First, it helps to understand the nature of false teachers and their false teachings. Jude summed it up in possibly the best way by stating that these false teachers, “speak evil of those things which they know not…” (vs. 10). False teaching is the promotion of ignorance. Thus, by realizing that truth, the means by which we can remedy the problem becomes evident. Ignorance can only be overcome by an education of the truth, and false teachers can be brought out of their ignorance by teaching them what is right. Also, Jude referred to the false teachers as “filthy dreamers” (vs. 8). How are they filthy dreamers? The error they espouse is nothing more than figments of their imaginations. They are not reality, and thus cannot promise any realistic results. Hopeless dreamers must be given a healthy dose of reality, and for these “filthy dreamers” the reality they must be given is the truth of God’s word. By doing so not only can their error by overcome but their eyes can be opened to the hope available in Christ. On through the epistle, Jude gives a number of other illustrations to describe false teachings and those who promote them:
“These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; raging waves of the sea foaming out their own shame; wandering stars…” (vs. 12-13a).
Ultimately, in whatever way they are described, Jude says the end shall be the same—“to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever” (vs. 13b). Knowing their end, we must understand their nature so that we can rehabilitate them in the ways of righteousness.
Second, it would do us well to remember the truth. It is of no benefit to identify error if we cannot defeat it; but still we live in a world that likes to point out what is wrong without knowing how to promote what is right. To his readers Jude said, “But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ…” (vs. 17). They had warned of the apostasy that would come and had desperately tried to open the eyes of their brethren so that they would be prepared. And all the while, the brethren were told to “build up yourselves on your most holy faith” (vs. 20). It does no good to tell someone they are wrong if you cannot tell them what is right. And thus, we must remember the truth for it will be the only means by which error will be defeated and righteousness will overcome.
Then, third, keep in mind Who is still in control of all things, and Who will still gain the victory in the end regardless of how many are fighting against Him. Jude concluded with that truth: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen” (vs. 24-25). The entire world may turn to evil, but one day the trumpets will still sound, the dead shall still arise, and God will still win. Upon whose side, then, will we desire to be? As said Jude, “keep yourselves in the love of God…” (vs. 21a).
The truth is worth fighting for. Christianity is not illustrated in the scriptures as a warfare for nothing. We are in a constant battle against evil and error in order to win souls and to build up the kingdom of God. Knowing our enemies, their tactics and their weapons, let us look to our Supreme Commander with trust and courage and, “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (vs. 3b).