2 Samuel 22:1–51; Jude 1:1–16; Psalm 147:1–20

Some destructive people are unaware of the havoc they cause, while others intentionally inflict pain and division driven by selfish motives. With its concise prose, vivid imagery, and urgent warnings, Jude's letter stands out in Scripture. It was written to equip early Christians to confront false teachers who had infiltrated their community wisely. Today, it offers us valuable guidance for dealing with some of the most challenging people and situations we encounter.

Jude addressed a community troubled by destructive false teachers who “pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (Jude 4). These individuals lacked respect for authority and acted on instinct rather than conviction: “These people blaspheme all that they do not understand, and they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, understand instinctively” (Jude 10).

Jude uses powerful metaphors to describe these false teachers, providing insight into what to look for in destructive individuals: “hidden reefs at your love feasts, self-serving shepherds, waterless clouds carried along by winds, fruitless autumn trees, twice dead and uprooted, wild waves of the sea casting up the foam of their own shameful deeds, wandering stars for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever” (Jude 12–13). These images depict people whose selfish, destructive behaviour is devoid of true conviction. Like wandering stars, these false teachers go off course, potentially leading others astray.

Surprisingly, Jude does not advise his readers to avoid these people. Instead, he calls for a wise and compassionate approach: “Have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh” (Jude 22–23). Engaging with those who doubt and wander requires a profound understanding of our weaknesses and failures. It demands a mature faith.

Jude offers three specific instructions to prepare us for these interactions: build ourselves up in faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and keep ourselves in the love of God (Jude 21–22). Successfully navigating these relationships also requires the support of a God “who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy” (Jude 24).

Consider how the destructive people in your life influence you. Based on this influence, how should you approach or end the relationship? Reflect on Jude’s guidance as you seek wisdom in these challenging situations.