Jude 1:5
“I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.”
Context:The book of Jude is a short letter written by Jude, the brother of James and a half-brother of Jesus. In this letter, Jude addresses false teachers and warns believers about their destructive influence on the church. Verse 5 specifically refers to the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their subsequent judgment.
Historical background:Jude draws upon a well-known event from Israel’s history-the exodus from Egypt. The Israelites were slaves in Egypt, and God miraculously delivered them through various signs and wonders, ultimately leading them out of bondage and into the Promised Land.
God’s salvation:Jude reminds his readers that the Lord saved the people out of the land of Egypt. This highlights God’s faithfulness and His ability to rescue His people from oppressive situations. The exodus is a powerful illustration of God’s deliverance and redemption.
Unbelief and judgment:However, Jude goes on to mention that even after being saved from Egypt, some of the Israelites failed to believe in God and His promises. Their lack of faith and disobedience led to their destruction in the wilderness. This serves as a cautionary example for believers, emphasizing the seriousness of unbelief and the consequences of rejecting God’s truth.
Application to the readers:By referring to this historical event, Jude encourages his readers to remain steadfast in their faith and not to fall into the same patterns of unbelief and disobedience. He warns against false teachers who may lead them astray and emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to God’s Word.
Lessons for believers today:The verse serves as a reminder to examine our own hearts and ensure that we are truly trusting in God and His promises. It reminds us that salvation is not merely a one-time event but an ongoing journey of faith and obedience. We should be cautious about any influences or teachings that undermine our faith and cling to the truth revealed in the Scriptures.
