Jude 1:20-21 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads, "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."

This passage in the book of Jude is a powerful and encouraging message to believers, urging them to strengthen their faith, remain steadfast in their love for God, and eagerly anticipate the mercy and eternal life that will come through Jesus Christ.

The context of this passage is important to understand its full meaning and significance. The book of Jude is a short but powerful letter written by the brother of James and half-brother of Jesus, addressing false teachings and immoral behavior that had crept into the early Christian church. Jude's primary concern was to warn believers about the dangers of false teachers and encourage them to stand firm in their faith and devotion to God. In verses 1-16, Jude warns about the corrupt influences of false teachers and their impending judgment. Then, in verses 17-23, he provides practical advice for believers to contend for the faith and stay strong amidst the challenges they faced.

In verses 20-21, Jude specifically exhorts believers to take personal responsibility for building up their faith and remaining in God's love. The passage begins with the phrase, "But ye, beloved," which emphasizes the deep care and affection Jude has for the believers to whom he is writing. He encourages them to "building up yourselves on your most holy faith," signifying the importance of actively and intentionally strengthening one's faith. This involves studying and meditating on God's Word, engaging in prayer and worship, fellowshipping with other believers, and living out their faith in practical ways.

The phrase "praying in the Holy Ghost" emphasizes the need for believers to be led by the Holy Spirit in their prayer life. This means praying in accordance with God's will and being sensitive to the leading of the Spirit as they communicate with God. The Holy Spirit plays a central role in empowering believers to pray, guiding them in their spiritual growth and enabling them to live out their faith in obedience to God.

The second part of verse 21 instructs believers to "Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." This emphasizes the necessity of actively maintaining a close and intimate relationship with God, remaining steadfast in His love, and eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of His promises. Believers are called to be vigilant in guarding their hearts and minds, staying rooted in God's love, and consistently seeking His mercy and grace that leads to eternal life through Jesus Christ.

The themes present in this passage revolve around faith, prayer, love, and hope. Believers are encouraged to be proactive in building and strengthening their faith, staying connected to God through prayer, nurturing an intimate relationship with Him, and eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises. The passage also underscores the personal responsibility of believers in cultivating their spiritual growth and staying faithful to God in the face of adversity and false teachings.

Symbolism in this passage can be seen in the imagery of building and keeping. Building up one's faith represents the continuous process of spiritual growth and maturity, while keeping oneself in the love of God signifies the ongoing effort to maintain a close and intimate relationship with Him. The reference to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ points to the hope and assurance that believers have in the promise of eternal life through His sacrifice and resurrection.

In conclusion, Jude 1:20-21 from the King James Version of the Bible delivers a compelling message to believers, urging them to actively build up their faith, remain steadfast in their love for God, and eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His promises. This passage serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of personal spiritual growth, prayer, and love for God, and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.