InstaStudy

Building Up Yourself on Your Most Holy Faith: A Biblical Exploration of Praying in the Holy Ghost According to the Book of Jude.

This Bible study explores the profound exhortation in Jude to build ourselves up on our most holy faith by praying in the Holy Ghost. We will delve into the foundational truths of our faith, understand the necessity of spiritual edification, and examine the nature and power of praying in the Spirit as a vital means of spiritual growth and strength in these last days.

1. Understanding the Foundation of Our Most Holy Faith

1.1 The Apostolic Faith Once Delivered

Verses: Jude 1:3; Ephesians 4:5
  • The singular truth of the gospel delivered to the saints.
  • The importance of contending earnestly for foundational beliefs.
  • The unity of faith in one Lord, one baptism, and one God.

1.2 The Nature of the One True God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; John 14:9
  • The Lord our God is one Lord, and there is no God besides Him.
  • He who has seen Jesus has seen the Father.
  • All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Christ.

1.3 Salvation Through Jesus Christ

Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12
  • Repentance, water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and receiving the Holy Ghost are essential for salvation.
  • Baptism is a burial with Christ into His death, signifying a new life.
  • We are raised with Him through faith in the working of God.

2. The Command to Build Up Yourself

2.1 The Exhortation in Jude

Verses: Jude 1:20; 1 Corinthians 14:4
  • The direct instruction to edify oneself on our most holy faith.
  • Spiritual building is an individual responsibility and a continuous process.
  • Speaking in tongues edifies the one who speaks.

2.2 Why We Need Spiritual Edification

Verses: Ephesians 4:14; 1 Peter 5:8
  • To no longer be tossed by every wind of doctrine and cunning craftiness.
  • To resist the adversary who seeks to devour.
  • To grow in spiritual maturity and stability in our faith.

2.3 The Contrast with Ungodly Men

Verses: Jude 1:19; 2 Peter 2:1-3
  • Ungodly men cause divisions and are devoid of the Spirit.
  • False teachers introduce destructive heresies and exploit others.
  • Spiritual discernment is crucial to protect our faith and walk.

3. Praying in the Holy Ghost: The Means of Edification

3.1 What it Means to Pray in the Holy Ghost

Verses: Jude 1:20; Romans 8:26
  • It involves praying with spiritual utterance beyond human understanding.
  • The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
  • It is a direct communication with God through His indwelling Spirit.

3.2 The Experience of Receiving the Holy Ghost

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:45-46; Acts 19:6
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Ghost is speaking in other tongues.
  • This experience is for all who believe and obey God.
  • It is a distinct work of God's Spirit empowering believers.

3.3 Benefits of Praying in the Holy Ghost

Verses: 1 Corinthians 14:4; Isaiah 28:11-12
  • It builds up our spirit and strengthens our faith.
  • It provides spiritual rest and refreshing for the soul.
  • It allows for divine communication and revelation.

4. The Holy Ghost: God's Spirit Within Us

4.1 The Holy Ghost as the Spirit of God

Verses: John 14:16-18; 2 Corinthians 3:17
  • The Comforter, the Spirit of truth, abides with us and is in us.
  • Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
  • God Himself dwells within us through His Spirit.

4.2 The Holy Ghost as the Spirit of Christ

Verses: Romans 8:9-10; Galatians 4:6
  • If we have the Spirit of God, we have the Spirit of Christ.
  • Christ lives in us through His Spirit.
  • The Spirit of His Son cries 'Abba, Father' in our hearts.

4.3 The Indwelling and Empowerment of the Spirit

Verses: Acts 1:8; Ephesians 3:16
  • The Spirit empowers us to be witnesses unto the uttermost part of the earth.
  • We are strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man.
  • The Holy Ghost is God's power working in and through us.

5. Practical Application and Spiritual Growth

5.1 Continual Prayer and Spiritual Discipline

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 6:18
  • Pray without ceasing, maintaining constant communion with God.
  • Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.
  • Consistent spiritual practice is vital for sustained growth and strength.

5.2 Maintaining Purity and Holiness

Verses: Jude 1:21; Hebrews 12:14
  • Keep yourselves in the love of God, building on your most holy faith.
  • Pursue peace and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
  • The Spirit guides us into all truth and righteousness, enabling a holy walk.

5.3 Looking for the Blessed Hope

Verses: Jude 1:21; Titus 2:13
  • Looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
  • Awaiting the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
  • Our faith is anchored in the promise of His return and our eternal redemption.