(A.D.67?) [Because of its similarity, a letter written about the time of II Peter to warn against the heretics now infiltrating the Christian faith, in particular the Gnostics who lived riotously in their flesh while claiming superiority in knowledge toward salvation of the spirit. Its author is believed to be Jude, the brother of our Lord ( Mat.13:55), who became a believer after His resurrection ( Jn.7:5; Acts 1:14), and served Him the remainder of his life ( I Co.9:5).] Though his addressees are not mentioned by name, he clearly has in mind those whom he condemns (without calling any names, likely well known because of their outlandish lifestyles making them easily recognized in this stinging rebuke and condemnation). However, He does make the distinction between his recipients and the subjects of his righteous indignation. The former are seen clearly secure in Christ, sanctified by God, and called to be partakers of the coming kingdom, whose lives reflect His mercy, peace, and love, as seen in Jude's desire for each to be "multiplied." The latter are not said to have entered the fellowship through this avenue; on the contrary, they "crept in unawares" (crept = pareisduno, meaning, to come in sideways, as in slipping in through a side door, used only here in the New Testament) -- seed of old, ordained and planted by Satan (just as it has always been with God's people, even in the Exodus) to frustrate the gospel of Christ, even denying His personage. No rebirth here! Not once saved, and now lost, though still preaching a popular gospel. Indeed, Jesus says of these, they are robbers, thieves attempting to gain admittance to the kingdom through another door other than Him. (Study Jn.10 closely in relation to this passage.) Their manner of life and speech are clear indicators that Christ has not sent them, for at no time did He behave in such a way when ministering. His way was gentle and kind, keeping a quiet spirit about Himself. (See summary on I Tim.2 and I Pe.4.) Even Michael, chief of angels, does not bombastically parade himself with pomp and power when serving Christ and speaking in His name. These men are full of hot air, void of the Spirit, as Jude picturesquely portrays them. It should come as no surprise to the true believers that these are now among them, since men have been forewarned of them from the beginning, even in Adam's time by Enoch. Their end is certain, therefore, one is not to allow their flirtatious demeanor, appealing to the senses and reason as it may be, to attract them to their following. Though the simple presentation of Christ's gospel (and subsequent living out) may not necessarily be appealing to the eye, senses, or human reasoning or intellect, yet it is understood and precious to the one in need of a savior, initially and continually! (As illustrated in the very act of His atoning work, Lk.23:39-43.) They are encouraged to forsake not their first love, and continue with an eye of faith toward His appearing, while actively and lovingly participating in the ministry of reconciliation, being careful of the deadly contaminate of sin. He reminds them that God will finish in them what He has begun, and He alone is deserving of man's praise.