The

Epistle

JUDE
of

by

Th.B. B.R.E., B. D.
J. WILLIAM KANOY

FELLOWSHIP TRACT LEAGUE

BOOK DIVISION

P. 0. B0X 1 64 LEBANON, OHIO 45036

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. J. William Kanoy

was born on November
26, 1928 in
Jamestown, North
Carolina. He was
converted on June 3,
1945, and called into
the ministry of our
Lord one year later.
Dr. Kanoy graduated
from Bible college and
did post-graduate
work. He held three
earned degrees and an
honorary Doctor of
Divinity degree.
For 28 years, Dr. Kanoy was pastor of Church Street
Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina. In addition, he
was president of Greensboro Bible College, which he founded,
26 years ago. He also conducted meetings in Bible conferences
in almost every state in the U.S. as well as some meetings
abroad. For 25 years, he preached almost daily. Dr. Kanoy was
the author of 25 books.
Dr. Kanoy was married to Betty McMahan Kanoy for
48 years. They have three children: Billy Ray Kanoy, Patricia
K. Whitt and Pamela K. Bush. They also have six
grandchildren. Mrs. Kanoy resides in Oak Ridge, North
Carolina.
Dr. Kanoy ascended into Heaven on May 18, 1995.
Dr. Kanoy truly kept the faith, fought the fight and
finished the course.
 The Book Division of the Fellowship Tract
League publishes and distributes these books
"FREE AS THE LORD PROVIDES".
 Printed By
Colonial Press
Charlottesville, VA 22906

©Copyright, 1994
By
Fellowship Tract League
Revised July, 2000

The Book Division of the Fellowship Tract League publishes

material that we believe to be doctrinally sound. However,
Fellowship Tract League and Colonial Press may not
necessarily endorse every position of the authors.
 THE EPISTLE OF JUDE

Suggested Outline

I. Preface - Verses 1 and 2

II. Point of Controversy - Verse 3
III. Problem Men - Verse 4
I V. Punishment of Those Who Departed Verses 5-7
V. Pernicious Enemies - Verses 8-16
VI. Persuasion of God's Workmen - Verses 17-23
VII. Perfect Presentation - Verses 24 and 25

I. Preface - Jude 1:1 "Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and

brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father,
and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:"

The word servant i s "doulos" ( a bond slave). In those days, a bond

slave was under absolute ownership and was possessed entirely for
the good pleasure of his master. Such a servant was to be at the
disposal of his master always, regardless of time, place, or particulars.

I n this short statement we see something of the humility and

dedication of the author. He was to be in second place to his brother
James. Special note should be taken of the fact that, though Jude
was the brother of Jesus in the flesh, his spiritual relationship to the
Lord was considered of greater importance.

With these thoughts in mind, let us consider several things about the
servant and his life found elsewhere in the Scripture.

A. God's Servant

1. A servant is a purchased possession (Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:14;

Rom. 3:24-26; I Cor. 6:19, 20; I Cor. 7:23; I Peter 1:18-20).

2. A servant serves his master well.

a. Willingly (II Cor. 8:12)

b. Obediently (Eph. 6:5,6)
c. Diligently (Col. 3:23,24)
d. Heartily (Col. 3:22,23)
e. Honorably (I Tim. 6:1)
f. Peaceably (I Peter 2:18; II Tim. 2:24)

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 3. A servant is rewarded for his labors (Luke 19:11-27; I Cor.
3:8; Col. 3:24; II John 8; Rev. 22:12).

4. A servant is not greater than his master (John 13:16;

John 15:20).

The study of God's servant Jude is challenging. We invite you to

continue with us as we see him in his: (1) Dedication as a bond
slave, (2) His determination to contend for the faith, (3) His
definition of apostasy, (4) His description of apostates, (5) His
desire for the Christian, (6) His devotion to service , and (7) His
delight for eternity.

"Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them

that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus
Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be
multiplied." (Jude 1 and 2)

As we consider the text before us, we find four wonderful

truths concerning God's precious workmen. While commentators
seem to disagree as to whom the letter was specifically written,
we find a common point in the fact that the contents have a direct
application to "all Christians anywhere" (Lenski). At the same time,
they have a special note to a particular group who might be described
as "true believers."

We consider four wonderful facts concerning these truths. First, a

palatial position, the called of God. Secondly, they are especially
privileged for they are the loved of God. Thirdly, they are preserved
(kept) by Jesus Christ, and in the fourth place, they are the
recipients of particular blessings. Consider these four points
further.

B. God's Workman

1. The workman's palatial position. The call involves:

a. The call to repentance (Luke 13:3,5; Matt. 21:28,29)

Repentance leads to salvation through a change of mind, heart, and

life. It is the inner motivation of the Holy Spirit which causes a man to
turn from the old life of sin to a new life in Christ Jesus. (2 Cor. 5:17)

b. Call to discipleship in Matt. 11:28,29 (Rest and Serve);

Phil. 2:12 (Work); II Tim. 4:5 (Endure); I Cor. 15:58 (
Hope)

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 c. Call to decision and dedication Rom. 12:1,2 (Consecration);
John 6:67 (Stand by the truth); Mark 10:21 (Total
I nvolvement); II Tim. 4:6-8 (Paul sold out)

d. Call to service (II Tim. 1:9). This calling is a. -

1. Personal calling - John 15:16

2. Glorious calling - I Thess. 2:12, 14
3. Heavenly calling - Heb. 3:1
4. Worthy calling - Eph. 4:1
5. Rewarded calling - Phil. 3:14

An examination of the above Scriptures is an encouragement far

beyond soul salvation, reaching to the realization that God's call is a
summons to duty, to responsibility, and to precious partnership with
Christ Jesus. The call involves the privilege of sharing this fellowship
with others less fortunate who still wait in the darkness of sin and are
held by the chains of evil.

