The Book of Jude

Jude intended to write about 'our common salvation' and was compelled instead to write an appeal: 'contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.' Certain men had crept in unnoticed, turning the grace of God into licentiousness and denying our only Master and Lord. Jude exposes them with Old Testament precision: the wilderness generation, Cain, Balaam, Korah, wandering stars for whom the black darkness has been reserved.

But the letter's commands land on the faithful: build yourselves up in the most holy faith, pray in the Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, have mercy on some who are doubting, and save others by snatching them out of the fire. It closes with one of Scripture's greatest doxologies, to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling. This commentary traces the contending, the discernment, and the keeping power of God.