God's Glory Church

“And to those who hesitate, be merciful.” — Jude 1:22

The invitation to dinner from church leader Harold and his wife Pam warmed my heart and made me a little nervous at the same time. The thing is, I joined a Bible study group in college that taught ideas that contradicted some of the Bible’s teachings. “Will they reproach me for this?”

We ate pizza. Harold and Pam talked about their family and asked about mine. They listened attentively as I talked about my homework, my dog, and the boy I was in love with. Only later did they gently admonish me about the group I attended and explain what was wrong with its teachings.

Their warning turned me away from the false teaching presented at that group and brought me closer to the truths of Scripture. In his letter, Jude uses strong expressions against false teachers and calls believers to “fight for the faith” (Jude 1:3). He reminded that “in the last time there will be delusions… [which] are separated from unity… [and] do not have the spirit” (vv. 18-19). At the same time, Jude calls believers to be merciful to those “who hesitate” (v. 22), showing compassion, but not yielding to the truth.

Harold and Pam knew that I was not yet strong in my faith, so instead of judging me, they first offered me their friendship and then their wisdom. May God grant us love and patience, that we may show wisdom and compassion in dealing with those who have doubts.

Who can you help deal with doubts about faith? How can you lovingly guide them to the truths of Scripture?

Heavenly Father, I need Your wisdom and Your guidance to help those who have been hurt by false teaching. Please give me the words I need.

Author: Karen Huang