There is a solemn note to God's call when we realize it also involves a

summons to the Courtroom of God where we shall give account of our
life's activity (11 Cor. 5:10,11).

Answering this call means far more than mental assent. It means
obedience in serving Him. It means to be totally involved.

We might well weigh carefully the words of our Lord in Luke 2:49; of
Paul in I Cor. 9:6 and I Cor. 13:15; of James in James 1:22; and of
Peter in I Peter 1:13-20.

"Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that
are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and
called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied." (Jude 1
and 2)

As we continue to consider the four truths concerning the workman

and his position, we leave his call and look to the second great truth.

2. The workman sanctified

The thought here is "set aside" or "separated for the Master's use."
Christians should be fully aware of the fact that Christ died for us that
His Spirit might live in us and work through us to a lost and dying
world. The workman is on parade to glorify God (I Peter 2:9). He is

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God's display to a lost and dying world (Eph. 2:10). Note seven truths
i n this connection:

a. Redeemed, separated, and made righteous by Jesus

Christ (I Cor. 1:26-30)

b. A purged and purified vessel (II Tim. 2:21; I Thess. 4:3,4)

c. Separated from the world (Psa. 4:3; II Cor. 6:11-18)

d. Trained in the Word of God (John 17:19)

e. Obedient to his master (I Peter 1:13-16)

f. Stands against the enemy (Eph. 6:11-17; Gal. 5:1)

g. Strives for the faith of the Gospel (Phil. 1:27; II Tim. 4:2)

3. The Workman Preserved

Our third great truth is found in the word "preservation". Think of

i t! Kept by all the resources of God, which leads us to two
thoughts:

a. The Lord preserves His own.

1. The faithful (Psa. 31:23)

2. Them that love Him (Psa. 145:20)
3. The way of the saints (Prov. 2:8)
4. The stranger (Psa. 146:9)
5. The souls of the saints (Psa. 97:10)

b. How does He preserve His own?

1. The Lord behind as a rereward (Isa. 52:12)

2. The Lord to guide (Isa. 45:2)
3. The Lord above to guard (Deut. 4:39; I Peter 3:12)
4. The Lord underneath to support (Deut.33:27)
5. The Lord to protect (Psa. 16:8)
6. The Lord to shield (Psa. 125:4; Psa. 34:7)
7. The Lord to comfort and encourage (Ezek. 36:27; Gal.
2:20; Matt. 28:20)

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Surely the Christian workman has nothing to fear, "And we know
that all things work together for good to them that love God, to
them who are the called according to His purpose." (Rom. 8:
28)

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation,

or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or
sword... Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors
through him that loved us." (Rom. 8:35-37)

4. The Faithful Workman

"Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied." (Jude 2)

We now come to the fourth fact in the preface dealing with the
workman and the particular blessings that are available for
those who remain faithful.

Mercy

Mercy is a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion.

Mercy (eleos) and grace (charis) are closely related in the acts of
God's love toward man. Mercy precedes grace. We read in John 3:
16, "For God so loved the world..." - here is mercy (His pitying
love); "...that He gave..." - here is grace. Note Ephesians 2:4 and
Luke 1:78, 79. In mercy we see God's earnest desire for man's
welfare. He gives the choicest blessing - pardon from all sin and
acceptance with God. Meditate on a few of the outstanding verses
concerning "mercy." See Deut. 4:31; II Sam. 24:14, and Psalms 86:
5. Give careful consideration to the two following points:

1. God's Mercy

a. It is eternal (Psa. 103:17; Psa. 106:1)

b. It is boundless (Psa. 108:4; Psa. 119:
64)
c. It prolongs life (Lam. 3:22,23)
d. It encourages penitence (Joel 2:12,
13)
e. It forgives sin (Micah 7:18)
f. It makes salvation possible (Titus 3:5; Psa. 130:7)

2. What should man do in view of God's mercy?

a. Worship God in song and testimony (Psa. 89:1,2: Psa.

101:1)
b. Give thanks unto the Lord (Psa. 118:1)
c. Should not forsake God's mercy (Prov. 3:3)

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 d. Do justly, love mercy (Prov. 11:17; Micah 6:8)
e. Show mercy (Matt. 5:7)
f. Be full of mercy (Luke 6:36)

The result - victory over judgment (James 2:13).

Yes, beloved, mercy is God's pity for the undeserving and guilty. It is
often expressed as loving kindness. God expects His own to be
merciful to others and bear His message to a lost and dying world.

I t is well said that love is displayed in mercy, and mercy is the very
ground for peace, that peace that passeth understanding; and mercy,
peace, and love should be the guardian of the Christian heart and
thought in Christ Jesus.

Read Psalm 136 and underscore his wonderful mercy.

" What would we ever have done if God had not been merciful? There
could have never been a soul saved in this world. Not one of us can
ever find a refuge at any door save the door of mercy. But here the
vilest sinner can find eternal shelter; and not mere cold shelter only,
for God's mercy is 'tender'. We are inside a sweet home. Our refuge
i s the very heart of God. No mother's bosom was ever so warm a
nest for her own child as in the Divine mercy for all who find refuge in
i t." ( Miller) " Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the
dayspring from on high hath visited us," (Luke 1:78)

Peace

Moving on from mercy, the first of the three particular blessings

available to the faithful workman, we find peace.

