By the Holy Spirit, Jude exhorts us to contend for the faith. Sometimes this verse is used to call Christians to a deeper knowledge of what we believe and why we believe it. That is indeed important, but Jude’s message is less about knowledge and more about godliness. Certain impostors had infiltrated Christian gatherings, using God’s grace as a license for any lifestyle they chose (Jude 4). By tracing Jude’s six references to “these” people, we learn their character and receive the warning.

These dreamers refuse to acknowledge authority (vv. 8–9). These corrupt themselves by doing whatever their bodies tell them, like unreasoning animals (vv. 10–11). These are stains that ruin the delights of Christian fellowship (vv. 12–13). These ungodly people behave according to their ungodliness (vv. 14–15). These speak with either complaints or flattery, whichever provides the greatest advantage (vv. 16–18). And these are sensual, “soulish” persons, driven by emotions and natural impulses (v. 19).

We must be vigilant to detect these impostors and their false spirituality. Any similar behavior among God’s people must also be addressed. True believers who refuse to submit to their brethren, bring no blessing in their ministry, create small groups around themselves, or live according to their own desires and emotions should be corrected before others are defiled.

Despite these stern words, Jude highlights two uplifting messages for believers. First, the very fact that we have been warned about these troublemakers means we need not be shaken (v. 17). Second, we can build ourselves up on our most holy faith; we need not be overcome (v. 20). In both cases, we are called “beloved.” In the atmosphere of divine love, let us contend for the faith.