The book of Jude is widely recognized as written by Jude, the half-brother of Jesus. It is one of the smallest Bible books but packs a spiritual wallop. Jude talks about contending for the faith. Why contend for something if it’s already ours? Because the enemy is trying to deceive us, we need to be able to recognize the genuine.
The Bible warns (in Matthew 24:24) that many will be deceived in the latter times. We’ve all heard the story of counterfeit experts who only handle real money. Their senses are then honed to detect the “not real.”
As Jesus’ natural brother, Jude knew the “real thing.” He grew up with Jesus and later came to believe He was the Messiah. He had the time and proximity for that intimate knowledge we all need to cultivate.
Metaphorical language is used by Jude to paint a picture of how to be alert to deception through false teaching. In Verses 12 and 13, he refers to deceivers as:
“Clouds without water” – we expect but do not receive much-needed rain.
“Autumn trees without fruit, twice dead” – no visible spiritual fruit- twice dead is REALLY dead. No life is produced.
“Raging waves of the sea” – full of noise but not dependable in action – dangerous.
“Wandering stars” – not steadfast – desiring attention but not staying the course.
When you see these patterns, be on the alert. Jude warns of deception but emphasizes love and obedience. We need not be anxious about being deceived. He points to the One who is “able to keep you from falling…” (Jude 24.) Scripture teaches us that when we seek Him, we will find Him – the REAL thing.
By: Nan Robertson
~ Christ Fellowship