Jude 1:17

KJV

But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161}, beloved {G27}, remember {G3415} ye {G5210} the words {G4487} which {G3588} were spoken before {G4280} of {G5259} the apostles {G652} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547};

Complete Jewish Bible

But you, dear friends, keep in mind the words spoken in advance by the emissaries of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

But you, beloved, remember what was foretold by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ

American Standard Version

But ye, beloved, remember ye the words which have been spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jude 1:17 marks a crucial pivot in Jude's urgent epistle, transitioning from a severe denunciation of false teachers and their impending judgment to a pastoral exhortation for the faithful. Having meticulously exposed the character and destiny of those who subtly infiltrated the church, Jude now turns to his "beloved" audience, urging them to recall and steadfastly adhere to the foundational truths and prophetic warnings previously delivered by the apostles of Jesus Christ. This verse serves as a call to remember and rely on established apostolic teaching as a bulwark against the very deceptions Jude is combating.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jude's epistle is a concise yet powerful call to contend for the faith against insidious heretical influences. Prior to [Jude 1:17](/jude/1-17 "Jude 1:17 - Remember the Apostles' Words"), the author dedicates significant space (from [Jude 1:4](/jude/1-4 "Jude 1:4 - False Teachers Creeping In") through [Jude 1:16](/jude/1-16 "Jude 1:16 - Description of False Teachers")) to exposing the nature and inevitable judgment of false teachers who had "crept in unawares" ([Jude 1:4](/jude/1-4 "Jude 1:4 - False Teachers Creeping In")). He employs vivid Old Testament examples of rebellion and divine wrath (e.g., the Israelites in the wilderness, Sodom and Gomorrah, Korah's rebellion) to illustrate their fate. These deceivers are graphically depicted as "spots in your feasts of charity, clouds without water, trees whose fruit withereth" ([Jude 1:12](/jude/1-12 "Jude 1:12 - False Teachers Described")). Against this backdrop of spiritual danger and the detailed description of apostasy, [Jude 1:17](/jude/1-17 "Jude 1:17 - Remember the Apostles' Words") initiates a shift from warning to instruction, providing practical guidance for how believers can stand firm amidst such threats.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early Christian church, still in its formative years, was highly susceptible to internal doctrinal corruption. Jude's letter reflects a period when various forms of Gnosticism or proto-Gnosticism, characterized by antinomianism (a belief that moral laws are not binding for Christians), libertinism, and a rejection of apostolic authority, were emerging. These false teachers, often claiming special knowledge or spiritual superiority, would exploit Christian liberty as an excuse for immoral behavior and deny the Lordship of Christ. In this environment, the oral tradition and written teachings of the apostles were the primary means by which the foundational truths of the Gospel were preserved and transmitted. Believers relied on the consistent message of those who had been eyewitnesses to Christ and commissioned by Him. Jude's call to "remember" emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to this established, authoritative teaching in a time when new, deceptive doctrines were actively undermining the faith.

