The believer’s position in Christ:
- Sanctified by God
- Set apart and dear to Him
- Preserved in Jesus Christ
- Called
Jude 1:3-6 gives the reason for the writing of this book. It says, “Earnestly contend for the faith.” Why should we do this? “Because some men have sneaked into the church unnoticed.” They are ungodly. They abuse the grace of God (See Rom 6) and they deny or disown our only Master & Lord Jesus Christ. As it was then, so it is now.
The Sin and Destiny of Godless Men
In Jude 1:5-7, we have some historical instances of apostasy:
- Israel and their unbelief.
- Fallen angels and their rebellion/disobedience (see Jude 1:6).
- Sodom & Gomorrah and moral defilement/uncleanness (see Jude 1:7).
These examples give us a clear definition of apostasy.
Jude 1:8 gives a description of apostate teachers. These modern men are like the apostates of history. They pollute human nature, set authority at naught, and set at naught heavenly beings.
Jude 1:9-10 gives a warning against speaking evil of those in authority.
Jude 1:11 shows the way of Cain as self righteous and willful. It also mentions the error of Balaam, which was greed, and the rebellion of Korah, which was presumption.
Jude 1:12 gives further description of these godless men. They are rainless clouds, fruitless trees, raging waves, and stars that follow no orbit.
Jude 1:13-15 shows that there will be an end to these men.
Jude 1:16 describes these false teachers as being dissatisfied with life. They are guided by their own passions (libertines). They are orators who show respect unto some for the sake of advantage (flattering). (Remember the words of James)
The Perseverance of Believers
In Jude 1:17, Jude urges his readers to remember the words spoken and written by the apostles.
Jude 1:18 says the apostles affirm that there will be mockers in the last days who will obey their own ungodly lusts.
Jude 1:19 says that they will cause divisions. They will act as natural men, not possessing the Spirit.
Jude 1:20-23 reveals the Christian’s conduct in light of this: Make the most holy faith the foundation of life, continue to pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and keep within the love of God, where He can bless you, while awaiting the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you into the fullness of eternal life.
Our attitude to those caught up in this error:
Jude 1:22 says, “And on some have mercy, who are in doubt.”
Jude 1:23 says, “Save others, snatching them out of the fire.”
Jude 1:24-25 concludes with the benediction.