Jude 1 Commentary: Contending for the Faith in a World of Deception
Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:
Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied.
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.
Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.
Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.
But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;
How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.
These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
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.
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.
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.
The book of Jude, though short, is a powerful and urgent call to believers to stand firm in the truth amidst a rising tide of false teaching. Jude writes with a sense of urgency, compelled by the Holy Spirit to address a critical threat to the church. In this single-chapter letter, Jude doesn't shy away from confronting the dangers of apostasy and urging his readers to actively defend the faith. Let's delve into Jude 1 and explore its timeless message for believers today.
Context: The Battle for Truth
Jude's letter is a stark warning against those who distort the gospel and lead others astray. These false teachers, as highlighted in other New Testament writings (1_John 2:22; 4:1–3; 2_Peter 2), promote dangerous ideas, such as the denial of Jesus' full divinity or humanity, the abuse of God's grace as a license for immorality (Romans 6:1, 15; 2_Peter 2), and the inadequacy of Jesus' sacrifice (Galatians 1:6–9; Hebrews 3:12–19; 10:19). They might also claim that righteousness comes through adherence to the law of Moses (Galatians 5:4, 7–9). Jude's purpose is clear: to expose these errors and equip believers to "contend for the faith" (Jude 1:3).
Jude's Introduction: A Servant's Heart (Jude 1:1-2)
Jude identifies himself as "a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James" (Jude 1:1). Notably, he doesn't highlight his relationship as a half-brother of Jesus (Mark 6:3), demonstrating humility and emphasizing his role as a bond-servant of Christ. Like Paul (Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1), Jude sees himself as radically submitted to Jesus' Lordship. This sets the tone for his letter – a call to submission and obedience to the true Lord.
He addresses his audience as "to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:1). This description offers assurance to true believers, reminding them of their secure position in God's love and protection. They are chosen, cherished, and preserved by God Himself. Jude then offers a prayerful blessing: "May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you" (Jude 1:2). This isn't just a polite greeting, but a heartfelt desire for God's abundant grace to be poured out upon them, empowering them to face the challenges ahead.
The Urgent Call to Contend (Jude 1:3-4)
Jude explains that his original intention was to write about their common salvation. However, the pressing threat of apostasy compelled him to change his focus. He writes, "I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 1:3). The word "contend" implies a vigorous, energetic defense of the truth. It's not a passive acceptance, but an active engagement in protecting the "faith" – the core doctrines and beliefs of Christianity – which has been entrusted to believers.
The reason for this urgent call becomes clear in Jude 1:4: "For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." These "ungodly people" have infiltrated the church, subtly twisting the message of grace into a justification for immoral living and rejecting Jesus' authority over their lives (Luke 6:46). They are deceivers, masquerading as genuine followers of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). Jude emphasizes that true grace doesn't lead to licentiousness but empowers believers to live lives that are distinct from the world (Titus 2:11-12). These false teachers, however, turn grace into an excuse for sin (Romans 6:1-7; Titus 2:11-14).
Past Rebels: Lessons from History (Jude 1:5-11)
To illustrate the dangers of rebellion and the certainty of God's judgment, Jude provides three historical examples of those who defied God's authority and suffered the consequences.
- The Disobedient Israelites (Jude 1:5): Jude reminds his readers that even though God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He later destroyed those who did not believe. Despite witnessing God's power and provision, they ultimately faced judgment for their unbelief. Only Joshua and Caleb entered the promised land.
- The Fallen Angels (Jude 1:6): He also points to the angelic rebellion, where angels abandoned their proper dwelling and are now kept in eternal chains for judgment. This serves as a warning against pride and the rejection of God's established order. Lucifer led a coup d’état and was followed by angels who abandoned their proper dwelling. Now they’re kept in eternal chains for judgment.
- Sodom and Gomorrah (Jude 1:7): Jude cites the sexual immorality of Sodom and Gomorrah as an example of the eternal fire that awaits those who embrace and legitimize evil. God's judgment on these cities is a clear demonstration of His intolerance for wickedness.
