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Jude
BC Weekly Digest Monday, March 13 2000 In this issue: Jude 1 Jude 1:1 Jude 1:1,2 Jude 1:1 Jude 1:3-7 Jude 1:3-7 Jude 1:1,2 Jude 1 Introduction to the book of Jude by Howard Justice Little is known of this writer's identity. It appears, from the opinions of several commentators that this Jude was the tenth named apostle of Matthew 10:3 namely Thaddaeus. He was later called Judas, the son of James in Luke 6:16 and finally, in the King James Version, he was referred to by the name of Lebbaeus (Matthew 10:3). While this is confusing to many, it was not uncommon for men to have been given several names in the first century. His given name of Judas was a direct extraction from the name of Jacob's son Judah which would have been an honor to wear. There are several reasons for believing that Thaddaeus was the Jude who authored this book. First of all, James, the son of Zebedee and brother of John the beloved, had been dead for about 17-18 years at the time of this epistle. Hence, referring to him would have had little impact, and since this James was famous for his brother John, the other son of Zebedee, there is no mention in any of the three listings of him being related to these two "sons of thunder." And since the more famous James had long-since been put to death, it is likely that this Jude was the brother of James, the son of Alphaeus who is often referred to as James "the lesser." Because of Paul's comments in Galatians 1:19, some think he was he half-brother or cousin of Jesus. Regardless of his familial relationship, he was an inspired writer. The date of this book is placed by many in the late sixties, perhaps as late as 66 AD. This would put it at about the time Paul had returned to Rome. There is nothing, however, which enables us to know the date of the book with certainty. Christians in the first century were surrounded by immorality. In the Roman Empire it was fashionable for men to marry their sisters, to engage in homosexual acts and to serve the creature rather than the creator. Public bathing, and sexual orgies in the Roman baths were considered normal behavior during these times. Some false teachers were even condoning participation in such things. From various sources, Christians were being drawn away from the purity of the Gospel. Jude warns against these dangers. Howard Justice ------------------------------ Jude 1:1 In connection with Jude 1:1 the question has been asked: "While it is true that some sources attribute Jude to the Apostle Thaddaeus, do not most of the sources ascribe authorship to the brother of Jesus Christ and of James, author of the epistle bearing his name?" This is true, but the question is whether these men were also apostles. There is some uncertainty about who is referred to in certain passages which mention a "James" or a "Jude" which were common names at the time of Christ. Brother Justice concluded from his study that the authors of the books bearing these names were both apostles. This conclusion is most strongly substantiated by Galatians 1:19 which refers to James as an apostle. It was not presented as the only possible conclusion, however. Among older commentaries the view that both men were apostles is quite common. Many recent commentators think neither were apostles. They must then understand the word "apostle" in Galatians 1:19 in its meaning of "missionary" or "messenger" (as in Acts 14:14, Rom 16:7 and 2 Cor 8:23). Another issue involved is what is meant when James is called "the Lord's brother" (Galatians 1:19). Jesus' brothers did not believe in him during His ministry (John 7:5) so could not have been among the twelve. There is some evidence, however, that James the son of Alpheus (or Cleopas) and Judas (Luke 6:15,16; Acts 1:13) were cousins of Jesus (Mark 15:40; John 19:25) a relationship to which the word brother could also refer. It is all rather complicated and in the final analysis, does not really matter much. Roy Davison ------------------------------ Jude 1:1,2 Jude 1:1,2 (ASV) 1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ: 2 Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied. Comments by Howard Justice *1:1 "Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ" The apostle opens his letter to the saints by introducing himself as (1) a servant of Jesus Christ, and (2) brother of James. Since we have already addressed his familial relationship, we will not spend any more time on that part. But we must give deference to the first part where he refers to himself as the "servant of Jesus Christ." This unique relationship is shared by all who obey the gospel which was revealed by the Holy Spirit. And, we must always be mindful that we are the servants and He is the Master of our lives. When we set out each day to navigate on the sea of life, He is to be our Captain. Without Him, we would be lost. *1:2 "Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied." This wishing of mercy, peace and love for these disciples was timely, given the impending events that were unfolding for these brethren. It is mercy, first and foremost, that each of them needed from the Father; mercy from Him so that they would not suffer beyond their ability to bear it. He wished them peace and certainly it was going to be a trying period, perhaps the most trying period of anyone's life punctuated by the carnal persecutions and death that many were about to undergo. And finally, he wished them love. Of course, this was the "agape" love that comes from the throne of God and that is to fill the hearts of each and every Christian. It was the same love that Jesus exhibited