Jude 1:1 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

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:

Servant of Jesus Christ - as His minister and apostle.

Brother of James - more widely known as Bishop of Jerusalem and "brother of the Lord" (i:e., either cousin, or stepbrother, being son of Joseph by a former marriage. Ancient traditions universally agree that Mary, Jesus' mother, continued perpetually a virgin). Jude therefore calls himself modestly "brother of James." See 'Introduction.'

To them ... sanctified by (in) God the Father. A B 'Aleph ('), Vulgate, Origen, Lucifer, read х eegapeemenois (G25)] 'beloved,' for sanctified. If the English version be read, cf. Colossians 1:12; 1 Peter 1:2. х En (G1722).] Not "by," but 'in.' The Father's love is the element IN which they are 'beloved.' The conclusion, Jude 1:21, corresponds: "Keep yourselves in the love of God" cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:13).

Preserved in - `kept.' Not "in," but as Greek, 'FOR Jesus Christ.' 'Kept continually' (so the perfect means) 'by God the Father for Jesus Christ,' against the day of His coming. Jude, beforehand, mentions the source and guarantee for the final accomplishment of believers' salvation, lest they should be disheartened by the evils which he announces (Bengel).

And called - predicated of 'them that are beloved in God the Father, and preserved for Jesus Christ: who are called.' God's effectual calling, in exercise of His divine prerogative, guarantees their eternal safety.

Jude 1:1

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: