The following excerpt is Dr. Simon J. Kistemaker and his commentary on the Epistle of Jude. His insights into this epistle have been excellent. It is fitting this series concludes with his own final thoughts.
“Jude writes a letter to strengthen the readers in their faith and to warn them not to be misled by apostates who in life and doctrine try to lead them astray. After identifying himself, he greets the recipients and pronounces a blessing of mercy, peace, and love.
In a personal manner, Jude says that he had planned to write a letter about the doctrine of salvation and to urge the recipients to contend for the faith, that is, the gospel.”
“However, he changes his mind because of the presence of immoral men who have infiltrated the Christian community. Jude reminds the believers of three Old Testament examples that illustrate divine judgment: the unbelieving Israelites in the desert, the rebellious angels who left their positions of authority, and the immoral men of Sodom and Gomorrah.”
“Jude calls the infiltrators “dreamers” who engage in immorality, rebellion, and slander. He cites the incident of the archangel Michael, who refrained from bringing an accusation against Satan. These ungodly men follow the way of Cain, Balaam, and Korah. They are blemishes in the company of Christians. Relying on a prophecy of Enoch, Jude describes the coming of the Lord with his myriads of angels. The Lord will judge the ungodly according to their words and deeds.”
“The readers know about the coming of the scoffers, for the apostles have given them instructions. Jude urges the believers to strengthen one another in the faith and to wait prayerfully for the realization of eternal life. He exhorts them to show mercy to doubters, to save others from destruction, and to be wary of sin’s contamination. He concludes his epistle with a splendid doxology to God.”
Simon J. Kistemaker and William Hendriksen, Exposition of the Epistles of Peter and the Epistle of Jude, vol. 16, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 413.
May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here. Have a blessed day in the Lord.
Soli deo Gloria!
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