by going to His death upon the cross for the sins of mankind. It was this same love that would cause many Christians to turn their cheeks to the Roman sword and to surrender their lives for the cause of Christ. Living in this world today, few of us can imagine the depth of this love that Christians demonstrated when evil men sent them to the arena to be slaughtered. Yes, there was a profound need for all three of these graces to be multiplied to these first-century Christians, many of whom were to become martyrs for Christ. Howard Justice ------------------------------ Jude 1:1 Jude 1:1 (ASV) 1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ Comments by William Booth *1:1 "Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ" Introductions within written correspondence indicates much about the writer. Letters of today have a greeting first, with a salutation and the author's name at the end. It is significant that the writers of the New Testament, including this letter, usually start the letter by saying who the author of the letter is, followed by a comment about the author to identify himself to the readers as being authentic, and then a short greeting and blessing. When authors of the New Testament writings used names such as "Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ", or "Peter", "James", "John" or "Jude" in this instance, with the associated greeting, the Christian readers knew who they were and the authority by which they wrote. This set the tone for the remainder of the letter, that it was genuine and important for their reading and understanding. Indicating that he was the "brother of James", a "servant of Jesus Christ," further added to the authorship and authenticity of his letter. As Jude sets the stage for this letter, he further develops a relationship with the readers: they were the (1) "called", (2) "beloved in God the Father", and (3) "kept for Jesus Christ." In critical times of persecution and hardships, an introduction such as this strengthened the resolve of the readers to endure. False teachers were also prevalent throughout the area and were becoming a real problem for the new churches. Jude referred to his readers as being "kept" for Jesus Christ. The word 'kept' is the same word as used in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 where Paul talks about the 'spirit, soul and body' being 'preserved'. W.E. Vines, Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, page 207, says it is a "continuous preservation of the believer as a single, complete act, without reference to the time occupied in its accomplishment." If we today in our correspondence and communication with others were as honest, uplifting, and supportive, we could accomplish so much more in the saving of souls and spreading of the Word of God. William Booth ------------------------------ Jude 1:3-7 Jude, verses 3-7 (ASV) 3 Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints. 4 For there are certain men crept in privily, [even] they who were of old written of beforehand unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. 5 Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. 6 And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. 7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire. Comments by Howard Justice *1:3 "Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints." These Christians, like all other Christians, were beloved to Jude. And, we are to be beloved of each other since we are already beloved of God. As he had given careful consideration to what he would write, he was moved to write to them regarding their faithfulness in the work of the Lord, the gospel or good news of eternal salvation. It is certain that Jude was deeply concerned that they remain strong and viable instruments for spreading the word and the edification of each other. This was a very troubling matter considering the temptations and persecution that awaited them. *1:4 "For there are certain men crept in privily, [even] they who were of old written of beforehand unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." Just as the apostles and other inspired teachers had testified, false teachers had crept in among them and were attempting to destroy their faith. These were not people who sincerely taught misconceived doctrine. They were false brethren who went about to subvert men's minds to the serving of the flesh. He further describes these men as "ungodly" men. They could justifiably be called "devilish" men since it was the doctrine of the devil that they bore. Not only had these men perverted the gospel, they had made mockery of it by suggesting that man was free to enjoy any and all the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). In this case, it was those abhorrent acts of homosexuality to which he referred. Those who engage in these ungodly practices deny the authority and power of God. *1:5 "Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not." Jude desired them to remember what they had fully received of the Holy Spirit through the inspired apostles and teachers. He does not tell them to seek new revelation, but to remember what had been previously revealed. Some take this verse and the third verse out of context as though it implied that the gospel had, at this time, been preached throughout the entire known world. Such is neither stated nor inferred here. It was simply a statement that the gospel had already been revealed and it was their task to observe and preserve it. He reminds them that the written word contained the accounts of how God had delivered the Jews out of Egypt and then destroyed those who "believed not." It