In verse 20, Jude advises us to "build yourselves up on your most holy faith; praying in the Holy Spirit."'

1. What is "praying in the Holy Spirit?"
1. A specific, particular way for Christians to pray (Jude 20).
2. Different from praying and singing with the mind and understanding (1 Co 14:15).
3. One of the characteristics of the New Testament Church that is synonymous with "praying in tongues" (I Co 14:14; Mark 16:17; Acts 2:4, 10:46, 19:6).
4. Part of a fulfillment of prophecy (Acts 2:1421; Joel 2:28,29).
2. 2. What does praying in the Spirit accomplish?
1. Public use as a "message in tongues" (I Co 14:125).
1. For the edification of the congregation when:
1. Coupled with the interpretation (I Co 14:27,28).
2. Biblically judged as to content, timing, etc. (I Co 14:29).
3. Ministered in love (I Co 13).
2. As a sign to the non Christian (I Co 14:2225).
2. B. Private use.
1. Strengthening the individual doing the praying  specifically in faith (Jude 20); edification (I Co 14:4); "rest and refreshing" (I Co 14:21; Is 28:112).
2. Supernatural means of expressing prayer, thanks, and worship to the Lord (I Co 14:2,15,17; Acts 2:11).
3. Supernatural means of prayer for God's will to be accomplished (Ro 8:26,27; 1 Co 14:14).
1. Not for our own desires, but for God's.
2. For unknown needs.
4. Insight into how God combines the work of His Spirit and human cooperation/activity (Acts 2:4; 2 Co 4:7).
3. How do I speak in tongues?
1. Private use
1. Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; Lu 11:13). Note the synonymous terms  being filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4); the promise of the Father (Acts 1:4); baptism with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1: 5); the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:3 8).
2. Receive by faith (Heb 11: 6; Acts 2:3 9).
2. Public use as a "message in tongues."
1. Desire to be used in spiritual gifts (I Co 14: 1; 1 Co 12:46).
2. Ask for the Lord's will to be accomplished through you in the area of spiritual gifts (I Co 12:11).
3. Recognize the development that comes with experience and maturity (Lu 6:40).
4. Remain teachable, cooperative and sensitive (I Co 14:26-33).

(Reprinted with permission.)