Jude 1:1 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ — The highest glory which any, either angel or man, can aspire to. The word servant, under the old covenant, was adapted to the spirit of fear and bondage that clave to that dispensation. But when the time appointed of the Father was come, for the sending of his Son to redeem them that were under the law, the word servant (used by the apostles concerning themselves and all the children of God) signified one that, having the Spirit of adoption, is made free by the Son of God. His being a servant is the fruit and perfection of his being a son. And whenever the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in the new Jerusalem, then will it be indeed that "his servants shall serve him," Revelation 22:3. The brother of James — St. James was the more eminent, usually styled, "the brother of the Lord." To them that are beloved — The conclusion, Jud 1:21, exactly answers the introduction. And preserved through Jesus Christ — So both the spring and the accomplishment of salvation are pointed out. This is premised, lest any of them should be discouraged by the terrible things which are afterwards mentioned. And called — To receive the whole blessing of God, in time and eternity.