Jude further describes the characteristics of these false teachers, highlighting their rejection of authority and their slanderous speech (Jude 1:8). He contrasts their behavior with that of the archangel Michael, who, even in disputing with the devil over Moses' body, refrained from uttering a slanderous accusation (Jude 1:9). Instead, Michael deferred to God's authority, saying, "The Lord rebuke you!" The false teachers, however, operate out of a lack of understanding and spiritual discernment, acting like irrational animals driven by instinct (Jude 1:10).
Jude compares them to Cain, who offered a bloodless offering; Balaam, who ministered for money; and Korah, who rejected the authority of God's word (Jude 1:11). Like these figures, the false teachers are driven by selfish ambition and a disregard for God's commands, ultimately leading them to destruction.
The Character and Doom of False Teachers (Jude 1:12-16)
Jude employs vivid imagery to paint a picture of the destructive nature of these heretics. He likens them to:
- Hidden reefs: Dangerous and deceptive, posing a threat to unsuspecting believers. These are hidden dangers to ships.
- Waterless clouds: Promising refreshment but delivering nothing of substance.
- Fruitless trees: Devoid of spiritual value and incapable of producing good fruit.
- Wild waves: Foaming up shameful deeds and leaving a trail of destruction.
- Wandering stars: Leading others astray and destined for eternal darkness.
Jude emphasizes that God takes false teachers seriously, and eternal darkness is reserved for them (Jude 1:13).
He also references Enoch's prophecy about the Lord's coming judgment against the ungodly (Jude 1:14-15). Jude stresses the pervasive "ungodliness" of these individuals, highlighting their ungodly deeds, ungodly ways, and ungodly words. They exploit others through flattery and manipulation, using their positions to satisfy their own selfish desires (Jude 1:16).
A Call to Remembrance and Discernment (Jude 1:17-19)
Jude urges his readers to "remember the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:17). He reminds them that the apostles forewarned of scoffers and mockers who would arise, driven by their own ungodly passions. These individuals are divisive, creating factions and hindering God's work (Jude 1:19). They don't view life from a spiritual perspective. Jude underscores the importance of adhering to the teachings of the apostles, found in the Word of God, as a safeguard against deception. It is essential to "test the Spirits" (1 John 4:1) to discern what is legitimate and what is not. If you are led by a blind teacher on spiritual matters, you’ll wind up falling into a ditch with him.
Exhortations for Believers: Building Up and Reaching Out (Jude 1:20-23)
Jude provides practical steps for believers to protect themselves from the influence of false teachers and to remain steadfast in the faith.
- Build yourselves up in your most holy faith (Jude 1:20): This involves actively growing in knowledge and understanding of God's Word, rather than remaining stagnant in your faith.
- Pray in the Holy Spirit (Jude 1:20): Pray with a spiritual mindset, in concert with God's desires and God's design based on God’s Word.
- Keep yourselves in the love of God (Jude 1:21): Live with an eternal perspective and in a close relationship with the Lord, trusting in His mercy for eternal life.
Jude also emphasizes the importance of extending mercy and compassion to others, particularly those who are wavering in their faith (Jude 1:22). He instructs believers to "snatch [others] from the fire" (Jude 1:23), helping them to escape destructive behaviors and relationships. However, he cautions them to "hate even the garment stained by the flesh," emphasizing the need to maintain purity and avoid being dragged down by the sins of others. Reject the sin; help the sinner.
A Doxology of Hope and Assurance (Jude 1:24-25)
Jude concludes his letter with a glorious doxology, a hymn of praise to God. He affirms that God is "able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy" (Jude 1:24). This is a powerful reminder that God is not only able to protect believers from deception but also to purify and perfect them, presenting them faultless before His throne.
The closing words, "to him be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen" (Jude 1:25), emphasize God's eternal power and sovereignty. He has the attributes, the position, and the legitimate right to get you through whatever challenges confront you and the moral decay in the world around you. This doxology serves as a powerful affirmation of God's ability to sustain and preserve His people, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.
Jude's letter is a timeless reminder of the importance of standing firm in the truth, actively contending for the faith, and trusting in God's power to protect and preserve us. In a world filled with deception and moral decay, Jude 1 offers hope, encouragement, and a clear path for believers to navigate the challenges of our time.
Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:
Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied.
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.
Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.
Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.
And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.
But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;
How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.
These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
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.
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.
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.
The book of Jude, though short, is a powerful and urgent call to believers to stand firm in the truth amidst a rising tide of false teaching. Jude writes with a sense of urgency, compelled by the Holy Spirit to address a critical threat to the church. In this single-chapter letter, Jude doesn't shy away from confronting the dangers of apostasy and urging his readers to actively defend the faith. Let's delve into Jude 1 and explore its timeless message for believers today.
Context: The Battle for Truth
Jude's letter is a stark warning against those who distort the gospel and lead others astray. These false teachers, as highlighted in other New Testament writings (1_John 2:22; 4:1–3; 2_Peter 2), promote dangerous ideas, such as the denial of Jesus' full divinity or humanity, the abuse of God's grace as a license for immorality (Romans 6:1, 15; 2_Peter 2), and the inadequacy of Jesus' sacrifice (Galatians 1:6–9; Hebrews 3:12–19; 10:19). They might also claim that righteousness comes through adherence to the law of Moses (Galatians 5:4, 7–9). Jude's purpose is clear: to expose these errors and equip believers to "contend for the faith" (Jude 1:3).
Jude's Introduction: A Servant's Heart (Jude 1:1-2)
Jude identifies himself as "a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James" (Jude 1:1). Notably, he doesn't highlight his relationship as a half-brother of Jesus (Mark 6:3), demonstrating humility and emphasizing his role as a bond-servant of Christ. Like Paul (Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1), Jude sees himself as radically submitted to Jesus' Lordship. This sets the tone for his letter – a call to submission and obedience to the true Lord.
He addresses his audience as "to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:1). This description offers assurance to true believers, reminding them of their secure position in God's love and protection. They are chosen, cherished, and preserved by God Himself. Jude then offers a prayerful blessing: "May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you" (Jude 1:2). This isn't just a polite greeting, but a heartfelt desire for God's abundant grace to be poured out upon them, empowering them to face the challenges ahead.
The Urgent Call to Contend (Jude 1:3-4)
Jude explains that his original intention was to write about their common salvation. However, the pressing threat of apostasy compelled him to change his focus. He writes, "I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 1:3). The word "contend" implies a vigorous, energetic defense of the truth. It's not a passive acceptance, but an active engagement in protecting the "faith" – the core doctrines and beliefs of Christianity – which has been entrusted to believers.
The reason for this urgent call becomes clear in Jude 1:4: "For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." These "ungodly people" have infiltrated the church, subtly twisting the message of grace into a justification for immoral living and rejecting Jesus' authority over their lives (Luke 6:46). They are deceivers, masquerading as genuine followers of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). Jude emphasizes that true grace doesn't lead to licentiousness but empowers believers to live lives that are distinct from the world (Titus 2:11-12). These false teachers, however, turn grace into an excuse for sin (Romans 6:1-7; Titus 2:11-14).
Past Rebels: Lessons from History (Jude 1:5-11)
To illustrate the dangers of rebellion and the certainty of God's judgment, Jude provides three historical examples of those who defied God's authority and suffered the consequences.
- The Disobedient Israelites (Jude 1:5): Jude reminds his readers that even though God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He later destroyed those who did not believe. Despite witnessing God's power and provision, they ultimately faced judgment for their unbelief. Only Joshua and Caleb entered the promised land.
- The Fallen Angels (Jude 1:6): He also points to the angelic rebellion, where angels abandoned their proper dwelling and are now kept in eternal chains for judgment. This serves as a warning against pride and the rejection of God's established order. Lucifer led a coup d’état and was followed by angels who abandoned their proper dwelling. Now they’re kept in eternal chains for judgment.
- Sodom and Gomorrah (Jude 1:7): Jude cites the sexual immorality of Sodom and Gomorrah as an example of the eternal fire that awaits those who embrace and legitimize evil. God's judgment on these cities is a clear demonstration of His intolerance for wickedness.
