10 Interesting Facts About the Book of Jude

The Book of Jude is one of the shortest books in the Bible, yet it is packed with warnings, encouragements, and reminders for believers. Written as a letter, it stands out for its strong call to defend the faith and remain steadfast in Christ.

1. It Is One of the Shortest Books in the Bible

Jude contains only one chapter with 25 verses, making it one of the shortest books in Scripture. Despite its brevity, it covers deep theological themes about false teaching, faithfulness, and God’s judgment.

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James, to those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ. — Jude 1:1

2. Authored by the Brother of James

The writer identifies himself as Jude, the brother of James, who was a leader in the Jerusalem church. This James is widely believed to be the half-brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55), making Jude also a half-brother of Jesus.

Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? — Matthew 13:55

3. Originally Intended as an Encouraging Letter

Jude first planned to write about the common salvation believers share. Instead, the Holy Spirit led him to urgently warn about false teachers who had infiltrated the church.

I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. — Jude 1:3

4. Strong Warning Against False Teachers

The letter describes false teachers in vivid language, calling them “clouds without rain” and “wild waves of the sea.” Jude warns that their end is destruction unless they repent.

These are hidden reefs at your love feasts… shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted. — Jude 1:12

5. References to Old Testament Judgments

Jude draws from Israel’s history, including the unbelief in the wilderness, the rebellion of the angels, and Sodom and Gomorrah’s destruction.

Just as Sodom and Gomorrah… serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire. — Jude 1:7

6. Includes an Unusual Reference to Michael the Archangel

Jude 1:9 records a rare account of Michael the archangel contending with the devil over the body of Moses. This event is not recorded elsewhere in Scripture, making it a unique mystery.

But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’ — Jude 1:9

7. Quotes from Extra-Biblical Sources

Jude quotes from the Book of Enoch and possibly from the Assumption of Moses. While these works are not part of the Bible, Jude uses them to illustrate truths consistent with Scripture.

Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, to execute judgment on all... — Jude 1:14-15

8. Contains One of the Most Beautiful Benedictions

The closing verses are a beloved blessing, often recited in Christian worship, declaring God’s power to keep believers from falling.

Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy... — Jude 1:24

9. Focuses on Contending for the Faith

Jude’s main message is to “contend for the faith” — to actively defend the truth of the gospel against distortion. This call remains vital for Christians today.

Contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. — Jude 1:3

10. A Reminder of God’s Keeping Power

Though it warns of danger, Jude ends with hope — God keeps His people secure in Christ, no matter how dark the times.

Kept for Jesus Christ… mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you. — Jude 1:1-2

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