Jude 1:17 — “But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jude shifts his tone. Up to this point, he has been strongly warning his readers about false teachers, rebellion, and judgment. But now he speaks directly and warmly to the true believers, calling them dear friends.
He urges them to remember what the apostles of Jesus had already told them. The apostles (the twelve disciples and early leaders like Paul) had warned the church that false teachers and troublemakers would arise. Jude is reminding his readers that these problems shouldn’t surprise them—God had already warned His people ahead of time.
The key message is: Don’t be shaken. Don’t be caught off guard. God already told you this would happen.
Historical Context
By the time Jude wrote this letter, the Christian church was growing, but so were the dangers from within.
False teachers were twisting God’s truth, and some believers may have felt discouraged or confused.
The apostles, including Peter and Paul, had already warned that difficult times would come and that people would try to lead the church astray (see Acts 20:29-30, 2 Peter 3:3, 1 Timothy 4:1).
Jude is reminding the believers of those warnings so they can be prepared and stand firm.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that:
- God’s Word is trustworthy. He speaks through His appointed messengers to prepare His people.
- God wants His people to be aware and ready. He doesn’t leave His people in the dark about spiritual dangers.
- The past teachings of the apostles are still relevant. Christians are called to remember and hold fast to what has already been taught.
Literary Analysis
Jude’s use of the words “dear friends” softens the sharp warnings that came before.
It shows that he is not just scolding—he is lovingly urging his readers to remember what they already know.
The word “remember” is important. It signals that Jude is not giving them new information but calling them back to the truth they’ve already heard.
This verse acts as a transition in the letter—from describing false teachers to encouraging believers on how to respond.
Cross-References
The apostles’ warnings are recorded in several places:
- Acts 20:29-30 — Paul warns that false teachers will come from within the church.
- 2 Peter 3:2-3 — Peter reminds believers of predictions about scoffers in the last days.
- 1 Timothy 4:1 — Paul warns that some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 — Paul warns about rebellion and deception before Christ’s return.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a strong reminder to stay grounded in the truth of God’s Word.
When false teachers arise, when people twist the Bible, when confusion or division spreads, believers should not be surprised.
God has already prepared His people through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
This verse encourages believers to hold tightly to the truth they have already received and not be easily shaken.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the fact that He warns His people ahead of time.
He does not leave them unprepared or uninformed.
By reminding believers of the apostles’ words, God is showing that He cares deeply about protecting His people from deception.
He lovingly calls His people to remember and rely on His truth.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points directly to Jesus Christ.
The apostles were not teaching their own ideas—they were messengers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Their warnings came from Him.
Jesus Himself warned about false teachers in Matthew 24:4-5, 11: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many.”
By remembering the apostles’ words, believers are really remembering Jesus’ own words and teachings.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why does Jude stop to call his readers “dear friends” at this point in his letter?
- How does remembering the teachings of the apostles help you stay firm in your faith?
- What dangers are there today of forgetting or neglecting the truth taught by Jesus and the apostles?
- How can you build the habit of remembering and applying God’s Word in your life?
- How does this verse show God’s love and care for His people in the face of spiritual danger?