The Danger of Indifference

Read Jude 1:5-7.

Jude provides us three examples that serve as warnings against indifference to the false teachers in our midst.

First, Jude reminds his readers that “the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe” (Jude 1:5). God had promised His people victory over their enemies. Even so, ten of the twelve Israelite spies sent into the land reported that the natives were too strong (see Numbers 13). Instead of trusting in the God who had brought them out of slavery in Egypt, the people doubted Him. As a result, they wandered the desert another thirty-eight years (see Deuteronomy 2:14). This is why we must not be silent when the church is departing from God’s Word. Our apathy can rob us of experiencing God’s best for us—His power for victory—when we allow ourselves to be swept away from Truth.

Next, Jude warns us with the example of the angels “who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling” (Jude 1:6). When Satan was thrown out of heaven, he managed to deceive one third of the angels (see Revelation 12:4). Similarly, many a Christian leader has wandered from the faith due to their apathy—and invited others to come along. It always starts with a failure to contend for the faith. I am not saying these souls have lost their salvation, but they have wandered from the Truth and therefore suffer a loss of position (see James 5:19).

Finally, Jude notes the people of Sodom and Gomorrah, who “gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion” (Jude 1:7). Abraham’s nephew, Lot, looked toward Sodom (Genesis 13:10). Lot’s apathy brought him closer and closer to Sodom until he eventually became a resident (see 19:1-3). Even though Lot was distressed by the sinfulness that surrounded him (see 2 Peter 2:7-8), he did nothing about it. When the city was judged with fire from heaven, Lot lost everything, including his wife. His spiritual apathy cost him his place of privilege.

Loss of power, position, and privilege. That’s what spiritual apathy can do. But when we contend for the faith, we serve our mighty King.

Prayer: God, I pray against apathy in my life and ask for Your wisdom and love to guide me in sharing the hope of Christ with those inside and outside the church. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.