SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - "AFFIRM YOUR FAITH" PT I - JUDE 1:1-4 (MSG)

Series: In Your Assignment

Sermon Title: Affirm Your Faith PT I

Text: Jude 1:1–4 (The Message Version)Theme: Hidden Manna

🔑 Main Message:

Whether you’re struggling with doubt, distractions, or disappointment—you can affirm your faith by getting grounded in your identity, your values, and your source of truth.

1. ESTABLISH YOUR CALL (v. 1)

“Loved by God... Called and kept safe by Jesus Christ.”

🧭 What It Means:

You are not here by accident. God has called you with purpose, just like He called Israel and the early church. That call is a divine assignment, not a spiritual vacation.

💡 For Christians:

• You are called to follow, obey, and live faithfully—not to coast.

• Being kept safe in Jesus doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means staying connected to Him through obedience.

💬 For Everyone (even if you’re unsure about faith):

• You matter to God.

• God is calling you to a life that’s deeper, more meaningful, and more secure than what the world offers.

🛠 Practical Application:

• Say “yes” to God’s call daily. Start each morning with: “God, what are You calling me to do today?”

• Live with purpose. Ask: Does this decision align with God’s will for my life?

2. ESTABLISH CORE VALUES (v. 2–3)

“Relax... Love is on the way... Fight with everything you have in you for this faith.”

🧭 What It Means:

Core values are what keep you anchored. Jude says to fight for your faith—not with fists, but with focus. Prayer, worship, and learning scripture are how you stay centered.

💡 For Christians:

• Faith is not fragile—but it needs attention.

• Protect what you believe by being active in worship, study, and service.

💬 For Everyone:

• Know what you stand for. If you don’t stand for something, you'll fall for anything.

• Life is full of messages—pick ones that lead to peace, love, and integrity.

🛠 Practical Application:

• Pick 3 core values you want your life to reflect (e.g., honesty, compassion, discipline). Write them down and live them out.

• Set aside time weekly for prayer, reflection, or community worship.

3. ESTABLISH YOUR SOURCE (v. 4)

“Some people have infiltrated... replacing grace with license.”

🧭 What It Means:

You must know the difference between real faith and fake faith. Not everyone who sounds spiritual is aligned with Christ. Don’t let comfort or culture confuse your convictions.

💡 For Christians:

• Scripture and tradition help you spot truth from distortion.

• Don’t twist grace into permission to live however you want—grace empowers obedience.

💬 For Everyone:

• Be careful where you get your truth. Social media, influencers, or even some churches may mislead.

• Ask: Is this leading me toward truth and transformation—or just comfort and convenience?

🛠 Practical Application:

• Compare what you hear to what the Bible says. If it contradicts God’s Word or encourages selfishness, question it.

• Join a Bible study or discussion group where faith is examined, not assumed.

✨ Final Encouragement:

To affirm your faith means to own it, live it, and protect it—especially in confusing or challenging times. Whether you’re new to faith or a seasoned believer, Jude’s message is clear:

💬 “Don’t give up. Stay alert. Hold fast to what’s true.”