Jude 1:15 — “to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”

Extended Explanation

This verse continues the prophecy from Enoch that Jude began quoting in verse 14. Here, Jude explains why the Lord is coming with His holy ones—it is for the purpose of judgment.

The verse tells us that God is coming to:

1. Judge everyone — No one will be left out. Every person will stand before God.

2. Convict all of them of their ungodly acts — God will expose every sinful action.

3. Convict them of defiant words spoken against Him — It’s not only actions but also words and attitudes that will be judged, especially those who spoke arrogantly against God.

Notice how many times the word ungodly is used in this verse—it appears four times. Jude is making it crystal clear that God is not coming to judge mistakes or misunderstandings, but to judge rebellious, stubborn, and deliberate sin against Him.

Historical Context

Jude’s readers lived in a time when false teachers and immoral people were active within the church. These people acted as though there would be no consequences for their sin and rebellion. Jude reminds them that even from the days of Enoch, God had warned that a day of judgment was coming.

The early church needed to be reminded that God’s justice is certain and that the ungodly will not escape His judgment.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches the following key truths:

• Everyone will be judged. No one is exempt.

• Sin is not just an action; it’s a heart attitude and even shows up in our words.

• God’s judgment will expose and convict. There will be no excuses or hiding on that day.

This verse reinforces that God is not indifferent to sin. He is holy and will deal with all ungodliness.

Literary Analysis

The repetition of the word ungodly in this verse is deliberate. It drives home the seriousness of rebellion against God.

The structure of the sentence is meant to pile up the charges:

• Ungodly acts

• Ungodly manner of living

• Defiant words against God

It’s like a courtroom scene where the evidence is being laid out, and nothing is overlooked.

Cross-References

Several other passages teach the same truth:

• Ecclesiastes 12:14 — “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing.”

• Matthew 12:36 — Jesus said, “Everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”

• Romans 2:5-6 — God’s judgment will be according to people’s actions.

• 2 Corinthians 5:10 — “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a sober reminder that God sees everything—actions, words, and attitudes.
It challenges believers not to take sin lightly and not to listen to voices that say there are no consequences.

But for those who trust in Jesus, this verse also reminds them of the seriousness of what they have been saved from. It should stir up gratitude, humility, and a desire to live godly lives.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first, this verse may sound like it’s only about wrath and judgment—but it is actually rooted in God’s love.

A loving God does not ignore evil, rebellion, or injustice.
He warns because He cares.
He will judge the ungodly to bring justice and protect His people.

God’s love is also seen in His patience—He has been warning about this judgment since the days of Enoch, giving people time to turn back to Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse points straight to the role of Jesus Christ as Judge.
In John 5:22, Jesus said, “The Father judges no one but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.”

The Day of Judgment that Enoch prophesied will be carried out by Jesus when He returns in glory (Matthew 25:31-46).

For those who trust in Jesus, there is no fear of this judgment, because He already bore their punishment on the cross (Romans 8:1).
But for those who reject Him, this verse is a serious warning of what is to come.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Jude emphasizes the word ungodly so many times in this verse?

2. How does this verse challenge the way the world thinks about sin and judgment?

3. What do you think it means to be convicted of your words, not just your actions?

4. How does this verse motivate you to live differently today?

5. How is God’s promise of judgment actually a reflection of His love and justice?