Book of Jude Verse by Verse

The topic of whether the church should be careful to expose false teaching is a matter which produces strong feelings on both sides. Many will say to do so only causes division and separation in the body. Those taking this position also say that we should not mention those who teach contrary doctrine by name. They speak of it as though it is a personal attack, instead of a concern over false teaching. If we depend only on Scripture, there really isn't a debate to be had, since the Bible's authors often warned and sometimes by name. They did so with harsh warnings to those who would harm God's word, by introducing corrupt things. Jude has some of the clearest language on the topic. In his own words, he tells the readers he goes out of his way to warn them that they are to be the ones who were to "contend earnestly" for the (singular) faith. Nothing which would argue against what they were given was to change those beliefs, and the church, in general, is in mind here. Not leadership only, but the body as a whole. Those in the church are to identify error and make sure it is not able to grow. They were to contend with the error and those who came in, by stealth, with the goal of corrupting the church. What that requires is a church who knows what is true, and are able to expose what is the error at the time it is introduced. There were not expected to leave it to others, they were all to be involved. Maturity, spiritually speaking, was essential. It is the same today, as it was then. It takes people who are unafraid and motivated to safeguard themselves and their brethren. Video Credit and Much more with Pastor Chris Quintana: https://www.oldpaththeology.net/

Because this passage has some controversial content, it is often missed that Jude has much more in mind than what is a modern dispute of doctrine. Beyond what people want to make of Jude verse 6 and its likely relationship to Genesis 6, Giants, (Nephilim) etc. Jude is warning the church of evil men infiltrating their assembly. These people, with whom Jude is concerned, have come into the churches with their destructive teaching. Based on what Jude is saying, by historical examples, and his assessment of them, they will corrupt people through sensual matters as were done in times past. Some of his examples are difficult to fully understand, since the history in question leaves a couple of different interpretations, as we examine in this study. What cannot get lost in this is what he says in verse 3, which carries the rest of the letter. There is a genuine faith (beliefs) that are enshrined in God's word. Any new thing or belief people want to add is to be dismissed, since anything new is not the once-for-all Word of God. We, the church in general, are to contend earnestly for that truth. It is on us to do so, and that implies that we must know what we believe and why. Pastor Chris Quintana's website: https://www.oldpaththeology.net/

This small letter has some of the most challenging, direct and serious warnings in Scripture. The topic is in regard to "certain men" who have come into their assembly and they look the part but are, in fact, a grave danger to the spiritual health of the church. Jude's warning about these people is sharp and serious. Jude expects the church to know who they were to actively and passionately refute the false, supposed brethren. Many in the modern church do not believe such a practice as warning about wolves among the sheep should be done. The reasons are numerous, but are usually because of misunderstanding the passages they claim offer as the prohibition. Notice that Jude has no such concerns. The health of the body of believers is primary and must be defended. The whole church was to be engaged, and not some select few only. If only the modern church understood this topic from a Biblical perspective. Video Credit and Much more with Pastor Chris Quintana: https://www.oldpaththeology.net/

Jude has some very stern warnings about the dangers "certain men" (v.4) pose to the church. Most of this letter explains what they do, their motivation, and some of their personal characteristics. These are things much of the modern church says we cannot and should not do, when it comes to those who, like Jude, are concerned with what is being brought into the church. The amazing thing is the Bible, in letters written to various churches, is filled with chapters on what is coming into the church and the warnings they need to know. Jude wants everyone reading his letter to know that God's judgment has already come upon these people, and the day is sure when they will have their sentence known and put in force. The people in his audience are a counter to these people and those in the church are to know these matters, and must be able to identify the dangers represented by these men. This means a body of believers firm in what they know and who are equally able to contend for the truth. Video Credit and Much more with Pastor Chris Quintana: https://www.oldpaththeology.net/

The close of this book is as excellent as the verses previously studied. Often times we think a church needs to be protected and guarded by its leaders, and they do have that charge, however Jude helps us see that we all have a part in this. All who read this are told to "contend earnestly" for the faith which was given to all in the church, through the ages. Jude continues with another part of this where the church is to stand as a contrast to those who look to infiltrate and corrupt. It is the sign of a healthy church, in that its people know what they believe and why, chapter and verse. The church has been taught and continues to grow, line upon line and precept upon precept. The foundation is sure and any building is from that place of being placed firmly upon its cornerstone, Jesus, whom we wait for with joy and eager expectation. Until He returns we look to reach those in error, in hopes they come to a living relationship with The One who loves their soul. To Him: 24 Who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, 25 To God our Savior, Who alone is wise, Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever. Amen. Video Credit and Much more with Pastor Chris Quintana: https://www.oldpaththeology.net/