My God and My Country

Word of God

Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth from the mouth of God

Matthew 4:4

The Epistle of Jude 1:20

Study notes by John Gill

Edited/Prefaced by Doktor Riktor Von Zhades

20 But, ye beloved, edify yourselves in your most holy faith, praying in the holy Ghost.

Brethren:

Webster’s Dictionary (Eds. 1828 & 1913) define the word edify as meaning To instruct and improve the mind in knowledge generally,and particularly in moral and religious knowledge, in faith and holiness. So herein we read the words of the Apostle James exhorting us to gain knowledge in the word and to lift ourselves upwards by seeking the things of the kingdom of God. However, it is thought here as well, that we should not only lift ourselves but is implied that we act collectively in order to lift each other; strengthening and building a solid foundation on the Gospel of Christ. This is to be done so that nothing thrown against us would be able to tear down what God has built within each of us. - Dr. R.V.Z

“Meaning the doctrine of faith in all its branches, which is holy, a most holy doctrine; which displays the holiness of God, and is a means of beginning and increasing internal holiness in the saints, and of encouraging and exciting them to external holiness of life and conversation: this phrase, ‘holy faith’, is in use with the Jews; and it becomes the saints to build up one another upon this; the doctrine of faith, is a foundation to build upon, particularly what regards the person, offices, and grace of Christ, and is itself of an edifying nature; and they should not content themselves with their present knowledge of it, but seek for an improvement in it; and though they were passive when first built on Christ and his doctrines, and though ministers are greatly instruments in building of them up more and more; yet they are capable of building up themselves, and one another, by attending on the ministry of the word, and by private conversation, with each other.”

[This is to be accomplished] by praying in the Holy Ghost; which is a special means of increase and establishment in the doctrine of faith; the Holy Ghost is the author of prayer, the inditer and an assister in it; without him saints cannot call God their Father, nor pray with faith and fervency, or with freedom and liberty.” - John Gill - Theologian

Post script - A side note if you will allow. The Aramaic translation has the latter part of this scripture reading as; “ through the Holy Spirit, by means of prayer”