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Read Introduction to Jude

 

“Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries.”  

 

and speak evil of dignitaries.

The fourth earmark of apostates is that they disparage authority.

These apostates love to slander “dignitaries,” demonstrating their irreverence for authority. “Dignitaries” means, literally, glorious ones. The words “speak evil of” literally mean blaspheme, insult, slander. Apostates rail at the splendor and brightness of God’s glory. There is disrespect for anything or anyone except themselves. These apostates are always disruptive to the church.

PRINCIPLE:

Antagonism toward authority is at the heart of apostasy.

APPLICATION:

Those who reject authority are not cognizant of the principle behind authority. By rejecting authority, they reject principle. For example, the principle behind the Ten Commandments is freedom. If one’s mate commits adultery, then trust becomes a problem in marriage, and freedom to relate to each other is lost. If there is no speed limit in my neighborhood when a 25-mile-an-hour speed limit is necessary, people can drive at 50 or 60 miles an hour and put everyone in danger.

Rejection of the authority of God’s Word has serious consequences. The Bible warns us to honor authorities in the local church because that is best for the welfare of the church.

…and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 1 Th 5:13

Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. Heb 13:17

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