Jude 1:9 — “But Michael the archangel, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jude gives a surprising and unique example. He talks about a time when Michael the archangel had a conflict with the devil over the body of Moses. We don’t have this exact story recorded elsewhere in the Bible, but it was likely a well-known tradition to Jude’s readers.
The point Jude is making is not focused on the details of the dispute but on how Michael responded. Even though Michael is a mighty angel, he did not argue with or condemn the devil by his own authority. Instead, he said, “The Lord rebuke you!” He left the matter in God’s hands, trusting God to deal with the devil.
This is in direct contrast to the false teachers Jude was warning about in the previous verse. They were bold and arrogant, speaking recklessly about spiritual things they didn’t understand. Michael, on the other hand, showed humility and respected God’s authority.
Historical Context
The story about Michael and the body of Moses is not found in the Old Testament but is mentioned in ancient Jewish writings, particularly a book called The Assumption of Moses, which is no longer available except in fragments. Early Jewish readers would have known this tradition well.
The reason for the dispute isn’t fully explained, but it may have been connected to the fact that God Himself buried Moses in an unknown place (Deuteronomy 34:5-6). The devil may have wanted to use Moses’ body to deceive or mislead the people.
Regardless of the details, Jude uses the story to teach his readers about the right attitude toward spiritual conflict: humility and reliance on God’s authority.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches two important truths:
- Spiritual battles are real — There is a real enemy, the devil, who opposes God’s people.
- Victory over evil comes from God’s authority, not human strength or angelic power — Even the archangel Michael did not rely on his own ability but trusted God to rebuke the devil.
It’s a reminder that spiritual pride is dangerous. God’s people are to stand firm, but they must depend on God’s power, not their own.
Literary Analysis
Jude uses this unusual story to make a sharp contrast with the false teachers he has been talking about.
They speak arrogantly and disrespectfully about spiritual matters (verse 8), but Michael, a mighty angel, did not even dare to speak arrogantly to the devil.
The phrase “The Lord rebuke you” is short but powerful. It shifts the focus from Michael’s authority to God’s ultimate authority.
This story also adds to the growing list of examples Jude is using to warn his readers about the danger of rebellion and pride.
Cross-References
Other places in Scripture that relate to this verse:
- Deuteronomy 34:5-6 — God buried Moses in a place unknown to anyone.
- Zechariah 3:1-2 — The Lord rebukes Satan when he accuses the high priest Joshua.
- Daniel 10:13, 21 — Michael is described as a chief prince and protector of God’s people.
- Revelation 12:7-9 — Michael and his angels fight against the devil and his angels.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse is a powerful reminder that spiritual battles are real but are not fought by pride, arrogance, or human strength.
The proper response to evil and temptation is not to argue with the devil or try to stand in our own authority but to submit to God and rely on His power.
This verse also cautions against speaking carelessly or arrogantly about spiritual matters. Believers should have humility and trust God’s judgment.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in the fact that He is the one who rebukes the devil and defends His people.
This verse shows that God does not leave His people to fight spiritual battles alone. He protects, guards, and carries out justice on behalf of His people.
It is an act of love that God has ultimate authority over evil and that His people can trust Him to deal with the enemy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points to the fact that victory over the devil belongs to God—and is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Jesus Himself defeated the devil’s power at the cross.
In Colossians 2:15, it says, “And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
When Michael said, “The Lord rebuke you,” he was looking forward to the day when Jesus would crush the devil once and for all (Genesis 3:15; Revelation 20:10).
Believers today overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb (Revelation 12:11), not by their own strength.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Michael, an archangel, refused to argue with or condemn the devil directly?
- How does this verse challenge the way people talk about spiritual warfare today?
- What does this verse teach you about humility in the face of spiritual battles?
- How can you learn to rely more on God’s authority rather than your own strength when facing temptation or evil?
- How does knowing that God is the one who rebukes and defeats the devil give you peace and confidence?