Written by Jude, c. AD 70-80
In response to the infiltration of false teachers who deny the necessity of obedience to Christ and promote a life of licentiousness, Jude, the brother of James (and therefore the half-brother of Jesus) writes so these believers (mostly Jewish) vigilantly defend the faith in doctrine and practice.
Verses 1-16 The Danger of False Teachers
Writing to those “kept” by God’s persevering love, Jude mentions his purpose for the letter: to warn against those who were tainting the purity of their shared salvation. Circumstances mandated a strong warning, for ungodly men have smuggled themselves into the congregation. They are recognized by their encouragement toward licentiousness and denial of Christ as the one and only “Master.” Based on God’s treatment of past rebellion, Jude warns these false teachers of judgment against them as against all unredeemed.
Verses 17-25 The Duties of BelieversTo help his readers battle against the false teachers, Jude encourages them to remember the words and teaching of the apostles. An attitude of love toward one another and to reflect the love of God toward others will fight off the practice of falsehood. They are also to pray in the power of the Spirit, and to look for the mercy of God toward them in their lives, while showing mercy toward others. Jude closes by praising God for His persevering work in their lives, which will ultimately bring them into eternal joy and glory.
Key Verse: Jude 3
“Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once and for all delivered to the saints.”
