What does Jude 1:22 mean?

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And of some have compassion, making a difference: Jude 1:22

Explanation

Jude 1:22 is part of the penultimate chapter of the Epistle of Jude in the New Testament. This short epistle, attributed to Jude, the brother of Jesus, focuses largely on warning against false teachers and urging believers to maintain their faith amid apostasy. Here, Jude gives guidance on how to treat those who doubt or have been misled. The verse suggests a compassionate approach to individuals within the community of believers who may be struggling with their faith or are perhaps influenced by false teachings. Instead of condemnation or harsh judgment, Jude advises believers to reach out with empathy, thereby creating a difference in the lives of those individuals. This “making a difference” could refer to leading them back to the truth of the gospel or strengthening their faith.

Historical Context

The Epistle of Jude was likely written in the late first century A.D., a period when the early Christian community was facing internal and external challenges including persecution, false teachings, and moral decay. The epistle aims to combat the influence of individuals, often labeled as “false teachers,” who were leading some church members astray with non-apostolic teachings. In this environment, Jude encourages the faithful to contend for the faith and deal with those who are wavering in different ways—some with caution, others with compassion.

Theological Insights

The verse captures the essence of the Christian principle of agape love, which is selfless and compassionate. Theologically, this love is seen as reflective of the love of Christ, who showed compassion to sinners and those in need. Different theological viewpoints may emphasize various aspects of this compassion:

Calvinist theologians might interpret “making a difference” as an outcome of divine grace, enabling some to be restored to the faith.
Arminian perspectives might emphasize human free will and the responsibility of believers to choose compassion in dealing with the doubting.
Liberation Theology might advocate for this compassion as an act of social justice, reaching out to those marginalized even within the faith community.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages believers to practice discernment and show empathy in their interactions with others, especially those who are struggling with doubt or have been led astray. In daily life, this could mean approaching others with patience and understanding rather than judgment, offering guidance and support to help strengthen their faith or resolve their uncertainties. This approach fosters a nurturing community that is inclusive rather than exclusive.

Cross-References

Galatians 6:1: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”
2 Timothy 2:25: “In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;”
Romans 14:1: “Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.”
1 Peter 4:8: “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”

Language Study

The key phrase in this verse is “making a difference” (διακρίνοντες). The Greek verb διακρίνω (diakrinō) can mean to separate, make a distinction, discriminate, or even doubt. In the context of Jude 1:22, it carries the connotation of discerning the needs of individuals to provide appropriate care. This language note emphasizes the responsibility of the believer to discern and act with understanding towards each person’s situation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The idea of compassion found in Jude 1:22 bears similarities to teachings in other religious traditions.

In Buddhism, compassion (karuṇā) is a fundamental part of the path towards enlightenment, emphasizing understanding and love for all beings.
In Hinduism, acts of kindness and compassion (daya) are seen as expressions of one’s dharma, or duty, in society.
In Judaism, acts of lovingkindness (chesed) are integral to religious life and the fostering of community ties.

This commonality underscores a value shared across many cultures and religions regarding the importance of compassion in human interactions.

Scientific Perspectives

The call for compassion has correlations in modern scientific understandings of psychology and sociology. Research in these fields underlines the positive effects of compassion on social cohesion, mental health, and individual well-being. From a neurological standpoint, compassionate behavior can activate the brain’s reward system, suggesting an innate human tendency toward empathy and social cooperation.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Jude 1:22 often highlight the balance required between truth and love in the Christian life. Renowned scholars like Matthew Henry and John Gill discuss the importance of distinguishing between different types of individuals in the church—those who are deceived as opposed to those who are deceivers. They propose that members of the faith community need gentle restoration. More recently, modern commentators have continued to reflect on the necessity of this compassion in ministry and how it works in concert with the pursuit of truth and righteousness in the Christian life.