Page 138 - New Testament Survey Student Textbook

Structure

Jude opens with the introduction and greeting (Jude 1–2), the author begins by explaining his reason for
writing (3–4): He wants his readers to contend for the faith in its true form because false teachers are
distorting it. The majority of the letter (5–16) is dedicated to describing and denouncing these opponents
of the faith. The language that Jude uses in this section is similar to comments in 2 Peter (with 2 Peter
perhaps drawing on Jude’s words). Jude characterizes the false teachers with examples from the Old
Testament (5–7, 11), from nature (12–13), and from ancient writings outside the Bible (9, 14–15). 182

Jude advises believers to build themselves up in faith, prayer, and love, and to help those whom the false
teachers have led astray (17–23). The letter ends with a powerful statement called a doxology that praises
the only God, our savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord (24–25). 183

Outline
• Greeting (1–2)
• Purpose for writing (3–4)
• Judgment on false teachers (5–16)
• Exhortation to persevere (17–23)
• Doxology (24–25) 184

How does Jude Impact our lives?

Jude’s audience was deceived by false teachings that permitted things that were outside of God’s will and
the proper order for people’s lives (what is healthy and good for them). What are some ways that the
gospel is being compromised in your community or in the wider church by false teachings?
Jude 22–23 provides a list of possible actions toward those who doubt. To whom in your life should you
extend this mercy and how can you do so?

Think carefully about the commands in Jude 20–21. Take inventory in three areas: 1) the health of your
spiritual practices; 2) your communication with God; and 3) your sense of God’s love and presence. What
are some ways that you’re personally lessening the message of Jesus in your life?

Jude, like the rest of the Bible, shows us that God desires for us to be part of his story. We are meant to
live each day like it is a new page in God’s grand plan for salvation, because it is. What about your life
needs to change—right now—to align with God’s story? How can your life tell a better story that looks
more like God’s story?

Atmosphere

The letter of Jude warned against those who, having gained admission to the church, were perverting
the grace of God, denying “our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (v. 4). Jude used Old Testament
examples to warn of these “blemishes” on the church. He wrote multiple denunciations of these
ungodly people who “defile the flesh” and “reject authority” (v. 8). In contrast, he urged Christians to
continue in godliness and love toward such people, convincing some, “snatching them out of the fire”

182 Barry, J. D., et al.
183 Ibid
184 Ibid
137