Peace (eirene) means to join. To make peace is to join together that

which has been separated. Our Lord Jesus Christ did this through the
blood of His cross (I Peter 1:18-21). This action brings to an end the
hostilities between God and man (Rom. 5:1).

I t will be found as we study Jude that the Christians are suffering great
afflictions from men trying to destroy their relationship to God in
Christ, and thus the great need of peace is multiplied.

Let us examine a few of the precious Scriptures having to do with

peace.

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 1 There is no peace to the worldly and wicked,

a. Such live in fear (Deut. 28:65-67)

b. Such live without rest (Isa. 57:20)
c. Such live in confusion (Isa. 59:8)
d. Such are hopeless (Isa. 48:22; Rev. 14:11)
e. Such live afar off (Eph. 2:17)

2. Peace can be gained through Jesus Christ.

a. He is the way of peace (Rom. 5.1)

b. He is made peace for us (Col. 1:20)
c. He is our peace (Eph. 2:14)

3. Peace is available to God's very own.

a. It is a gift (John 14:27)

b. It is abundant (Psa. 119:165; Prov. 3:17)
c. It is perfect (Isa. 26:3)
d. It is the legacy of Christ (John 14:27)
e. It passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7)

4. Men are to seek peace.

a. Be at peace (Job. 22:21)

b. Seek peace (Psa. 34:14)
c. Make peace (Isa. 27:5)
d. Let peace rule (Col. 3:15)
e. Pursue peace (I Peter 3:11)

I t is well said that joy and peace come together. These blessings are
not of earth. They are gifts from heaven. Peace that passes
understanding has its fountain above. It is God who gives these, for
He is the God of hope. Though heavenly in origin and nature, they do
not gush up into the soul like water springing from the fountain. They
find their way into the soul by a very natural, very simple, and effectual
channel - the belief of God's good news about His only begotten Son.
The way to receive this precious blessing is only through Him. (John
1:4,12)

Love

We now come to love, the last of the three great blessings that God
showers upon His faithful ones.

The love given in our text is divine love (agape). This love is infused
i nto the believer through the marvel of the new birth. The source of
this love is God, who produces a continuous supply of divine life for
the faithful. (Rom. 5:5; I John 4:7, 10)

When we are born of the Spirit, the love of God is shed abroad in our
hearts. Love is an exotic transplant from a celestial clime by the very
hand of God. No fine heredity, no degree of culture, no drilling in
religious ceremonials, no rigid discipline of the law, no literary
sentimentalism, no study of the material works of God, no poetic
genius of mere Christian influence can produce this love.

This love is a river whose headwaters are in a better world. It springs

from the heart of God. This love wells up in us, filling our being until
our hearts, our speech, our intellectual faculties, and inner senses are
deluged with its holy energy. Yes, love is the scope of all of God's
commands. If this is our experience, then the words of our Lord will
be real, "If yea l ove me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)

We might ask the question, "How effective is this love in our

l i ves?" We suggest four simple tests.

a. The tenor of our thought life (Phil. 4:18; Rom. 12:1,2; II Cor.
10:3-5)

b. Our relationship to the Word of God (I Peter 2:2; II Tim. 2:15)

c. Our feelings and conduct toward others (II Cor. 12:15)

d. Our attitude toward world evangelism (Mark 16:15)

2. We will examine two aspects of love.

a. God's Love

I. I t is universal (John 3:16)

II. I t is personal (Rom. 5:8)
III. I t is great (Eph. 2:4,5)
I V. It casts out fear (I John 4:17,18)
V. It is unchangeable (John 13:1)
VI. It is inseparable (Rom. 8:35)
VII. It is self-sacrificing (John 15:13)
Vlll.It is constraining (II Cor. 5:14)
I X. It is divine (I John 3:1)

X. It is to be walked in (Eph. 5:2)

b. Brotherly Love

I. Christ's love is the standard (John 15:12)

II. I t is to be sincere (Rom. 12:9)
III. It is to be abounding (I Thess. 3:12)
I V. It is to be fervent (I Peter 4:8)
V. It is unselfish (Matt. 22:39)
VI. It is the proof of discipleship (John 13:35)

"Love that will not bear all, care all, and share all is not love at all."
( Selected)

I f we would give a title to our study, we would call it "Spiritual

Multiplication." These three great gifts must multiply if we are to stand
against the wiles of the Devil in this present evil world.

May we review the works of these three gifts before going on in our
studies.

1. The love of God:

a. Saves us (John 3:16; Eph. 2:8)

b. Seals us by His Spirit (Eph. 1:13,14)
c. Secures us by His blood (Acts. 20:28)
d. Sends us to lost souls (John 20:21)

I f this love is truly appropriated, then without doubt it will multiply by

growing in outreach, glowing in intensity, and going with joy. It will
never groan over an assignment, grab opportunity at the expense of
others, or stumble over a gnat. It will be glad and multiply.

Such love fulfills the law. The person who loves God will make Him
supreme. The person who loves God will delight in worshipping Him.

The person who loves God will never blaspheme His name. The
person who loves God will not abuse the privileges of the Lord's day.
The person who loves God will not rebel or disobey those over him in
the Lord.

2. The Peace of God Satisfies.

We are set free from sin and bondage. Thus we have:

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 a. No condemnation (Rom. 8:1)
b. No bondage (Rom. 8:2)
c. No debt (Rom. 8:12)
d. No fear ( Rom. 8:15)
e. No corruption (Rom. 8:21)
f. No accusation (Rom. 8:33)
g. No separation (Rom. 8:35)

Such peace should reveal itself in the life and activities of a Christian
without words. It will draw others, discharge its rightful duties, declare
the good news, and continue to dutifully multiply.