was to serve as an example to them of the mercy and justice of God: mercy to those who believed on Jesus and justice to those who reject Him. *1:6 "And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day." Here angels or celestial beings are mentioned who had been cast down from the realm of Heaven. The message here in Jude is that God will not tolerate sin, especially in Heaven, His ethereal home. It further states that there will be a judgment day for those who are wicked and that God has reserved a special place for all the wicked. It is described as a place of darkness which implies that it will be a terrible place where these souls are kept apart from those who have served God faithfully. In Luke 16:19-31 there is evidence that punishment will begin immediately following death for those who are not the children of God. It further teaches that the faithful will depart this life for a place of peaceful rest. Some have asked about the origin of Satan. This information has not been revealed to us by God. For whatever reason, one cannot say except that it is in our best interest that we not know all the details. Many suggest that Satan was once an angel who lost his former estate, much as did those angels mentioned above. Although this is a possibility, maybe even a probability, the passages used to support this idea are not conclusive. Whether or not Satan led those angels mentioned above into sin is not revealed nor should such be conjectured. From whence he came is not given for us to know. But what is important for us to remember is that God will not tolerate sin. It is sin which separates us from the presence of God. In Job 1 we are told that Satan met with God when the "sons of God" came together. Whatever that means, it is plain that Satan had been cast out at this time and that he contended for the soul of Job because Job's faithfulness was a sore point with Satan. See also Christ's statement in Luke 22:31. In Revelation 20:1-3, John mentions the binding of Satan by the angel of God and that Satan's powers were to be limited for a period of time and then loosened. Some have erroneously used this text to support a literal thousand year reign by Christ upon the earth before the destruction of the earth and time, as we know it. I do not believe that such is taught by this passage but that it is simply a reference to days of trial and persecution that shall come upon Christians before the end of time. But, more about this when we study Revelation. *1:7 "Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire." Just as God destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah for the sinfulness of those people, He will also punish those who depart from the faith through fornication and serving the desires of the flesh. This is indeed a special reference to the sins of the flesh such as homosexuality, lesbianism and bisexuality. All of these practices are abhorred by God (Romans 1:22- 32). Woman was created for man to enjoy but only within the bond of matrimony (Hebrews 13:4). Unless they repent, adulterers, fornicators, homosexuals and lesbians will burn in an eternal hell because they serve the prince of the air (Satan) and not the Prince of Heaven (Jesus). Of course, these are not the only ones who will be in hell. All sinners, unless they repent and are saved by the blood of Christ, shall have their part in the lake of fire (Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation 21:8) However, there is hope for all sinners who repent and obey God. But such demands a complete abandonment of one's former practices that God hates, and it demands full allegiance to Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:20-21). Howard Justice ------------------------------ Jude 1:3-7 Jude, verses 3-7 (ASV) 3 Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints. 4 For there are certain men crept in privily, [even] they who were of old written of beforehand unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. 5 Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. 6 And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. 7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire. Comments by William Booth *1:3 "Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints." After Jude completes his introduction and greetings, referring to them as 'beloved', he gets right to the heart of his letter: his 'eagerness' to write to them, about their mutual salvation. He now has their attention for the central point of this letter: his concern for their continued steadfastness in the faith. Encouragement and concern are readily seen in any communication among people who have a common bond. We must never lose sight of our love for each other, nor of our common bond (salvation through Jesus Christ). *1:4 "For there are certain men crept in privily, [even] they who were of old written of beforehand unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." 