Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ forever and ever. Welcome to today’s study of God’s Word as we continue with the final section of the book of Jude. Jude 1:14–15“Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: ‘Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His holy ones, to execute judgment on all, and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.’” These verses remind us that final judgment is certain. Enoch, long before the flood, foresaw the return of Christ with His saints to judge the ungodly (cf. Matthew 16:27, 2 Thessalonians 1:7–9, Revelation 19:11–16). Jude 1:16–21 warns about false believers and scoffers:“These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage. But you, beloved, remember the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.’ It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” Jude exhorts believers to remain steadfast in the faith through prayer, perseverance, and anticipation of Christ’s mercy. The Three Types of False Teachers Earlier, we learned about three categories of false workers that Satan has planted in God’s church—those compared to “wandering stars” destined for eternal darkness, “fruitless trees twice dead,” and “dangerous hidden reefs” (Jude 1:12–13). These are likened to “weeds among the wheat” (Matthew 13:24–30). Jude 1:11 names them:“Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam’s error and perished in Korah’s rebellion.” Cain represents jealousy, hatred, and self-righteousness (1 John 3:12). Balaam symbolizes greed and corrupt teaching for personal profit (2 Peter 2:15, Revelation 2:14). Korah stands for rebellion against God’s appointed leadership (Numbers 16:1–35). These influences still operate in churches today, deceiving many. False teachers are often difficult to detect because they mix truth with error (2 Corinthians 11:13–15). Scoffers in the Last Days Jude warns that in the last days there will be scoffers who mock God’s promises. The Apostle Peter confirms this: 2 Peter 3:3–4“Scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. They will say, ‘Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.’” Just as Korah and his followers mocked God’s plan during Israel’s wilderness journey, many professing Christians today deride the promise of Christ’s return, forgetting that God’s timing is perfect (2 Peter 3:8–9). His delay reflects His mercy, giving people time to repent. But judgment will come suddenly:2 Peter 3:10 – “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.” A Call to Stand Firm Jude urges believers to make their calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10). Many start their faith journey well—praying, fasting, showing compassion, walking humbly, and fearing God’s Word—but drift away after embracing false teachings. Spiritual fervor fades, and Christ becomes secondary in their lives. Such individuals must urgently return to “the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3). Satan’s throne is at the heart of these deceptions (Revelation 2:13–14). Therefore, believers must cultivate a personal relationship with God, grounded in Scripture, and persevere in faith. Jude 1:24–25 offers a prayer of assurance:“Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Key Takeaways Stay vigilant against false teachers and teachings. Build your faith through prayer in the Holy Spirit. Remain in God’s love as you wait for Christ’s return. Encourage the doubting, rescue those in danger, and maintain holiness (Jude 1:22–23). This is the hour to “fight the good fight of the faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). Christ is coming soon to judge the ungodly and reward the faithful (Revelation 22:12). May the Lord keep us steadfast until that day. Amen.
Welcome back to the continuation of our study in the Book of Jude. As we saw in Part 1, Jude, a servant of the Lord, warned God’s people to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3). These warnings were not given to everyone (both the righteous and the wicked), but specifically to the people of God—the called ones (Christians). Keep that in mind as we continue with the following verses: Jude 1:7–13“As Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of dignitaries.Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’But these speak evil of whatever they do not know; and whatever they know naturally, like brute beasts, in these things they corrupt themselves.Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit, and perished in the rebellion of Korah.These are spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots;raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.” Jude describes these false teachers as rebellious and spiritually defiled—people who reject authority, follow the desires of the flesh, and blaspheme heavenly beings. He compares them to wandering stars, destined for the blackness of darkness forever. He identifies them with Cain, Balaam, and Korah, three figures whose paths reveal the nature of apostasy. The Way of Cain Cain was not part of the holy lineage. From the beginning, his actions reflected rebellion. While Abel, the true son of Adam, offered an acceptable sacrifice by faith (Genesis 4:4; Hebrews 11:4), Cain’s sacrifice was rejected, and in his jealousy, he murdered his brother (Genesis 4:5–8). His descendants carried on his legacy of violence and disobedience. Lamech, one of Cain’s descendants, boasted: “If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.” (Genesis 4:23) The lineage of Cain became known as the “sons of men,” while the descendants of Seth (Adam’s other son) were known as the “sons of God” (Genesis 4:25–26; 6:2). The “sons of God” fell into sin when they intermarried with the daughters of men, corrupting the godly line and provoking God to bring the flood (Genesis 6:1–7). This was not angels marrying humans, as some claim, because Jesus said angels do not marry (Matthew 22:30). The sin was the intermingling of the holy lineage with the ungodly, leading to widespread corruption. Even today, Satan uses “the way of Cain” to lead believers astray. He promotes compromise through false religious leaders who twist Scripture, normalize sin, and entice Christians to adopt worldly practices—just as Solomon was led astray by foreign women (1 Kings 11:1–4). Teachings that say, “God only looks at the heart, not outward appearance,” are used to justify immodesty and sinful lifestyles. But as Peter warns, “Like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves in all your behavior” (1 Peter 1:15–16). The Error of Balaam Balaam was a prophet (Numbers 22–24), yet he loved the wages of unrighteousness (2 Peter 2:15). Though he initially obeyed God’s command not to curse Israel, his greed drove him to seek another way to bring Israel down. He advised Balak, king of Moab, to seduce Israel with Moabite women, leading them into idolatry and immorality. As a result, 24,000 Israelites died under God’s judgment (Numbers 25:1–9; Revelation 2:14). Balaam represents false prophets who mix true prophetic gifts with corrupt motives. They may