Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, To those who are called, loved by God the Father, and kept in Jesus Christ: Jude, a servant of Jesus ChristJude identifies himself as a servant, or bondservant, of Jesus Christ, indicating his humility and dedication to Christ's mission. The term "servant" reflects a position of submission and loyalty, common among early Christian leaders. This echoes the language used by other apostles, such as Paul ( Romans 1:1) and James ( James 1:1), emphasizing their role as messengers of the Gospel. Jude's use of "Jesus Christ" affirms the divine authority and messianic role of Jesus, central to Christian belief. and a brother of James
Jude is likely referring to James, the leader of the Jerusalem church and author of the Epistle of James, who was also a half-brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55, Mark 6:3). This familial connection lends credibility and authority to Jude's message, as James was a respected figure in the early church. The mention of James rather than Jesus as a brother highlights Jude's humility and the early church's focus on spiritual rather than familial ties. To those who are called
The term "called" refers to those who have been invited or chosen by God to be part of His people. This concept is rooted in the Old Testament, where Israel is described as God's chosen people (Isaiah 43:1). In the New Testament, this calling is extended to all believers in Christ (Romans 8:28-30). It signifies a divine initiative and purpose, underscoring the grace and sovereignty of God in salvation. loved by God the Father
This phrase emphasizes the foundational Christian belief in God's love for His people. It reflects the intimate relationship between God and believers, as seen throughout Scripture (John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-10). God's love is portrayed as unconditional and eternal, providing assurance and comfort to the faithful. This love is the basis for the believers' identity and security in their faith. and kept in Jesus Christ
The concept of being "kept" suggests protection and preservation by Jesus Christ. This assurance of security is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are depicted as being safeguarded by Christ's power and intercession (John 10:28-29, 1 Peter 1:5). It highlights the ongoing work of Christ in the lives of believers, ensuring their perseverance and ultimate salvation. This phrase reassures the faithful of their eternal security in Christ amidst trials and false teachings. Persons / Places / Events 1. JudeThe author of the epistle, identifying himself as a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James. Jude is traditionally understood to be one of the half-brothers of Jesus, which gives him a unique perspective and authority in the early church. 2. Jesus ChristCentral figure of the Christian faith, whom Jude serves. Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and the Savior of humanity. 3. JamesLikely refers to James, the leader of the Jerusalem church and another half-brother of Jesus. His mention provides credibility and connection to the early Christian community. 4. God the FatherThe first person of the Trinity, who loves those who are called. This emphasizes the divine relationship and care God has for believers. 5. Called, Loved, and KeptDescribes the recipients of the letter, highlighting their identity and security in their relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Teaching Points Identity in ChristBelievers are called, loved, and kept, which forms the foundation of their identity. Understanding this can strengthen faith and provide assurance in times of doubt. Servanthood and HumilityJude's self-identification as a servant of Jesus Christ highlights the importance of humility and service in the Christian life. Believers are encouraged to adopt a similar posture in their walk with Christ. Family and Spiritual AuthorityJude's relationship to James and Jesus underscores the importance of spiritual authority and community. Believers should seek guidance and accountability within the body of Christ. Security in SalvationThe concept of being "kept in Jesus Christ" assures believers of their eternal security. This should inspire confidence and perseverance in their faith journey. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jude's identification as a "servant of Jesus Christ" influence your understanding of Christian leadership and service? 2. In what ways can recognizing yourself as "called, loved, and kept" by God impact your daily life and decisions? 3. How does the relationship between Jude, James, and Jesus inform your view of spiritual authority and community within the church? 4. Reflect on a time when understanding your identity in Christ provided you with assurance or comfort. How can you apply this understanding in current challenges? 5. How do other scriptures that speak of being "kept" by God reinforce your confidence in your salvation and relationship with Him? Connections to Other Scriptures Romans 1:1Paul also identifies himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, showing a common theme of humility and dedication among early Christian leaders. John 10:28-29Jesus speaks of His followers being kept secure, which aligns with Jude's assurance of believers being "kept in Jesus Christ." 1 John 3:1The love of God the Father is a recurring theme, emphasizing the identity of believers as children of God. People Adam, Balaam, Cain, Core, Enoch, James, Judas, Jude, Korah, MichaelPlaces Egypt, Ephesus, Gomorrah, SodomTopics Beloved, Bondman, Bondservant, Bond-servant, Brother, Christ, Enfolded, God's, Holy, James, Judas, Jude, Kept, Love, Loved, Ones, Preserved, Safe, Sanctified, Selection, ServantDictionary of Bible Themes Jude 1:1 1040 God, fatherhood
2535 Christ, family of
5391 letters
6620 calling
7024 church, nature of
7160 servants of the Lord
7944 ministry, qualifications
8344 servanthood, in believers Jude 1:1-2 5328 greeting Library The Holy Spirit and the one Church
Our text suggests to us three things: first, an inquiry--Have we the Spirit? secondly, a caution--if we have not the spirit we are sensual; thirdly, a suspicion--there are many persons that separate themselves. Our suspicion concerning them is, that notwithstanding their extra-superfine profession, they are sensual, not having the Spirit; for our text says, "These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit." I. First, then, our text suggests AN INQUIRY--Have we the Spirit? This …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858Persevering Grace. Jude 1:24,25.
