very Christian should follow Jude’s example and “contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). The definite article (the) preceding faith in this verse points to the one and only faith; there is no other faith. “The faith” refers to the apostolic body of truth God gave the church through divine revelation (see Galatians 1:23; 1 Timothy 4:1).

The Greek word translated once for all (apax) in this verse refers to something that has been done for all time, something that never needs repeating. The revelatory process was over and done with after this faith had been once for all delivered.

The word translated delivered in this verse is what Greek grammarians call an aorist passive participle, indicating an act that was completed in the past with no continuing element. It leaves no room for a new faith or body of truth communicated through psychics or channelers or cultists!

How can you and I contend for Christian truth? The word translated contend (Greek: agonia) was often used in New Testament times to refer to competition in athletic contests. The English word agony comes from the noun form. The idea behind the word is of an intense and vigorous struggle to defeat the opposition. Believers are to engage in an intense and vigorous struggle in defending Christianity.

Pearl of Wisdom: As “athletes” for God, let’s train and become equipped in God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:17), always being ready with an answer (1 Peter 3:15; see also Acts 17:2,17; 18:4,19).

[5·Minute APOLOGETICS for TODAY Ron Rhodes]