3. The Mercy of God Sustains.

The mercy of God is the fountain of all the good we hope for; it is for
those in difficult places as well as for the guilty. Peace flows from the
mercy of God and love flows from peace. These three should be in a
continuous state of multiplication.

Matthew Henry says of mercy, peace, and love, "The Christian may
not be content with scraps and narrow scantlings (a small quantity) of
them, but that souls and societies should be full of them."

I f mercy, peace, and love are being multiplied in the life of a Christian,
then there need be no fear of the apostate. Beloved, how is your
multiplication table?

II. The Point of Controversy - "The Faith" (verse 3)

Bloody wars have been fought with numberless lives lost on the
battlefield for what men believed to be right. We hear much about the
fight for democracy and liberty.

The teachings of Jude are concerned with "The Faith", which is the
only foundation for true religion and Christianity.

A. Faith defined: "The Faith" is that body of teaching found in the

Scriptures, centering in Jesus Christ and His redemptive work:
(1) His birth, (2) His life, (3) His crucifixion, (4) His resurrection
from the dead, (5) His coming again, and (6) The efficacy of His
blood.

To attack this Biblical teaching automatically raises controversy, for

there is no duplicate or second faith. The world speaks of the "faith"

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of different cults, but it must be understood there is but one, "The
Faith", that meets the need of a sin-sick, hell-bent soul. Saving faith is
far more than assent of the mind - it is also heart consent, including
the action of the will. Mere mental belief is speculative, but saving
faith is operative. "Faith is a higher faculty than reason." (Bailey)

As our nation rests on its Constitution which is clear and

unmistakable, so does "The Faith" rest on the authority of the sacred
Scriptures. (Matt. 24:35; II Tim. 3:16)

Lubhard said, "Truth is by its very nature intolerant, exclusive." "If

there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not
i nto your house, neither bid him God speed:" (II John 10). "But
though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto
you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."
( Gal. 1:8)

B. The Basics of Faith

1. Its Ground (Romans 10:17)

2. Its Object (Acts 20:21)
3. Its Motive (Gal. 5:6)
4. Its Trial (I Peter 1:7)
5. Its Fight (I Tim. 6:12)
6. Its Victory (I John 5:4)
7. Its Rest (Heb. 4:3)

C. The Equipment of Faith

1. The Word of Faith (Rom. 10:8)

2. The Author of Faith (Heb. 12:2)
3. The Hearing of Faith (Rom. 10:17)
4. The Spirit of Faith (II Cor. 4:13)
5. The Shield of Faith (Eph. 6:16)
6. The Breastplate of Faith (I Thess. 5:8)
7. The Finisher of Faith (Heb. 12:2)

I n closing, it should be remembered that true faith will manifest itself in

words (I Tim. 4:6); in work (I Thess. 1:3); in obedience (Rom. 16:26);
i n battle (I Tim. 6:12); in prayer (Jas. 5:16); and in joy (Phil. 1:25).

1. The purpose of the letter in verse 3 "...That ye should earnestly

contend for the faith..."

I I
I t is evident that Jude first intended to write a general letter, but certain
circumstances made it necessary to write a strong warning about evil
and misguided men who were spreading destructive teaching abroad.
The purity of the faith was being threatened. The warning calls for
i mmediate action in defense of the faith.

2. The people addressed in verse 3

I n this regard, note the first and last words of verse three -
Beloved.., saint. The first word indicates Jude's precious relationship
to the saints of God. Saints are to love one another (John 15:17).
The saints are those separated from the world and cleansed by the
blood of Jesus Christ. Such are especially set apart for worship and
the service of God. True Christians have much in common as sharers
and partners in the work of God.

3. The painful action necessary in verse 3

Note three words in verse three - "diligence" - "earnestly" - and

"contend". Jude points out a desperate need that required action
(diligence). So great was the need that their life-giving salvation stood
i n jeopardy, therefore, his plea "earnestly contend". These words
i nvolve an agonizing, vigorous struggle to stand against man-made
evidences. (I Peter 3:14,15)

There is but one saving faith and it was delivered to the saints to use,
to care for, and to manage. Note: Jesus Christ is the way (John
14:6), and there is no other way (Acts 4:12). By a simple act of heart
obedience, men are born again. (I Peter 1:23; Acts 16:31; Rom. 10:9;
Gal. 1:8,9)

To contend for the faith implies at least four things:

a. That in opposition to infidels we exhibit the evidence of the

authenticity of the Scriptures;

b. That we maintain not only this, but also that all Scripture is
given by inspiration of God;

c. That ... we open the real meaning of the Word, and not
adhere to our own preconceived opinions;

d " That we contend for the very system of truth... and maintain
i t in all simplicity and purity" (J. Day).

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It i s possible to earnestly contend for the faith without being
contentious, but we need only to read 11 Corinthians 11:21-23 to find
the cost Paul paid for the faith he stood for. Yet a far greater than
Paul made enemies by His faithful ministry of truth. Bitter enemies
hounded Him to His death and jeered at Him while He hung on the
cross. The saint of today should take heed to follow the pattern laid
down by his Master. The servant can be no better or greater than his
Lord.

We close with the following admonition from Paul, "Examine

yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know
ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be
reprobates?" (II Cor. 13:5)

Some critics often say Christians are too narrow in their views. To
this statement we say that a saint should be broad in many ways. I
will suggest several.