Persevering grace. Jude 1:24,25. To God the only wise, Our Savior and our King, Let all the saints below the skies Their humble praises bring. 'Tis his almighty love, His counsel, and' his care, Preserves us safe from sin and death, And every hurtful snare. He will present our souls, Unblemished and complete, Before the glory of his face, With joys divinely great. Then all the chosen seed Shall meet around the throne, Shall bless the conduct of his grace, And make his wonders known. To our Redeemer, …
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Manifestation of the Church with Christ.
The last time the world saw the Lord Jesus He was alone--all alone in death. But when He returns to this earth He will not be alone. His saints will accompany Him. He is the "Firstborn among many brethren" (Rom. 8:29), and when He appears again they will be with Him. "He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again, bringing His sheaves with Him" (Ps. 126:6). Yes, that blessed One who humbled Himself to become the Sower shall return with "His sheaves"--"Behold, …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return The Twofold Bearing of this Fact.
We come now to a point concerning which it behooves believers, particularly young believers and beginners in the study of prophecy, to be quite clear upon. Like the other two great Facts which we have reviewed--the First Advent of our Lord to this earth and His going away, and the presence now of the Holy Spirit upon this earth--this third great fact of the Redeemer's Return also has a double bearing, a bearing upon the Church and a bearing upon the world. The Second Coming of Christ will occur in …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return The Redeemer's Return is Necessitated by the Present Exaltation of Satan.
One of the greatest mysteries in all God's creation is the Devil. For any reliable information concerning him we are shut up to the Holy Scriptures. It is in God's Word alone that we can learn anything about his origin, his personality, his fall, his sphere of operations, and his approaching doom. One thing which is there taught us about the great Adversary of God and man, and which observation and experience fully confirms, is, that he is a being possessing mighty power. It would appear, from a …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return Salvation.
Salvation is the song that was to be sung by the redeemed in that day. "Behold now is the day." Our salvation has come. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men." Salvation means deliverance. A prophecy concerning the Christ--our salvation--says: "He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound." Isa. 61:1. Christ our Savior came to deliver us from the prison-house of sin. In the …
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day Saved by Grace;
OR, A DISCOURSE OF THE GRACE OF GOD: SHOWING-- I. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED. II. WHAT IT IS TO BE SAVED BY GRACE. III. WHO THEY AEE THAT ABE SAVED BY GRACE. IV. HOW IT APPEARS THAT THEY ARE SAVED BY GRACE. V. WHAT SHOULD BE THE REASON THAT GOD SHOULD CHOOSE TO SAVE SINNERS BY GRACE RATHER THAN BY ANY OTHER MEANS. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. THIS admirable Treatise upon the most important of all subjects, that of the soul's salvation, was first published in a pocket volume, in the year 1675. This has …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 The Character of Its Teachings Evidences the Divine Authorship of the Bible
Take its teachings about God Himself. What does the Bible teach us about God? It declares that He is Eternal: "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou are God" (Ps. 90:2). It reveals the fact that He is Infinite: "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee" (I Kings 8:27). Vast as we know the universe to be, it has its bounds; but we must go beyond …
Arthur W. Pink—The Divine Inspiration of the Bible Links Jude 1:1 NIVJude 1:1 NLTJude 1:1 ESVJude 1:1 NASBJude 1:1 KJV
Jude 1:1 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
