Jude

“Contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (3). Jude warned believers against charismatic false teachers who infiltrated Christian communities, preaching a twisted gospel. Their characteristics are obvious: they “reject authority” (8), they are “shepherds who only feed themselves” (12), and they are “grumblers and faultfinders” (16). Instead of strengthening unity, “these are the people that divide you” (19). Like the Israelites in the desert and the citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah, they faced God’s wrath (5-7).

Jude gave clear instructions about how to stand firm. “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love” (20).