perform miracles and deliver accurate prophecies, but their hearts are not loyal to God. They lure God’s people into spiritual adultery—mixing the worship of the true God with idolatrous practices. Many modern teachers promise material blessings while leading believers away from holiness, making them friends with the world (James 4:4). Jesus warned the church at Pergamum about such teachings: “But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam… to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” (Revelation 2:14–16) The Rebellion of Korah Korah, a Levite, led a rebellion against Moses, claiming that all the people were holy and that Moses had no right to lead them (Numbers 16:1–3). He rejected God’s appointed authority and sought to establish his own leadership. As judgment, the earth opened and swallowed Korah and his followers alive (Numbers 16:31–33). Korah symbolizes religious leaders who reject God’s authority and distort His Word for personal gain. They deny the way of the cross, replacing it with messages of comfort and material prosperity. Like Korah, they tell people, “You’re already holy—no need to repent or carry your cross.” Yet Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24) A Call to Watchfulness Jude’s warning echoes Peter’s: 2 Peter 2:1–3“But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies… And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words…” The church today faces the same dangers. False teachers are “clouds without water” and “trees without fruit,” offering no life or nourishment. They promise freedom but are themselves slaves of corruption (2 Peter 2:19). Believers must remain vigilant, holding fast to the faith delivered once for all. “Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure; for if you do these things you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10) Have you secured your calling and election? Are you contending for the faith? If not, repent and return to the Lord today. God bless you. For prayer, counsel, or service schedules, contact:+255693036618 / +255789001312
Welcome to the study of the Word of God. Today we are looking at the book of Jude, a short epistle filled with urgent warnings for the church of today. The author, Jude, is not Judas Iscariot—the disciple who betrayed Jesus—nor Jude, one of the twelve apostles, but Jude, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ by birth (Mark 6:3). Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he wrote this brief letter addressed specifically to “those who are called”—that is, Christians—not to the whole unbelieving world. Today, we will study verses Jude 1:1–6, and, God willing, continue with the following verses in later parts. Scripture Reading: Jude 1:1–6 1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:2 May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.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.5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe.6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day. Understanding the Audience Jude makes it clear that his epistle is addressed to believers—those who have already placed their faith in Christ. This means the warnings and exhortations contained here apply to all of us who claim to be in the faith. He reminds us that even though we may already know these truths, we need to be reminded (2 Peter 1:12–13). Why? Because forgetting leads to spiritual complacency. Contend for the Faith (v. 3) Jude urges believers to “contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.”This faith was given once for all—it is not to be altered, added to, or redefined. As Paul says in Galatians 1:8–9, “If anyone preaches to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” To contend for the faith means to: Stand firm in the truth of God’s Word. Resist false teachings and ungodly influences. Persevere in belief and practice, no matter the opposition. Losing this faith is dangerous because there is no “second delivery.” If we abandon the truth, we may not get another opportunity to receive it (Hebrews 6:4–6). A Warning from Israel’s History (v. 5) Jude uses the example of Israel: although God delivered them from Egypt, “He later destroyed those who did not believe.” Paul echoes this warning in 1 Corinthians 10:1–12, reminding us that all the Israelites experienced God’s salvation, yet many were struck down in the wilderness because of: Idolatry (Exodus 32:1–6; 1 Corinthians 10:7) Sexual immorality (Numbers 25:1–9; 1 Corinthians 10:8) Testing the Lord (Numbers 21:4–9; 1 Corinthians 10:9) Grumbling and discontentment (Numbers 14:1–29; 1 Corinthians 10:10) These things happened as examples for us so that we might not desire evil as they did. Paul concludes with a sobering reminder:“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). Obstacles That Lead to Falling Away IdolatryLike Israel, many Christians are tempted to fashion “golden calves” in their own lives—modern idols such as money, fame, or even religious images. God forbids such worship (Exodus 20:3–5; 1 John 5:21). Sexual ImmoralityJust as Israel fell into sin with foreign women, sexual sin continues to shipwreck the faith of many believers today (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5; Hebrews 13:4). Grumbling and DiscontentmentComplaining against God shows a lack of trust in His sovereignty. Instead, believers are commanded to “do all things without grumbling or disputing” (Philippians 2:14). Testing God and Coveting EvilMany Christians fail to trust God’s plan, longing instead for the fleeting pleasures of the world. “Friendship with the world is enmity with God” (James 4:4). The Danger of False Teachers (v. 4) Jude warns of ungodly people who have crept in unnoticed—spiritual impostors who: Twist God’s grace into a license for immorality (Romans 6:1–2; Titus 2:11–12). Deny the Lordship of Jesus Christ, rejecting His authority over their lives (2 Peter 2:1–3). These people are like weeds among the wheat (Matthew 13:24–30), awaiting certain judgment. Even Angels Were Not Spared (v. 6) If God did not spare the angels who sinned—casting them into chains of darkness until the final judgment (2 Peter 2:4; Revelation 20:10)—how much more will He judge humans who trample His grace? A Call to Perseverance We are on a spiritual journey. Just as Israel left Egypt but only Joshua and Caleb entered the Promised Land, not all who start will finish. Jesus Himself said:“The one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Let us, therefore: Guard our faith with diligence (2 Timothy 4:7–8). Make our calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10–11). Remain fervent, not lukewarm (Revelation 3:15–16). Conclusion: Urgency to Repent The time is short. Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready to meet Him?Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Repent, renew your faith, and hold fast to the truth that was entrusted to you once for all. “Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by Him without spot or blemish, and at peace” (2 Peter 3:14). May God bless you richly