Jude further describes the characteristics of these false teachers, highlighting their rejection of authority and their slanderous speech (Jude 1:8). He contrasts their behavior with that of the archangel Michael, who, even in disputing with the devil over Moses' body, refrained from uttering a slanderous accusation (Jude 1:9). Instead, Michael deferred to God's authority, saying, "The Lord rebuke you!" The false teachers, however, operate out of a lack of understanding and spiritual discernment, acting like irrational animals driven by instinct (Jude 1:10).
Jude compares them to Cain, who offered a bloodless offering; Balaam, who ministered for money; and Korah, who rejected the authority of God's word (Jude 1:11). Like these figures, the false teachers are driven by selfish ambition and a disregard for God's commands, ultimately leading them to destruction.
The Character and Doom of False Teachers (Jude 1:12-16)
Jude employs vivid imagery to paint a picture of the destructive nature of these heretics. He likens them to:
- Hidden reefs: Dangerous and deceptive, posing a threat to unsuspecting believers. These are hidden dangers to ships.
- Waterless clouds: Promising refreshment but delivering nothing of substance.
- Fruitless trees: Devoid of spiritual value and incapable of producing good fruit.
- Wild waves: Foaming up shameful deeds and leaving a trail of destruction.
- Wandering stars: Leading others astray and destined for eternal darkness.
Jude emphasizes that God takes false teachers seriously, and eternal darkness is reserved for them (Jude 1:13).
He also references Enoch's prophecy about the Lord's coming judgment against the ungodly (Jude 1:14-15). Jude stresses the pervasive "ungodliness" of these individuals, highlighting their ungodly deeds, ungodly ways, and ungodly words. They exploit others through flattery and manipulation, using their positions to satisfy their own selfish desires (Jude 1:16).
A Call to Remembrance and Discernment (Jude 1:17-19)
Jude urges his readers to "remember the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:17). He reminds them that the apostles forewarned of scoffers and mockers who would arise, driven by their own ungodly passions. These individuals are divisive, creating factions and hindering God's work (Jude 1:19). They don't view life from a spiritual perspective. Jude underscores the importance of adhering to the teachings of the apostles, found in the Word of God, as a safeguard against deception. It is essential to "test the Spirits" (1 John 4:1) to discern what is legitimate and what is not. If you are led by a blind teacher on spiritual matters, you’ll wind up falling into a ditch with him.
Exhortations for Believers: Building Up and Reaching Out (Jude 1:20-23)
Jude provides practical steps for believers to protect themselves from the influence of false teachers and to remain steadfast in the faith.
- Build yourselves up in your most holy faith (Jude 1:20): This involves actively growing in knowledge and understanding of God's Word, rather than remaining stagnant in your faith.
- Pray in the Holy Spirit (Jude 1:20): Pray with a spiritual mindset, in concert with God's desires and God's design based on God’s Word.
- Keep yourselves in the love of God (Jude 1:21): Live with an eternal perspective and in a close relationship with the Lord, trusting in His mercy for eternal life.
Jude also emphasizes the importance of extending mercy and compassion to others, particularly those who are wavering in their faith (Jude 1:22). He instructs believers to "snatch [others] from the fire" (Jude 1:23), helping them to escape destructive behaviors and relationships. However, he cautions them to "hate even the garment stained by the flesh," emphasizing the need to maintain purity and avoid being dragged down by the sins of others. Reject the sin; help the sinner.
A Doxology of Hope and Assurance (Jude 1:24-25)
Jude concludes his letter with a glorious doxology, a hymn of praise to God. He affirms that God is "able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy" (Jude 1:24). This is a powerful reminder that God is not only able to protect believers from deception but also to purify and perfect them, presenting them faultless before His throne.
The closing words, "to him be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen" (Jude 1:25), emphasize God's eternal power and sovereignty. He has the attributes, the position, and the legitimate right to get you through whatever challenges confront you and the moral decay in the world around you. This doxology serves as a powerful affirmation of God's ability to sustain and preserve His people, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.
Jude's letter is a timeless reminder of the importance of standing firm in the truth, actively contending for the faith, and trusting in God's power to protect and preserve us. In a world filled with deception and moral decay, Jude 1 offers hope, encouragement, and a clear path for believers to navigate the challenges of our time.