Perseverance in a Broken World

The importance of perseverance is known both within and without the church. But what does it look like for us to persevere? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the answer from Jude 17–23.

Sermon Discussion Questions

1. What comes to mind when you hear the word perseverance? Why is perseverance such a compelling ideal?
2. What is one highlight from the sermon and one question that you had after hearing the sermon?
3. Read Jude 5–6, 17–19. What is the difference between Jude’s originally call to remember and what he is doing here (cf. Psalm 78:5–8; Mark 13:3–7)? In what ways do the Bible’s predictions about the future help us weather difficulties?
4. Have you ever experienced a season of disillusionment with the church or Jesus because of people? How has the mercy of Jesus helped see you through?
5. Read Jude 20–21, 1, 24. What does it mean to “keep yourself in the love of God”? How do we understand this command in the context of Jude as a whole? What role does obedience play in the Christian’s assurance and perseverance (cf. Hebrews 10:19–39).
6. In Jude 20–21, we are given three commands on how to “keep ourselves in the love of God.” Which of these stands out to you? What does each of these look like in your day-to-day life? (cf. Eph. 4:15f; 2:18; Rom. 8:26; 4:20f)
7. Read Jude 22–23. How would you describe the “mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ” (21)? Why must we first start with the mercy of Jesus before attempting to show mercy to others? In what ways should we show mercy to others?
8. What does it look like to have mercy on those who doubt? To save others from the fire? To show mercy with fear? How are these different? What are some ways that you have seen this play out in your own life?
9. This Time Tomorrow: How does this passage transform your thoughts, actions, or interactions at this time tomorrow?