James + Jude | Reading Plan + Study QuestionsSample

JUDE 1

GUARD AGAINST FALSE TEACHERS AND SCOFFERS

Jude begins by identifying himself as Jesus’ servant instead of Jesus’ brother. By choosing this title, Jude both shows humility and allegiance to Jesus. Jude addresses believers and encourages them to be multiplied by mercy, peace, and love.

Jude warns believers that there are people among them who are perverting God’s grace and denying Jesus. In this short, urgent letter, Jude advocates for followers of Jesus to contend for the faith and remain steadfast.

Jude condemns the corrupt leaders who are teaching lies and exploiting grace as an excuse to sin. Instead of serving as righteous leaders, they are influencers for ungodliness. Jude gives examples of God’s response to corrupt authority throughout the Old Testament. In Exodus 14, God led the Israelites out of slavery, but drowned the oppressive Egyptians. When the fallen angels rebelled against God, they were cast out of heaven. Jude mentions Sodom and Gomorrah, cities that were destroyed for their wickedness and sin.

Recalling more examples of disobedience, Jude references Cain (Genesis 4), Balaam (Numbers 22-24), and Korah (Numbers 16). These three men were known for murder, corruption, and rebellion.

Jude creatively names the false teachers of the day, calling them selfish, lazy shepherds, clouds that don’t produce rain, and fruitless trees. Their inconsistent teaching is like wild waves that throw people about, leaving them confused and disoriented. Instead of serving as guiding lights, they are like wandering stars who misdirect.

Jude references the book of Enoch, a text that was familiar to Jewish believers. From this book, Jude rebukes those who pursue their own sinful desires. Warning that many will scoff at Jesus, Jude instructs believers to cling to the truth. Because of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the more recent accounts of Jesus’ life, the believers can build themselves up in faith despite opposition.

Jude concludes by challenging the believers to have mercy on those who doubt and continually point them to the truth of Jesus. Jude praises God for his authority and perfection.

STUDY QUESTIONS

In verse 1, how did Jude describe himself? What does this tell us about him?

Who was Jude warning the believers about in verse 4? Would you consider this a current issue in the church?

In today’s culture, what does it look like to preserve the truth of Christ?

In a sentence or two, how would you summarize Jude’s overall message?

In Jude’s final words, he referred to Jesus as the one “who is able to keep you from stumbling.” What does this mean? Have you experienced this personally?

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