* **Key Themes:** [Jude 1:17](/jude/1-17 "Jude 1:17 - Remembering Apostolic Warnings") contributes significantly to several key themes within the epistle and broader New Testament. Firstly, it underscores the **Apostolic Authority and Foundation** of Christian faith. The words of the apostles were not mere human opinions but divinely inspired revelations, forming the bedrock upon which the church is built, as seen in [Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets"). Secondly, the verse highlights **Doctrinal Purity and the Importance of Remembering**. In an era of emerging heresies, Jude urges believers to recall and cling to the original, pure teachings passed down by the apostles. This act of remembering is crucial for spiritual discernment and for standing firm against error, reinforcing the call to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" in [Jude 1:3](/jude/1-3 "Jude 1:3 - Contend for the Faith"). Lastly, the verse carries an implicit **Warning Against Apostasy**, reminding believers that the apostles had foretold the rise of scoffers and false teachers, especially in the "last days" ([2 Peter 3:3](/2_peter/3-3 "2 Peter 3:3 - Scoffers in the Last Days"); [1 Timothy 4:1](/1_timothy/4-1 "1 Timothy 4:1 - Departing from the Faith")). By remembering these prophecies, believers would be better prepared to recognize and resist the deceivers, understanding that such challenges were not unexpected but divinely anticipated.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **beloved (Greek, _agapētós_):** This term, derived from _agapaō_ (to love), signifies a deep, affectionate endearment. Jude's use of "beloved" (G27) here is a tender pastoral address, demonstrating his profound care and concern for his readers. It highlights that his admonition to remember is rooted in love, not condemnation, and serves to reassure his audience of their standing in Christ despite the severe warnings he has just issued.
* **remember (Greek, _mnáomai_):** This verb (G3415) denotes the act of bearing in mind, recollecting, or calling to remembrance. It implies a conscious, intentional act of recalling and adhering to past teachings. In this context, it is not a passive mental exercise but an active commitment to the truths previously communicated, serving as a vital safeguard against spiritual deception and a call to firm resolve.
* **spoken before (Greek, _proeréō_):** This compound verb (G4280), formed from _pro_ (before) and _ereō_ (to say), means "to say already" or "to predict." It indicates that the apostles had previously uttered specific words or prophecies, particularly concerning the rise of scoffers and false teachers in the end times. This foresight underscores the divine inspiration of the apostles' message and suggests that the current spiritual challenges were not unforeseen but had been accurately foretold, thus preparing the faithful.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But, beloved,"**: This opening phrase signals a crucial transition in Jude's letter. The conjunction "But" (G1161, _dé_) indicates a shift from the preceding detailed condemnation of false teachers to a direct, pastoral exhortation to the faithful. The address "beloved" (G27, _agapētós_) is a term of endearment, revealing Jude's deep affection and pastoral care for his readers, softening the tone after the harsh warnings and preparing them to receive instruction.
* **"remember ye the words"**: This is the core imperative of the verse. Jude urges his audience to actively recall and hold fast to specific teachings. The "words" (G4487, _rhēma_) refer to authoritative utterances or pronouncements. This is not a vague recollection but a deliberate act of bringing to mind and applying the foundational truths and prophetic warnings they had previously received.
* **"which were spoken before of the apostles"**: This clause identifies the source and nature of the "words" to be remembered. They are not new revelations but established truths "spoken before" (G4280, _proeréō_), indicating a prior, authoritative declaration. The authority is explicitly attributed to "the apostles" (G652, _apóstolos_), who were Christ's commissioned messengers, ensuring the divine origin and reliability of these teachings.
* **"of our Lord Jesus Christ;"**: This final phrase anchors the apostles' authority directly to Christ Himself. The apostles' words are not their own but derive their power and truth from "our Lord Jesus Christ" (G2962, _kýrios_ G2424, _Iēsoûs_ G5547, _Christós_). This emphasizes that the apostolic message is fundamentally Christ-centered and possesses ultimate divine authority, making adherence to it paramount for believers.

#### Literary Devices
Jude 1:17 skillfully employs several literary devices to convey its urgent message. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, as Jude directly addresses his readers as "beloved," a tender and affectionate term that establishes a pastoral tone and reinforces his genuine concern for their spiritual well-being, even amidst severe warnings. This personal address creates a sense of intimacy and trust. The verse also functions as an **Exhortation**, an urgent appeal or command, specifically conveyed through the imperative "remember." This is not a gentle suggestion but a direct call to action, emphasizing the critical importance of actively recalling and adhering to the apostolic teachings. Furthermore, the conjunction "But" at the beginning of the verse signifies a **Transition** or **Contrast**, marking a shift from the preceding lengthy denunciation of false teachers to a new section of pastoral instruction and encouragement for the faithful. This structural shift highlights the practical application of the warnings Jude has just delivered, guiding believers on how to respond to the spiritual dangers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jude 1:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring authority of apostolic teaching as the bedrock of Christian faith. Theologically, it underscores the concept of a "once for all delivered" faith, emphasizing that the core truths of the Gospel are not subject to reinterpretation or innovation by every new generation or spiritual movement. The apostles, as direct recipients of Christ's revelation and empowered by the Holy Spirit, laid down the foundational doctrines that serve as the ultimate standard for truth and error. Remembering their words is not merely an act of historical recollection but an active commitment to doctrinal purity and a safeguard against the very apostasy Jude warns against. This verse implicitly affirms the sufficiency and finality of the apostolic witness concerning Christ and His truth, making adherence to it essential for the church's health and integrity.