1. Broad in love, especially for the lost (John 3:16, I Cor. 13)

2. Broad in vision that reaches the whole world, with a passion

to reach those that are lost and without God in this present
evil world (Matt. 28:19, 20)

3. God's saints should be broad in general world knowledge, but

regardless of how broad we may be in our views, truth is
always narrow.

Mathematical truth is narrow. Three and three make exactly six;

no more, no less.

Scientific truth is narrow. Under normal circumstance at sea

l evel, water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit; no more, no
l ess.

Historical truth is narrow. A given event took place in just one way
and on a particular date.

"Truth is by its very nature intolerant, exclusive." (Lubhardt)

It is folly even to think that man can broaden God's truth which is the
basis for life-giving faith. God's rule stands. Let no man dare even to
suggest a broader view than Spiritual truth defines (Matt. 25:31-46).
Let us never forget that faith is a higher faculty than reason. "The

13
stammering tongue of faith is preferable to the powerless silence
of unbelief." (Van Gosterzee)

1. The Christian warrior must stand as a good soldier of his

master regardless of what the critics say, but how?
In liberty (Gal 5:1; John 8:36; Fully prepared (Eph 6:10-17)
; Courageously (I Kings 18:17-24); Expectantly (Ex. 14:
13)

2. The Christian warrior must strive (I Tim. 6:12)

Cooperatively (Phil 1:27); Fervently (I Peter 4:8-10);
Zealously (Titus 2:14); Boldly (I Thess. 2:2);
Confidently (II Tim. 4:6-8)

3. The Christian warrior must subdue (Mark 16:15-20; II Cor.

12:15; 1 Cor. 9:22,23)

In conclusion we quote Carlyle, "A man protesting against

error is on the way toward uniting himself with all men that
believe the truth". Ruskin said, "There are some faults slight in
the sight of love, some errors slight in the estimate of
wisdom; but truth forgives no insults and endures no stains."

"Buy the truth and sell it not..." (Proverbs 23:23)

"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the

common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and
exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which
was once delivered unto the saints. (Jude 3)

There are several reasons why a believer might wish to avoid

controversy:

1. "I'm not that sort."

2. "Just preach the Gospel and leave it there."
3. "It doesn't do any good and might turn people away."
4. "It will spoil my spiritual life."
5. "It isn't loving."
6. "It might be misunderstood."
7. "It is unpopular."

When a Christian refuses to face legitimate controversy, it

indicates a lack of desire to be involved. Such an attitude often
leads to compromise and its shameful concessions. Compromise will
produce complacency, self-satisfaction, and a lack of enough
spiritual insight to

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be aware of actual danger. Complacency leads to contamination of
the soul.

There are four excellent reasons for engaging in controversy.

1. God's Word Demands It.

Jude 3 is only one of many places which illustrates this. How faithful
the Old Testament prophets were when conditions made it necessary
for them to engage in controversy. How unflinching in this field were
Paul, John, and James! What an example of a faithful and yet
controversial ministry our Lord Jesus set!

2. The Situation in the Church Demands It.

All is not well with Christendom. Who would suggest that it is? We
must examine the teachings of religious men to see if they are
scriptural. We know that they are not in so many cases, and we
would be unfaithful if we failed to raise a voice against them.

Can we see the flock of Christ being given poison, and not raise our
voice in our Master's name?

3. Love for Men's Souls Demands It.

Too often love is given as a reason for not being controversial. But to
see men being taken to a lost eternity by false shepherds and not to
raise a voice is anything but loving.

4. All History Demands It.

When has the Church been a power for God in the world? When its
preachers did not shun to declare the whole counsel of God. The
Reformation was a time of great controversy, but it was also a time
when multitudes came to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus
Christ. William Farel, John Calvin, Martin Luther, John Hooper, Hugh
Latimer, John Knox - all were men mightily used of the Lord. And they
did not shun controversy.

For our further encouragement, Paul said: "I can do all things through
Christ which strengtheneth me." (Phil. 4:13)

" So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the Gospel to you that
are at Rome also." (Romans 1:15)

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" And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more
abundantly I love you, the less I be loved." (II Cor. 12:15)

Ill. Problem Men (verse 4)

" For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old
ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our
God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord
Jesus Christ." (Jude 4)

The Christian life is one of spiritual warfare. The battle is against

Satan and his henchmen who have infiltrated the church. We are
wrestling not against flesh and blood opponents but against powers,
against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual
wickedness in high places.

A. They are crafty.

Once outside the Church, they have crept in over the wall. The One
Door was obnoxious to them because of the blood upon it. They
speak with high-sounding words that appeal to the lusts of the flesh,
and capture the admiration of men. They deplore Biblical truth. Jesus
calls such men thieves and robbers. (John 10:1, Gal. 2:4; II Peter 2:1)

B. They are carnal.

They are ungodly persons who pervert the spiritual blessing and favor
of God into lawlessness, wantonness, and immorality. They disown
and deny the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. (Col. 2:18)

Their one-stringed harp has but one song, "God is love. God will not
punish sin." They affirm that man is at liberty to do his own thing,
even to the promotion of loose living and gratification of the flesh.
According to their teaching, man can be as selfish as Lucifer, as cruel
as Nero, as greedy as Judas, and still get to heaven - for God is love.
Such should read Proverbs 26:10-12 and Romans 6:23 and take
heed.

They deny all the essential doctrines and listen to the voice of Satan
saying, "Ye shall be as gods", thus repeating the sin of Adam.

