:
- Build yourselves up in your most holy faith — This means growing stronger in what they believe about God, holding tightly to the truth of the gospel, and continuing to learn and mature in their faith. Their faith is called most holy because it is set apart, pure, and comes from God.
- Pray in the Holy Spirit — This is not about saying special words or emotional prayers. It means praying with the help, leading, and power of the Holy Spirit—praying in line with God’s will, not selfish desires.
Jude is telling believers: Don’t focus on the false teachers. Focus on growing stronger in your faith and staying close to God.
Historical Context
In the early church, believers were surrounded by false teaching, division, and spiritual attacks.
Some may have felt confused, discouraged, or overwhelmed by the ungodliness around them.
Jude is reminding them that the answer is not to panic or argue—but to strengthen their own faith and keep praying in step with God’s Spirit.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several important truths:
- Spiritual growth is active.
Believers are called to intentionally build themselves up in the truth. Faith is not passive. - True faith is holy.
It is set apart and different from the false, empty teachings of the world. - Prayer is essential.
But not just any prayer—prayer empowered by the Holy Spirit, seeking God’s will.
It also teaches that spiritual protection against false teaching comes not from debate but from personal growth, dependence on God, and Spirit-filled prayer.
Literary Analysis
The language in this verse is tender but firm.
Jude’s use of “But you, dear friends” sets a clear contrast with the false teachers he has been describing.
The instructions are action words:
- Building yourselves up
- Praying in the Holy Spirit
This marks a turning point in the letter—from warning to encouragement and instruction.
Cross-References
Other Scriptures echo the same truth:
- Ephesians 4:12-13 — The goal of building up the body of Christ until we all reach maturity.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11 — “Encourage one another and build each other up.”
- Romans 8:26-27 — The Spirit helps believers in prayer.
- Colossians 2:6-7 — “Continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a clear call to focus not on the chaos of the world or false teaching but on growing stronger in faith and prayer.
It’s easy to get distracted or discouraged by what others are doing, but Jude reminds us to pay attention to our own walk with God.
The call to pray in the Holy Spirit is also a reminder that prayer is not a ritual—it’s a real conversation with God, guided by His Spirit.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in this instruction.
He doesn’t just warn His people about danger—He tells them how to stay safe and strong.
He invites His people to grow, to pray, and to depend on His Spirit.
This is not a burden but a gift—God wants His people to be strong, joyful, and full of life in their faith.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the foundation of the most holy faith that Jude mentions.
Everything believers are called to build their lives on is rooted in who Jesus is and what He has done.
In Matthew 7:24-25, Jesus spoke about building your life on His words like a wise man who builds his house on a rock.
Jesus also promised the Holy Spirit to help and guide His followers in prayer (John 14:26; John 16:13).
This verse points believers back to Jesus—the source of their faith and the one who sends the Spirit to help them.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jude shifts from warning to encouraging believers in this verse?
- What does it mean to build yourself up in your faith?
- How can you learn to pray more in the leading and power of the Holy Spirit?
- Why is personal spiritual growth the best defense against false teaching?
- How does this verse reflect God’s love and care for His people?