|
The writer of this letter was Jude (Judas), the brother of
James. He was probably the brother of James who was an elder
of the church at Jerusalem and who wrote the Epistle (letter)
of James. Both were probably the brothers of Jesus. During
the ministry of Jesus in Galilee, his brothers did not believe
on him, although he was the Messiah and Saviour, the Son of
God (not Joseph - see John 7:5). After his resurrection, however,
they became faithful followers.
Jude wrote as "a servant (slave) of Jesus Christ".
Writing to fellow-believers, Jude shows how important it is
to keep the original Gospel as taught in the Scriptures. Already
in the early church, false teachings and evil practices were
beginning to multiply. Jude knew it was urgent to write and
remind his readers of the need to keep the true faith. He
reminded them of Old Testament examples of false teachers
and of the judgements reserved for such (vv.5-15).
Jude's name can also be written as Judah - a name which means
"praise". It is fitting, therefore, that the letter
ends in praise: "To the only wise God our Saviour, through
Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory and majesty, dominion and
power, both now and ever. Amen" (v.25).
To give God glory and praise is the ultimate purpose to which
God's saints are called.
|