What does Jude 1:18 mean?

How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. Jude 1:18

Explanation

Jude 1:18 refers to a warning about scoffers or mockers who will appear in “the last time” and follow their own sinful desires instead of God’s commands. This passage is an admonition to the faithful, reminding them to be vigilant and to remember the words spoken previously by the apostles of Jesus Christ. These mockers are characterized by their mockery of spiritual things, their dismissal of divine authority, and their indulgence in ungodly behavior. The deeper meaning here emphasizes the need for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and not be swayed by individuals who seek to undermine or ridicule their spiritual convictions.

Historical Context

The Epistle of Jude is one of the shortest books in the New Testament, traditionally attributed to Jude, the brother of James and Jesus. It was likely written in the late first century to early Christian believers. The historical context was a period when the Christian community was facing internal challenges from false teachers and morally lax individuals who infiltrated the church. Jude urgently wrote to address these issues and bolster the faith of the believers amidst such disruptions.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives may interpret Jude 1:18 in various ways. From a pre-millennialist viewpoint, the reference to “the last time” could be seen as a prophecy about an increase in scoffers before Christ’s second coming. Post-millennialists and amillennialists might view “the last time” as the entire period between Christ’s first and second comings, indicating that mockers have always been and will continue to be present within society. Theologically, this verse is seen as a call to discernment and perseverance in the face of false teachings and immoral behavior.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Jude 1:18 can be applied in contemporary life by encouraging believers to be discerning of the teachings and behaviors they encounter. It urges individuals to cling to apostolic doctrine, practice spiritual vigilance, and stay committed to a lifestyle that aligns with biblical principles. Christians are also reminded to support and edify one another against influences that may seek to undermine their faith.

Cross-References

• 2 Peter 3:3 – “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,”
• 1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;”
• 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves,… having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of Jude 1:18 include:

• “Mockers” or “scoffers” (Greek: ἐμπαίκται, empaiktai): This term denotes individuals who ridicule, mock, or deride religious beliefs.
• “Last time” (Greek: ἐσχάτου χρόνου, eschatou chronou): Refers to the end times or the final period of human history as understood in Christian eschatology.
• “Ungodly lusts” (Greek: ἀσεβειῶν, asebeion): This term is indicative of desires that are contrary to God’s will and characterized by a lack of reverence or piety.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient religions and cultures, there were prophecies about periods of moral decline preceding an age of renewal or judgement. For example, in Greco-Roman culture, the idea of an impending age of decline was common. In Jude 1:18, the Christian perspective on end times includes a moral and spiritual component, where the presence of mockers serves as a signifier of these last days.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse Jude 1:18 does not directly intersect with scientific perspectives, it touches on human behavior and societal trends. Modern psychological and sociological studies might explore the motivations behind skepticism and mockery, especially in matters of faith and convictions. However, the claim of an eschatological “last time” is not subject to scientific validation, as it is a religious belief.

Commentaries

Various experts in biblical scholarship have commented on Jude 1:18. For instance, Matthew Henry’s Commentary views the mockers as people making light of the things of God and serving their own sinful pleasures. He emphasizes the need for Christians to remember the predictions of the apostles about these difficulties. The Pulpit Commentary suggests that Jude is pointing to a fulfillment of previous warnings given by the apostles and highlights the link between doctrinal error and immoral practice. These experts emphasize the need for faith and moral integrity in confronting challenges to Christian doctrine and ethics.