'Privily' means 'secretly'. In His early teachings, Matthew 7:15, Jesus warns about false teachers who would come in sheep's clothing although they were ravenous wolves within. Paul in Acts 20:20 said that some would seek to destroy the church, and would enter it secretly (Galatians 2:4). Peter also in 2 Peter 3:1-4 mentions that there would mockers seeking to destroy the faith of the believers. Jude reminds his readers of these forecasts made by Jesus and the Apostles, about the difficulties the believers would face. He then identifies the false teachers as 'ungodly men' destroying the grace they received, and denying the "only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ." The sad thing about all of this is that it would come secretly from within. False teaching can only be identified by knowing the truth, and a knowledge of the truth only comes through diligent study of the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16,17). *1:5 "Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not." The Old Testament was given for our benefit so we can see how God hates sin, how He dealt with sin, how He protected and cared for His nation of children, and also to foreshadow the scheme of redemption in Jesus Christ. Jude directs their attention to some references from the Old Testament (most likely Exodus 14:21-30; Numbers 14:26- 38; and Psalm 78:10-24) where God showed his hatred for false teachers. Jude indicates that his readers already have this knowledge, and should use it for their strength in dealing with false teachers. They should have the same attitude toward false teachers that God has. *1:6 "And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day." In the previous verse, Jude described how God hated the sin of the false teachers. He continues this thought with regard to those who had been in responsible positions but had not maintained the places which God had given them, their 'habitation'. Teachers should be honest and truthful, caring, etc. But Jude said there were 'false teachers' within. Now he mentions a similar situation with angels not doing what God had directed them to do. Peter gives a related account in 2 Peter 2:4 where God did not spare the angels who sinned: they were all punished. Apparently both Peter and Jude were aware of the writings contained in the Book of Enoch, a non-canonical writing, and being directed by the Holy Spirit, were able to identify the portions of 'truth' within them in confirming the Word of God. The import in this instance is that we must have respect for God's Word, and for the purity of the church. Just as Paul said in Galatians 1:6- 10, that even if an 'Angel' were to preach another gospel, let him be accused. The shepherds of the flock have an awesome responsibility in ensuring that the truth is followed and that the church maintains its purity. *1:7 "Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire." Jude uses yet a third illustration of God's hatred toward sin, and how He will punish those who continue in sin. He mentions how God completely destroyed the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and everyone who lived in them because of sin. These people only thought of themselves and fulfilling their own desires, those of the flesh. There is a significance here that Jude applies in his mentioning of the sins of the flesh. As we grow in Christ, there is a conflict between the natural man and the spiritual man. The spiritual side of man is to become stronger through a continual relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In the examples cited by Jude, this did not occur and the natural side became prevalent, and because of this, God destroyed those who continued in sin. Jude said they were 'examples'. We should also be warned by their example today. God hated sin in times of old, He hated sin when Jude wrote, and He still hates sin today! William Booth ------------------------------ Jude 1:1,2 Jude 1:1,2 In response to a comment made about Jude 1:1,2, namely, "This unique relationship is shared by all who obey the gospel which was revealed by the Holy Spirit..," the question has been submitted: "What do you mean by 'obey the gospel'? I'm told that the gospel is good news. How does one obey 'good news'?" The expression "obey not the gospel" is found in two passages. In 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 we read that persecuted Christians will be comforted "at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: who shall suffer punishment, [even] eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might." Thus, our eternal salvation depends on our obeying the gospel. And Peter warns: "For the time [is come] for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if [it begin] first at us, what [shall be] the end of them that obey not the gospel of God?" (1 Peter 4:17 ASV). The word "gospel" does indeed mean "good news" referring to the good news that sinners can be saved by the grace of God through the sacrifice of Christ. As the word is used in the New Testament, however, the gospel sometimes refers to the entire body of teaching of the Christian faith, and in particular to those fundamental truths which must be believed and obeyed for one to become a Christian. According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus are the basis of the gospel. This good news of salvation through Christ demands something of the hearers. The gospel message contains commands that must be obeyed for one to become and remain a follower of Christ. Jesus said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). This is only reasonable. They who do not obey the gospel demonstrate thereby that they do not really love Jesus. Some people have bumper stickers on their cars that say, "Honk if you love Jesus." More is required than honking. In Matthew 7:21-27 Jesus warns that not every one who says "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom, but only those who do the will of the Father. Jesus commanded his followers: "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned" (Mark 16:15,16). To start with, then, one must obey the gospel by BELIEVING and by BEING BAPTIZED. This must be followed by a life of dedicated service to God in the name of Jesus Christ. Obedience to the gospel is therefore essential for one to receive salvation by the grace of God. Roy Davison