Jude
The Defender of the Faith
Guardian of Truth
God preserves His truth through faithful witnesses
Defender of Faith
He empowers believers to contend for the faith
Merciful Judge
His judgment is tempered with mercy for the repentant
"Contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints." - Jude 1:3
Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, wrote a powerful letter urging believers to contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.
His letter warns against false teachers who had infiltrated the church, distorting the gospel and leading believers astray. Jude calls for vigilance, discernment, and unwavering commitment to orthodox doctrine.
Contend Earnestly (v. 3):
Fight for the truth against those who distort the gospel
False Teachers (v. 4):
Ungodly intruders who pervert grace and deny Christ
Remember Warnings (v. 5-16):
Learn from past examples of rebellion and judgment
Build Yourselves Up (v. 20-23):
Pray, love, and show mercy while contending for the faith
Jude identifies himself as "a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James," likely referring to James, the leader of the Jerusalem church and author of the Epistle of James.
Both Jude and James were half-brothers of Jesus, sons of Mary and Joseph. Yet Jude humbly identifies himself as a "servant" rather than emphasizing his family connection to Christ.
This humility underscores the importance of submission to Christ and His teachings, regardless of one's background or status.