Verse 16
Enoch spoke of the words and the deeds of the ungodly in the quotation just cited. Jude commented further on the words and deeds of the contemporary false teachers in this verse. As the former grumblers, the false teachers in his day grumbled primarily against God.
"He who is out of touch with God is prone to grumble about anything." [Note: Hiebert, "An Exposition . . . 12-16," p. 247.]
They pursued their lusts for sensuality and gain (cf. Judges 1:4; Judges 1:8; Judges 1:10-11). Their arrogant words probably refer to what they claimed was true about God that contradicted apostolic revelation (cf. Daniel 11:36). Furthermore they flattered people to obtain personal advantage (cf. James 2:1-13).
"As the fear of God drives out the fear of man, so defiance of God tends to put man in His place, as the chief source of good or evil to his fellows." [Note: Mayor, 5:272.]
IV. EXHORTATIONS TO THE FAITHFUL VV. 17-23
Having warned his readers about the failures of false teachers, Jude proceeded to exhort them positively to move them to persevere faithfully in spite of the danger that faced them.
"With these verses Jude turns from burning denunciation of the apostates to provide loving guidance and encouragement to the faithful amid apostasy." [Note: Hiebert, Second Peter . . ., p. 273.]
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