Some men of note have gone on record advocating companion

marriage, free love, and utter filth. Homosexuality is common even in
their ministerial circles.

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C. They deny Jesus Christ.

To deny Christ is to deny the Scriptures. We list some of the cardinal

truths rejected. They deny:

1. His virgin birth (Matt. 1:18-25; Isaiah 7:14)

2. That He was God in the flesh (John 1:14; Phil 2:6-8; I Tim.
1:16,17)

3. His blood, yet they take communion (Matt. 26:27,28; Heb.

9:22; I Peter 1:18,19; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:20; Heb. 10:11-14)

4. His resurrection power (I Cor. 15:17)

5. His living ministry in heaven (Heb. 7:25; I John 2:1,2)

6. His second coming (Acts. 1:11; John 14:3; I Thess. 4:13-17)

7. The personality of the Godhead and the person and work

of the Holy Spirit (John 4:24; John 14:16,17; Acts 1:8)

One celebrated leader said, "Of course I do not believe in the

virgin birth or in that old-fashioned doctrine of the atonement".
I n another statement he said, "The theology of our forefathers
i s an insult to our intellect."

Another famous man said, "When the western world was

floundering in an unjust and competitive order, God reached
out and put His hand on Russian communists to produce a
j ust order to show a recumbent church what it has missed in
its own gospel."

Such men who are floundering in Satan's cesspool of filth are

"condemned already."

I V. Punishment of Those Who Departed (Verses 5-7)

" Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal,
The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth
the name of Christ depart from iniquity." (II Timothy 2:19)

I n our present study, we will consider three examples of the warning

of God's certain action against sin and sinners. (Romans 1:18-32)

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 1. Forfeited privilege of God's own people (unbelief)
2. Fallen angels who sinned (pride)
3. Falseness of natural philosophy (lust)

A. Forfeited privilege of God's own people. Jude's message to the

Christian community at large is against the abuse of Christian
li berty. The account of Israel in the wilderness serves as a solemn
warning against the present-day prevalence of "easy believism" - a
profession or mental assent without possession of the person of
Jesus Christ. It should be carefully noted that the whole nation was
saved from Egyptian bondage. However, only two people of that
generation entered the promised land! Paul sets forth this truth in
I Corinthians 10:12 and warns, "Wherefore let him that thinketh he
standeth take heed lest he fall."

Jude uses Old Testament examples to warn those in New Testament

ti mes of the possibility that many professors of the truth may falsely
presume they have a right standing before God.

This is unbelief, and unbelief is sin today - just as it was in the days of
I srael long ago. (John 16:9)

Unbelief proceeds from:

a. An evil heart (Hebrews 3:12)

b. Hardness of heart (Mark 16:14; Acts 19:9)
c. Judicial blindness (John 12:39,40)
d. Blinded minds (II Corinthians 4:4)
e. The Devil taking away the Word (Luke 8:12)

2. Unbelief is exhibited in:

a. Rejecting Jesus Christ (John 3:16-19)

b. Rejecting the Word of God (Psalm 106:24)
c. Rejecting the Gospel (Isaiah 53:1; John 12:25)
d. Departing from God (Hebrews 3:12)
e. Questioning God's power (II Kings 7:2; Psalm 78:19,20)

3. Believing faith (Acts 16:31; II Thess. 2:13)

True salvation is a heart relationship that involves repentance. Peter

said, "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be
blotted out..." (Acts 3:19)

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Biblical repentance implies a godly sorrow and the forsaking of sin in
any form. Not only those popular sins which are so neatly cataloged
i n some circles, such as: gambling, drinking, dancing, swearing, etc.,
but every pet sin and idol is to be forsaken. "Mortify therefore your
members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness,
i nordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is
i dolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the
children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time,
when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath,
malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth."
( Colossians 3:5-8)

Biblical repentance also implies restitution. If anyone in the past has

been injured, defrauded, or taken advantage of in any way, he is
eagerly sought after, forgiveness asked, and restitution made.

I n our present lesson, the disastrous consequences of sin are

ill ustrated. The safeguard against sin is to hold fast the faith and to
not abuse Christian liberty. Note especially that those involved in the
following illustrations had received divine favor, but they abused it and
were severely judged for that abuse.

4. I srael in the Wilderness (Jude 5)

Though saved from Egyptian bondage by the loving hand of

God, Israel perished in the wilderness for their sin of unbelief.
Study the Old Testament account of their wanderings along with
Psalms 106 and I Corinthians 10.

The Israelites were judged for:

a. Excessive desire for carnal things (Psalm 106:14)

b. Sin of idolatry (Psalm 106:19)
c. Sin of fornication (Numbers 25:9)
d. Sin of tempting God (Psalm 106:14, Exodus 17:2,7)
e. Sin of murmuring (Numbers 14:2,29)

These same sins exist today. One cannot help but see that those
who neglect divine privileges are subject to God's loving, yet severe,
judgment and chastisement.

B. The Angels Who Sinned (Jude 6)

The account of the fall of angels is found in II Peter 2:4. The

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 rebellion of the angels was headed by Satan (Ezekiel 28:11-
15; Isaiah 14:12-14). The Scriptures do not clearly
specify all that was involved in their sin when they left their
lofty habitation in heaven and their high vocation as God's
chosen servants. Several thoughts come to mind:

1. They defied the Lord God.

2. Their sin was voluntary.
3. Their punishment was sure.
4. "They were hurled from glorious light to infernal gloom."
(Bertram)

Satan, as prince of the power of the air, heads a vast host of demons.
The Christian today is fighting a spiritual warfare as clearly
outlined in Ephesians 6:10-20.

