One Size ...

... does not fit all.

And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. (Jude 1:22-23 KJV)

When sharing the gospel with others, Jude gives us a couple of examples with differing approaches.

I appreciate his beginning with compassion. I enjoy receiving compassion myself and believe I should be able to pass it along to others.

Yet there are other instances when much more effort is needed – when we fear for our loved one’s soul.

I had a pastor once who invited the youth to his home. There were hot dishes with alcohol burners sitting on metal trays on the dining table. A jostle, spilled alcohol and a fire spread across the trays. Knowing how quickly the fire could spread, pastor grabbed the tray by its handles and headed for the kitchen sink. The fire was controlled and smothered, but his hands were burned. Hands plunged into a bowl of ice, he was taken to the hospital.

When asked about his bandaged hands during the following week, I heard him explain that he had seen someone in need and he thought of Jude 23 – pulling them out of the fire.

When I read this, I do not see where we are to generate fear in the one in danger, but fear within ourselves. Often we’re afraid to speak up. We’re concerned with how we’ll appear. We might be looked upon as nosy and interfering.

We’re also afraid of the fire. It beckons with color and warmth, promising comfort yet burning with its touch. We’re afraid it will entice us until we, too, are enveloped in the flame. We forget that He is capable of protecting us as we follow His command to pull them out of the fire.

Why? Jude has that answer, too:

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 1:24-25 KJV)

I like the idea of being presented faultless.