Jude: Contending For The Faith In Today's CultureSample

Observations

At the beginning of each session of study, I’ll have a few verses of Jude for you to read. Jot down a few of your initial observations of the verses, and then spend some time in prayer before beginning your study. 

Don’t skip this part. Observation is an imperative part of studying the Scriptures. This is where you get the chance to pay attention to the little things you’re reading so you can figure out the big picture. This is where you get to interrogate the text. Ask it questions like, Why is this there? What does this mean? Isn’t that a contradiction? Why is there a “but” here instead of an “or”? I’ve seen this word used a lot in one paragraph—I wonder why. While making observations, turn it into a conversation with God as you read so that you’re actually asking God these questions and allowing Him, by His Spirit, to lead you to the answers. Studying without observing is like cooking a meal without paying attention to the ingredients. 

Prayer: Pray for God to show you Himself as you study this week. Pray for God to give you the grace to understand the passage. Pray for God to help you apply what you learn. Pray for your time studying God’s Word to lead you to grow, not only in knowledge of God, but in love for Him as well. 

Read through all of Jude. 

OK, now that you’ve read it once, read it again. Jot down or make a mental note of any questions you might have. 

This study will require you to dive deeply into Scripture—take your time! This study will also ask questions that are meant to provoke critical thinking and personal worship. You may not have the answer to every question, and that’s OK. The goal is to develop the skills to study God’s Word and apply the truth found in Scripture to our everyday lives. 

What’s your first reaction to what you’ve read?  

What do you sense is the theme of this book? 

What words are repeated? 

Do any sentences stand out? Which ones? 

What was confusing? 

Convicting? 

Encouraging? 

What do you hope to learn from this study? Spend some time praying for that.