Contending for the Truth 3 John and Jude 17-23

Abstract

Gregg Bitter’s essay explores the biblical call to contend for the truth, focusing on 3 John and Jude 17–23. He highlights how Christian fellowship, grounded in the truth of God’s Word, is not merely doctrinal agreement but a living, active relationship of love, support, and shared mission. Through exegetical insights and pastoral application, Bitter contrasts faithful believers like Gaius and Demetrius with divisive figures like Diotrephes and the mockers described in Jude. He emphasizes the dangers of false teaching, the importance of spiritual discernment, and the need for humility, prayer, and mutual encouragement in the face of opposition. The essay calls believers to remain rooted in God’s love, build one another up in faith, and show mercy to those wavering, all while upholding the truth without compromise. It is a heartfelt appeal to live and serve as coworkers for the truth in a fractured world. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).