Jude, an insider among the disciples and brother of James, writes the last of our very short letters in the New Testament. Jude has one preoccupation, “I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain people have crept in unnoticed…” (Jude 3-4). False teachers have snuck into the church and Christians are called to contend for the faith. Put up a fight, do not accept false teaching so easily!

How was the church to recognize false teachers? In addition to the guidance churches were given in 1-3 John, Jude notes simply that they are “ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.” (Jude 4) Two simple characteristics – ungodly sensuality in their behavior, and a denial of the authority of Jesus Christ.

Jude also notes that “there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions. It is those who cause divisions.” (Jude 18-19). They are grumblers, malcontent, loud-mouthed boasters showing favoritism (Jude 16). They are preoccupied with feeding themselves instead of caring for those they are supposed to be shepherding (Jude12).

The church is reminded of the fate of those who are false teachers and cause division. The references to judgment in the Old Testament are many, including the Exodus (v. 5); Satan’s rebellion (v. 6); Sodom and Gomorrah (v. 7); Moses’ death (v. 9); Cain (v. 11); Balaam (v. 11); and Korah (v. 11). Jude’s use of the well-known historical illustrations of Sodom and Gomorrah, Cain, Balaam, and Korah reminded the Jewish Christians of the necessity of true faith and obedience. Judgment is coming.

The call to the church is to remain steadfast, to persevere.  Christians are encouraged to “build themselves up in the faith” and to “keep themselves in the love of God” (Jude 20-21). They are to “show mercy on those who doubt; and save others by snatching them out of the fire” (Jude 22-23).

False teachers tend to sneak into congregations or denominations unnoticed. Pray that the Lord would open our eyes so we can identify and rebuke false teachings when they appear. Keep your eyes open for those in the church who seek themselves, or who justify ungodly sensual living. Fight for truth and stand up against error. “God is able to keep us from stumbling.” (Jude 24)