Lecture on Jude and Biblical Teachings

Introduction

• Opening: Thanks and praise to the Lord for safe arrival.
• Context: Snow in New York; some sickness mentioned.

Key Themes in the Book of Jude

Preservation in Christ

• Jude 1:1: Emphasis on being preserved in Jesus Christ.
• Concept: Preserved by doing God's will, not by ignoring it.

Contending for the Faith

• Jude 1:3: Exhortation to earnestly contend for the faith.
• Definitions:
  • Contend: To struggle, assert, declare.
  • Saints: Defined as Israelites (Psalms 1:14).

Ungodly Men and Lasciviousness

Caution Against False Teachings

• Jude 1:4: Warning about ungodly men turning the grace of God into lasciviousness.
• Lasciviousness: Defined as showing offensive sexual desire.

Grace and Law

• Titus 2:11-12: Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously, and godly.
• Commandments: Grace is equated with keeping God's commandments.

Examples from Scripture

Israelite Examples

• Hebrews 13:4: Example of how marriage is honorable and fornication will be judged.
• Jeremiah and Deuteronomy: Various passages giving context and examples.

Stories of Judgment and Punishment

• Surah 23:17-21: Punishments for adultery in a historical context.
• Job 10:21: Land of darkness as a metaphor for places devoid of divine order.
• Isaiah 30:26: Light of God and future states.

Spiritual Battles and Controversies

Angels and Fallen State

• Jude 1:6: Angels who did not keep their first estate.
• Genesis 6: Misinterpretations about angels and human women.
• 1 Corinthians 15: Discussion on different types of flesh (celestial vs terrestrial).

False Leaders and Doctrine

• Jude 1:8-11: Filthy dreamers who defile the flesh and despise dominion.
• Example: Michael the Archangel’s contention with the devil over Moses' body.
• Dominion and Dignities: Leadership roles in the congregation.
• Examples of Disobedience: Cain, Balaam, and Korah.

Encouragement and Warnings

• Filthy Dreamers: Handling false teachers by not bringing railing accusations but by saying "The Lord rebuke you".