by Susan Kliebenstein

Created on: July 31, 2008   Last Updated: August 01, 2008

The Epistle from Jude is short, but to the point. In the opening verses of the epistle Jude makes it clear that his primary concern is with those who would distort the message of the Gospel. They who would infiltrate the church and proclaim a doctrine which is different than the one revealed by God to the apostles. In the first 10 verses of Jude three historical examples are given regarding the punishment which awaits those who deny the truth of God. Three more examples of their stupidity follow in quick succession at verse 11. That is where we begin this study.

Jude 1:11 says "Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam's error; they have been destroyed in Korah's rebellion."

Let's examine each of these references to gain a fuller understanding of how they relate to Jude's theme.

1. - "They have taken the way of Cain"

The story of Cain is in Genesis 4:1-16. He offered a gift other than the sacrifice which God had asked him to offer. He did it his own way rather than God's way, and then was angry that God did not accept his offering. The result was jealousy and ultimately murder. So it is with those who would prescribe their own doctrine rather than affirming the truth which God has revealed. They feel that they should have "equal time" with God's truth and are willing to commit even greater offenses to get what they want.

2. - "They have rushed for profit into Balaam's error"

The Story of Balaam is recorded in Numbers 22-25. This man was paid by the enemy to pronounce a curse on Israel. God directed him not to go with them and even his donkey stopped dead in his tracks and told Balaam he was stupid to pursue this vile endeavor, but ultimately he went to do the dirty deed. When he opened his mouth all that came out was a blessing on Israel and a pronouncement of their foes defeat. Needless to say he was not popular with those who had employed him, nor with Israel. Even his donkey had rejected him. Likewise those today who would try to stand opposed to the kingdom of God for the sake of personal gain will be rejected and will show themselves to be fools.

3. - "They have been destroyed in Korah's rebellion."

The rebellion of Korah is recorded in numbers 16. He gathered a group of more than 250 leaders of the community, and together they lead an insolent rebellion against the leadership of Moses. The issue was resolved when God told Moses to tell the Israelites to "Move away from the tents of Korah, Dathan and Abriam." and the

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