* [Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Built on the Foundation")
* [2 Peter 3:2](/2_peter/3-2 "2 Peter 3:2 - Remember the Words Spoken Before")
* [2 Timothy 3:16-17](/2_timothy/3-16-17 "2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In an age saturated with information, competing worldviews, and diverse spiritual claims, Jude 1:17 offers a timeless and vital directive for believers: remember the foundational truths delivered by the apostles. This is not a call to blind adherence but to a discerning commitment to the revealed Word of God. Just as Jude's audience faced deceptive influences, so too do we encounter teachings that subtly undermine biblical authority, redefine Christian ethics, or promote a distorted view of God's grace. Our spiritual stability and ability to discern truth from error depend on our unwavering commitment to the authoritative teachings of Scripture, which are the written embodiment of the apostles' words. By diligently immersing ourselves in the Bible, we build a robust theological framework that enables us to recognize and resist the subtle snares of false doctrine, ensuring that our faith remains anchored in the unchangeable truth of Christ. This active remembrance equips us not only to stand firm but also to "contend for the faith" with grace and conviction, preserving the purity of the Gospel for future generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "words" of the apostles do you find most crucial to remember and apply in your daily life?**
* **How does actively remembering apostolic teachings help you discern truth from error in contemporary spiritual discussions?**
* **In what ways can you more intentionally "remember" and internalize the foundational truths of Scripture in your personal walk with Christ?**
* **How does the authority of the apostles, rooted in Christ, impact your view of the Bible's authority today?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ" Jude refers to?**

Answer: The "apostles" (Greek: _apóstolos_) refer to the select group of individuals directly commissioned by Jesus Christ to be His authoritative representatives and witnesses, particularly to His resurrection. This primarily includes the original twelve disciples (minus Judas, replaced by Matthias in [Acts 1:26](/acts/1-26 "Acts 1:26 - Matthias Chosen")) and Paul, who received a special commission from the risen Christ ([Galatians 1:1](/galatians/1-1 "Galatians 1:1 - Paul, an Apostle")). Their unique role was to lay the foundation of the church through their eyewitness testimony and divinely inspired teaching ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets")). The "words" they spoke before would include both their oral teachings and the writings that later became the New Testament Scriptures, which contained prophecies about future apostasy and warnings against false teachers ([2 Peter 3:3](/2_peter/3-3 "2 Peter 3:3 - Scoffers Will Come"); [1 Timothy 4:1](/1_timothy/4-1 "1 Timothy 4:1 - Some Will Depart from the Faith")).

**Why is "remembering" so important in this context?**

Answer: "Remembering" (Greek: _mnáomai_) in Jude 1:17 is a crucial act for several reasons. First, it implies a call to doctrinal fidelity. In a time of emerging heresies, Jude urges believers to cling to the original, pure teachings passed down by the apostles, rather than being swayed by novel doctrines. Second, it serves as a spiritual defense mechanism. The apostles had forewarned that false teachers and scoffers would arise ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning to the Ephesian Elders")), and remembering these prophecies helps believers recognize and resist deception. Third, it reinforces the authority of the apostolic message, reminding the audience that these truths are not new or arbitrary but are foundational to their faith, having been delivered by those directly commissioned by Christ. This active recall strengthens their resolve to "contend for the faith" ([Jude 1:3](/jude/1-3 "Jude 1:3 - Contend for the Faith")) against those who would pervert it.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jude 1:17 directly calls believers to remember the words of the apostles, its ultimate fulfillment and significance are profoundly Christ-centered. The apostles' authority and the truth of their words derive entirely from Jesus Christ. They were His chosen witnesses ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth")), commissioned to proclaim His gospel ([Mark 16:15](/mark/16-15 "Mark 16:15 - The Great Commission")) and establish His church. Therefore, remembering the apostles' words is fundamentally remembering the words and truth of Christ Himself, for they spoke and wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit whom Christ sent ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Will Guide You")). The warnings against false teachers are implicitly warnings against those who deny or distort the truth about Christ, His person, and His work ([2 John 1:7](/2_john/1-7 "2 John 1:7 - Many Deceivers Have Gone Out")). The "words spoken before" by the apostles, particularly concerning the coming of scoffers, find their ultimate resolution in Christ's final victory over all evil and deception ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return")). Thus, by anchoring themselves to the apostolic message, believers are not merely adhering to human tradition, but are building their faith on the unshakeable foundation of Christ, the chief cornerstone ([1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation")), who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Peter 3:2

That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:

1 John 4:6

We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

Ephesians 4:11

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Acts 20:35

I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Malachi 4:4

¶ Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, [with] the statutes and judgments.

Ephesians 2:20

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner [stone];