The short book of Jude comes right before Revelation, containing only one chapter, but how convicting! Who is Jude, you may be asking? Would you believe he was the half-brother of Jesus? Jude, short for Judas, was indeed related to Jesus, and yet he humbly introduces himself here as Jesus’ slave. Following Jesus’ resurrection, Jude began his own ministry to believers.
Jude’s message may be hard for us to hear. We are called, sanctified, and preserved. That part is quite comforting. And I’m going to cling to Jude’s prayer for us that “God give you more and more mercy, peace, and love.” The hard part is that even our holiest places may not be completely sacred if infested by false teachers and misguided friends.
Jude reminds us of what happened to those who have gone astray in the past. Those who lost faith were cast aside, meant to endure a life in chains. They were back from the wonderful life God had planned for them. That certainly doesn’t sound like a pleasant way to spend our time on earth.
Jude brought up history that the early believers would have been familiar with. To us, some of his Biblical examples seem distant. For Jude’s first audience, it would have been well understood that the law was important, and that being obedient to God’s law was not optional to stay in God’s good graces. Many people chose to turn their backs on God then, just like they are in our day.
From Jude’s tone, he didn’t appreciate those indifferent to God. The description of their peril may seem a bit harsh, but Jude wasn’t sugar-coating how hard it would be to live an obedient life. He was using this reminder to show us the downside and agony we’d face if we fell prey to the evil one’s schemes and joined in with those non-believers.
A time is coming, as foretold by Enoch, when God will “execute judgment on the people of the world.” It may not be until that instant when some people realize the wrong they have done or are doing. Could they be the “grumblers and complainers” we see all over social media, discontent with one thing or another? That’s the image Jude’s words conjure for me.
Jude doesn’t leave us empty-handed but tells us exactly how we can be immune to these scoffers. Verses 20-21 counsel us: “But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love.” When frustration or confusion sets in, revisit this verse and surround yourself with people who build up your faith, not tear it down. The power of the Holy Spirit is without limit, and the mercy of Christ Jesus abounds.
Through it all, we need to extend mercy and grace to others whose faith may be wavering. Jude warns us to be careful. We are told to “hate” the sins that contaminate our friends. I think immediately of the apostle Paul’s counsel in Galatians 6:1, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.” When our mindset is firm, we are less likely to waver.
In closing, Jude asks God’s blessing on all believers and also blesses God. What a great example for us to always ask God to help others and give glory to God! Look around your community of believers. Who needs encouragement from you and Jesus today?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, all glory to you who has saved me and sent your Spirit to guide and protect me. I stand in awe of your majesty, power, and authority that remain steadfast and true forever and ever. Forgive my weaknesses and failures. Empower me for your service. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
