Jude 1:10 — “Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand and the very things they do understand by instinct—as irrational animals do—will destroy them.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jude is describing the behavior of the false teachers and rebellious people he has been warning about. He says that these people speak evil (slander) about things they don’t understand. They act like they have knowledge and authority, but in reality, they are clueless about spiritual matters.
At the same time, the things they do understand are not spiritual truths but basic, instinctual desires—things driven by the flesh, like animals. Instead of living by truth and wisdom, they follow their own cravings, and Jude warns that this way of living will eventually destroy them.
In short, they are arrogant about what they don’t know and controlled by what they shouldn’t trust—their sinful instincts.
Historical Context
The false teachers in Jude’s day were leading people astray not only by what they taught but by how they lived. They were loud, proud, and reckless, slandering spiritual truths they didn’t understand and excusing sinful behavior by calling it freedom or knowledge.
Jude is pointing out that, far from being wise or enlightened, they are actually ignorant and behaving like wild animals—ruled by instinct rather than reason or truth.
This kind of behavior was especially dangerous in the early church because many young believers could be easily influenced by these false teachers’ boldness and empty confidence.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that rejecting God’s truth leads to confusion and destruction.
When people ignore God’s Word and follow their own instincts, they lose the ability to understand what truly matters.
It also shows the seriousness of slandering spiritual things. Speaking arrogantly or carelessly about God, His ways, or unseen realities is not harmless—it is dangerous and destructive.
Finally, the verse shows that living by instinct—doing whatever feels good or natural—leads to ruin when those instincts are sinful and unchecked by God’s truth.
Literary Analysis
Jude uses strong, clear contrasts in this verse:
- What they don’t understand — They slander.
- What they do understand — They live by, like irrational animals.
The word irrational emphasizes that these people are not living by reason, truth, or spiritual understanding.
The structure of the sentence is sharp and accusatory, meant to warn the reader: Don’t follow these people. Their path ends in destruction.
Cross-References
Other Scriptures make similar warnings:
- 2 Peter 2:12 — “These people blaspheme in matters they do not understand; they are like unreasoning animals.”
- Romans 1:21-25 — Describes people who rejected God and became foolish in their thinking.
- Proverbs 14:12 — “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.”
- 1 Corinthians 2:14 — “The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a clear reminder to be careful who you listen to and follow.
Many voices in the world speak confidently about spiritual matters while knowing nothing of God’s truth.
It is also a warning against living by instinct—following feelings, cravings, or desires without measuring them against God’s Word.
This verse challenges believers to live not by what feels natural, but by what is true and right.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in this warning.
He doesn’t want people to destroy themselves by following their sinful instincts or listening to arrogant, empty voices.
God’s love speaks truth, even when it’s hard to hear, because He wants people to turn away from destruction and live.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus came to rescue people from the self-destructive path described in this verse.
He taught that real life is found in listening to His voice, not the voice of the world or the flesh.
In John 10:10, Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Jesus also taught that following Him means denying self and taking up one’s cross (Matthew 16:24)—living not by instinct, but by trust and obedience to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jude compares these false teachers to irrational animals?
- How can you recognize when someone is slandering spiritual truth out of ignorance?
- In what ways does the world today encourage people to live by their instincts and desires?
- What steps can you take to make sure you are living by God’s truth, not by what feels natural or easy?
- How does God’s warning in this verse reflect His love and desire to protect His people?