In a recent discussion the author was asked, "What would have

caused the angels to leave their highly exalted privilege?" To this
question we can only answer that they became
presumptuous in their privilege, and failed to meet the
conditions of dependence and obedience on which the retention of
their privilege depended.

These two illustrations plainly teach Christians of every age that only
by "patient continuance in well-doing" can there be a full
realization of our Christian privilege and high calling in Christ
Jesus.

C. Sodom and Gomorrha (Jude 7)

These two cities, Sodom and Gomorrha, had once been places
of high privilege. Their land was said to be like the Garden of
God (Genesis 13:10). They were spared from the fierce attack
of Abraham's forces, but they fell into sensuality and
unspeakable degradation.

Before we become too strong in our criticism of these two cities, we

should consider a few facts about our own cities as given by
Mr. Leonard Ravenhill:

Sodom had no churches, yet we have thousands.

Sodom had no Bibles, yet we have millions.
Sodom had no preachers, yet we have tens of thousands,
plus. Sodom had no prayer meetings; we have thousands.
Sodom had no Gospel broadcasts; we have numberless.
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Sodom had no history of God's judgment to warn them, yet we have
volumes.

The longer the list grows, the more responsible America becomes as
we continue in our worldly complacency. The downward steps of
Sodom and Gomorrha can be traced in Ezekiel 16:48-50:

1. Sin of pride - possibly of race, place, and face

2. Fullness of bread - in need of nothing
3. Abundance of idleness - resulting in self-indulgence
4. Failure to help the poor and needy - selfishness
5. Haughty, proud, and arrogant - the untouchables,
"I'll do my thing"
6. Committed abomination before God

Do these characteristics fit America today?

I f Romans 1:21-32 is read carefully and prayerfully, one cannot help

but see the sins of our land before us. Notice the three distinct
sections in this passage:

Romans 1:21-24 "...God also gave them up to uncleanness..."

Romans 1:25-26 "...God gave them up unto vile affections..."
Romans 1:28-32 "...God gave them over to a reprobate mind..."

My personal files indicate a collapse of proper social propriety.

Dignity and honor are words fast being forgotten.

Many mourn for the death of their children who never mourn for the
sins of their children. Noble were the words of the queen who said, "I
had rather see my son die than sin." (Venning)

Consider carefully our Lord's words found in Matthew 10:5-15,

especially those words in verse 15. There was no sensual sin
i nvolved in this case, but the sin was complete rejection of the Gospel
of Jesus Christ.

V. Pernicious Enemies (Jude 8-16)

The only cure for the apostates described by Jude is "the common
salvation." The only way we can gain victory over them is through
Christ. They must have Christ on the cross for their redemption and
Christ in their hearts for cleansing. As we confront them, we must

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prayerfully seek to win them by the love of our lovely Lord Jesus
Christ.

One preacher has said, "Dreams are crazy as a bed bug." Yet
a great theologian has suggested a new way of life based on the
interpretation of dreams. Dreams are unreal realms of experience.
They cause one to laugh, often to weep, and even to fear.
Dreamers are powerful in this world. Even Michael the
Archangel could not cope with them (Jude 9). We see them
illustrated in three ways in this passage.

1. Cain was the first promoter of a bloodless religion and is

considered a prototype of cynicism and selfishness.

2. Balaam was the first hireling, illustrative of the libertine

teachers. Not only did he do wrong himself, but he also
tried to lead Israel astray. His life was a life of flagrant sin
and moral impurity accompanied by false teachings
resulting in grave censure.

3. Korah despised divine authority, "for whom the blackness

of darkness hath been reserved forever." (D. D.
Walker)

A. They are filthy dreamers. (Jude 8-11; II Peter 2:10-15)

They are all dreaming, loving to slumber in lustful living as they

defile the flesh. They are spiritually blind and ignorant of the
truth. They may know the truth, but not THE TRUTH. They not only
allow deeds of debasing impurity, but they despise and scoff at
higher authority. They speak evil of dignities. A favorite action is
to trample the blood of Jesus Christ under foot and call
Christianity "a butcher shop religion." Jude calls them brute
beasts in verse ten. As the leopard of the jungle, they are cunning,
powerful, watching, waiting to pounce upon innocent souls and to
commit spiritual murder without concern.

B. They are false shepherds. (Jude 12, Isaiah 56:11; II Peter

2:1-3)

Professing to be zealous upholders of the faith, they infiltrate the most

intimate gatherings of Christians They play havoc among
Christians as they feast off the good things of innocent brethren
and trample under foot that brotherhood by despising the ministries
of the very ones they associate with.

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They deny the judgment seat of Christ, the great white throne
judgment of sinners, and retribution of any kind. (Hebrews 9:27;
Revelation 20:12; Mark 9:43; II Thessalonians 1:7-20)

Take Heed: "For there must be also heresies among you, that they
which are approved may be made manifest among you." (I Cor.
11:19)

The Word of God fully warns against false teachers, crept in

unawares, bringing damnable heresies, denying the Lord that bought
them, making merchandise of men, beguiling unstable souls,
promising liberty; but who are really servants of corruption, deceivers,
spoiling the flock. Today false teachers seem to be going unchecked,
"sporting themselves with their own deceit." But when the day breaks
and the Chief Shepherd shall appear, there will be a day of
accounting. The Lord knows how to reserve the unjust unto the day
of judgment to be punished. They shall receive the reward of their
own corruption.

