What is the context?
Jude introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James. He addresses people who are called, loved by God the Father and kept in Jesus Christ. Before describing the danger facing them, he reminds them of their relationship with God.
The prayer for multiplied mercy, peace and love sets the tone for the letter. Its strong warnings will serve people who are beloved. Jude will return to God’s keeping power and to praise at the end.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley and the USCCB note understand the greeting as reassurance of God’s care for those He has called. Wesley explicitly connects the opening with the later call to remain in God’s love. The letter places God’s care before its warnings and the readers’ response.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Ephesians 1:3–14 describes the Father’s purpose, redemption through Christ and the promised Holy Spirit as the pledge of the inheritance. It gives a fuller account of the saving work within which Jude’s greeting belongs: God gathers a people in Christ to live before Him and praise His glory.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.