“Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Jude 3-4

Confrontation is a necessary evil. No one truly enjoys it, but there are times when it is necessary in order to unify the team or organization. If coaches and leaders fail or refuse to confront wrongs, the attitude in the locker room or office can turn ugly very quickly. This reminds me of the John Wooden story involving his All-American Bill Walton. When Walton showed up for practice after a 10-day break wearing a beard, the following exchange took place. Coach Wooden says, “Bill, have you forgotten something?” Walton replies, “Coach if you mean the beard, I think I should be allowed to wear it, it’s my right.” Wooden asked, “Do you believe that strongly?” Walton shot back, “Yes I do coach, very much.” Wooden politely said, “Bill, I have great respect for individuals who stand up for those things in which they believe. We are going to miss you!”

It was necessary for Jude to confront the Lord’s people. Attacks were being made on fundamental Christian truths and the issue needed to be addressed both quickly and boldly. This was no time to compromise on biblical truth. He reminded the people that they must never compromise the inspiration, inerrancy, authority, and sufficiency of God’ Holy Word. He encouraged them to speak and act like Christians. Worldly thoughts and activities can often lead us astray. We can easily fall for the lies of false teachers. We must always be on the look out for immoral conduct and corrupt doctrine. The Jesus of the Bible cannot be replaced with some man-invented version. Nothing more can be added—God’s Word is complete.

Heavenly Father, keep me alert to the false teachings of the world. Help me to stand on Your Word only and to recognize that You are enough. It is in Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.