65 - Jude
TLDR: Contend for the faith; certain people have slipped in and pervert grace into license. Remember the angels, Sodom, and the prophecy of Enoch. "Keep yourselves in God's love." Build yourselves up in the faith; mercy to the doubting.
Overarching Storyline
Contend for the faith (v. 1–4). Judgment on the ungodly: angels, Sodom (v. 5–7). These dreamers defile; like Cain, Balaam, Korah (v. 8–16). Build up; mercy (v. 17–23). Doxology (v. 24–25).
Bible Project: Jude overview.
Pegs for Memorizing This Book
- Person: Jude (brother of James); Enoch; archangel Michael.
- Image: Angels in chains, wandering stars, snatching from the fire.
- Number: 1 (chapter; 25 verses).
- Phrase: "Contend for the faith" (v. 3); "To him who is able to keep you" (v. 24).
Highlights
- Jude 3 — Contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints.
- Jude 24–25 — To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority.
(Link to verse entries and meditations as added.)
Before and After
- Before: 3 John; Jude is a sharp warning against apostates; overlaps with 2 Peter 2.
- After: Revelation; Jude's doxology leads into the apocalyptic close of the canon.
Place in the Overarching Biblical Story
Contend and keep. The faith is once delivered; guard it. God is able to keep you; show mercy to those who doubt. A bridge between the general epistles and the closing vision of Revelation.
Interesting Facts
- Enoch — Jude 14–15 quotes 1 Enoch (non-canonical); the quote is used to support the theme of judgment.
- Doxology — Jude 24–25 is often used in worship; "him who is able to keep you from stumbling."