The second-to-last book of the New Testament, right before Revelation, is called Jude. The author is identified as Jude, a brother of James and half-brother of Jesus.
The Book of Jude was intended to equip Christians for the untold challenges of living in what the author refers to as the “last times.” Jude encourages Christians to contend for the faith and warns them to watch out for fakes in the church. Jude said:
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. (Jude 1:17-19)
Jude stressed that Christians must be on guard for false doctrines, which can easily deceive those that don’t know their scriptures. Christians need to protect and defend the truth of the Gospel, and no matter how tough things get, Christians need to continue following Jesus Christ and reflect Christ-like behavior to others.
The Book of Jude has been a strong reminder for Christians over the centuries. Jude’s words are as important today as ever.
Randall acts as the lead writer for ColdWater’s Drive Thru History® TV series and Drive Thru History® “Adventures” curriculum.