Jude 1:6

2. The example of certain angels v. 6

A group of angels also did not remain in their privileged position near God but left that sphere and so incurred God’s wrath. Some interpreters believe Jude alluded here to Genesis 6:1-4 (but cf. Matthew 22:30). [Note: See Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, 2:551-52, for refutation of this view.] Others believe he was referring to the rebellion of some angels that resulted in Satan’s expulsion from heaven. The second explanation seems more probable to me.

The apocryphal Book of 1 Enoch described this rebellion. Some scholars believe Jude quoted from this book. [Note: E.g., International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, s.v. "Jude, the Epistle of," by William G. Moorehead, 3:1771).] However, others say Jude was only confirming what it said. [Note: E.g., Lenski, pp. 610-12, 650-52.] In either case such a reference is not unusual in the New Testament (cf. Acts 17:28; et al.). Jude was not ascribing divine inspiration to 1 Enoch by quoting or referring to it.

The rebellious angels he referred to are now in bondage and await God’s judgment (cf. 2 Peter 2:4). These appear to be different fallen angels from Satan’s agents who are at work in the world today, namely, the demons who have considerable freedom.

Jude’s point in this illustration was that the apostates in his day had also abandoned a position of great privilege and blessing, namely, the opportunity to serve and glorify God. God would also judge them severely because of their departure. The angels who fell were not elect. Perhaps the apostates in view here were unsaved, though God intended them, as well as the Israelites referred to previously, to be a group for His own possession.

"If the highest beings known in creation were subject to judgment, how much more sinful men!" [Note: Ronald A. Ward, The Epistles of John and Jude: A Study Manual, p. 81.]