VI. The Persuasion of God's Workmen (Jude 17-23)

We emphasize the first three words: But , beloved, remember.

A. Beloved, remember (Jude 17)

1. Remember your cry to be saved. (Luke 23:42)

2. Remember your responsibility (John 15:20):
a. To live (Titus 2:11-14)
b. To pray (Acts 20:31)
c. To give (Acts 20:35)
d. To our rulers (Hebrews 13:7)
e. To the poor and unfortunate (Gal. 2:10)
3. Remember your Lord's commission. (John 15:16; Acts
1:8)
4. Remember your pernicious enemies.
5. Remember our position in Christ.

On the night of the emancipation of the Jamaican slaves in 1838, a

mahogany coffin was made, and a grave was dug. Into that coffin they
crowded all the various relics and remnants of their previous bondage
and sorrow. The whips, the torture irons, the branding irons, the
coarse frocks and shirts, great hats, fragments of the treadmill, the
handcuffs - they placed in the coffin and screwed down the lid. At the
stroke of midnight the coffin was lowered into its grave; and then the

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whole of that throng of thousands celebrated their redemption from
thralldom by singing the doxology! It is a picture of the Christian's
buried past. Beloved remember. " Therefore we are buried with him
by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead
by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of
life." (Romans 6:4) "Neither yield ye your members as instruments of
unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those
that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of
righteousness unto God." (Romans 6:13)

B. Beloved, building (Jude 20)

The thought of building is to strengthen. We are to strengthen. We

are to strengthen our faith. This is gained through voluntary
sanctification to God. In II Peter 1:5-10 we are to add to (build on) our
faith virtue; to virtue knowledge; to knowledge temperance; to
temperance, patience; to patience godliness; to godliness brotherly
kindness; to brotherly kindness love. These verses have been called
" The Christian's Building Program." Note the promise and ultimate
end in verse 8. We consider several other building thoughts found in
the Scriptures.

We are to build on a solid foundation. (I Cor. 3:12;

Psalm 127:1; Luke 6:48)

2. We are to build cooperatively. (Eph. 2:22)

3. We are to build on the Word. (Acts 20:32)

We are to build by preaching the Gospel. (Romans 15:20,21)

5. We are to build by praying in the Holy Spirit. (I Cor. 14:15;

Romans 15:30-33)

C. Keep Yourselves (Jude 21)

The only safe and happy place for the Christian warrior to be is
i n the love of God. Ever be on the watch. The enemy would tear you
down. The Lord Jesus Christ is the only source of victory. He is able
to keep you (Jude 24; Psalm 121:3). We find several things the
Christian must keep.
1. Keep thyself unspotted, pure. (James 1:27; I Tim. 5:22)
2. Keep thyself from idols. (I John 5:21)
3. Keep the Lord's Words. (John 14:23)

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4. Keep the unity of the Spirit. (Eph. 4:3)

5. Keep busy. (II Timothy 4:2)

D. Others Save (Jude 23)

I f the warrior would be in the love of God, he is not only to keep

himself but to win others. We are to be at it continually, snatching the
unsaved as firebrands out of the anguish of an eternal fire. (Zech. 3:2)

The warrior ought to rescue those in danger of an eternal fire with far
more zeal than a city fireman who suffers and even risks his life for
the cause of society. Yes, the Christian should be willing to agonize,
suffer, and even die for the salvation of others. This work must be
done in humility and fear, lest we contact the contagion and fall. (Gal.
6:1)

We close with Paul's admonition to Timothy, "Thou therefore endure

hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." (II Timothy 2:3)

VII. Perfect Presentation (verses 24 - 25)

The ultimate goal of the Christian warrior is to be presented faultless

before the presence of His glory. One of our most pressing problems
i n this life is to find a proper balance. This is within the reach of
anyone who will join Paul in saying, "For to me to live is Christ, and to
die is gain", and then remember to make it more than a philosophy for
our life but a living reality.

A. We shall be presented faultless (Jude 24)

The thought is, really, perfect. Sin has marred our lives; but we shall
be perfect, for we shall be like Him (I John 3:2). Our present hope will
find its glorious fulfillment in that crowning day when we shall be like
Him.

1. I n Him all fullness dwells (Col. 1:19)

2. He filleth all in all (Eph. 1:23)
3. He filleth with the fullness of God (Eph. 3:19)
4. I n Him dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead (Col. 2:9)

May our hearts cry with Paul, "And be found in Him, not having mine
own righteousness... but that which is through the faith of Christ, the
righteousness which is of God by faith:" (Philippians 3:9)

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B. We shall be presented in glory

Not only will we be presented faultless through Jesus Christ, but we

as His very own shall share His glory.

He is the hope of glory. (Col. 3:4)

2. We shall appear with Him in glory. (Col. 3:4)
3. We shall live in the light of His glory. (Rev. 21:23)
4. We shall behold the brightness of His glory. (Heb. 1:3)
5. We shall sing to His glory. (Rev. 5:9,13)

C. Lastly, we shall be presented in exceeding joy

There was joy in heaven when we repented. (Luke 15:7)

There was joy among the angels when we were saved.
(Luke 15:7)
With joy we shall be received and presented in heaven -
j oy, full, faultless, exceeding, unspeakable joy!

Beloved, "...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which cloth so
easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before
us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the
joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame,
and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews
12:1,2)

I n conclusion to Jude's seed thoughts, may we bow reverently and

read thankfully Jude 25. "To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory
and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."

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