v.3
When I use the Blueletter Bible page on the internet, I often cross reference the verses to see the various translations of the words employed in English. There are 13 translations of the Bible that are used. In all but 2 versions, the word "contend" is employed. These include the major translations such as the NKJV, NIV and NASB. The only two other variances are helpful.
The first comes from the NLT. Those translators employ the word "defend." Defense is a great word for the context. The context is that Jude is writing about people who have infiltrated their midst, savage invaders disguised as people with no agenda. For the people of the church, the idea is to defend themselves mentally from these people. Defense, not offense. Defense keeps the opposition from advancing their ideas, from taking proverbial ground. Defense keeps the enemy from taking our homes, our children, our way of life. Too far on the metaphor? I am not so sure it's not that exactly that urgent.
The second translation is a more exact rendering from the Greek. It comes from Young's translation of the Bible and he translates the same word this way: "Agonize." Add to this that the way it is written in the Greek speaks of a continuous activity. Gosh, it sounds like hard work! "Agonize" speaks of struggle. It speaks of conflict. It speaks of a prolonged fight.
Now, why would we do this? Because our faith is the central issue to our life. By faith, we are saved and brought into the beloved. By faith, we walk daily after the heart of God for our lives. By faith, we raise children to trust in and obey Jesus Christ. Our faith is our life and therefore, it is the most valuable issue in our life.
Christian: CONTEND!
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Questions to Ponder:
1) What should be our goal in contending for the faith?
2) How important is our method for contending? Consider this in light of the fact that contentious people are often dismissed regardless of content.
3) What are effective methods for contending that you have seen modeled?
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