Jude 1:3

KJV

¶ Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort [you] that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

KJV (with Strong's)

Beloved {G27}, when I gave {G4160} all {G3956} diligence {G4710} to write {G1125} unto you {G5213} of {G4012} the common {G2839} salvation {G4991}, it was {G2192} needful {G318} for me {G2192} to write {G1125} unto you {G5213}, and exhort {G3870} you that ye should earnestly contend {G1864} for the faith {G4102} which was once {G530} delivered {G3860} unto the saints {G40}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Dear friends, I was busily at work writing to you about the salvation we share, when I found it necessary to write, urging you to keep contending earnestly for the faith which was once and for all passed on to God’s people.

Berean Standard Bible

Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints.

American Standard Version

Beloved, while I was giving all diligence to write unto you of our common salvation, I was constrained to write unto you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jude 1:3 serves as the foundational declaration of the epistle's urgent purpose, revealing a critical shift in the author's intended message. Initially, Jude desired to expound upon the glorious reality of the "common salvation" shared by all believers, a theme of unity and shared grace. However, the pressing necessity of addressing the insidious infiltration of false teachers and their corrupt doctrines compelled him to pivot, issuing an impassioned call for believers to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints," thereby establishing the letter's primary focus on defending the purity of Christian truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jude's epistle is a concise yet potent letter, following the general epistles and preceding Revelation. It is closely related to 2 Peter, sharing common themes and even specific phrases, particularly regarding the description and condemnation of false teachers. This verse immediately establishes Jude's identity as a "servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James," likely referring to James the Just, the leader of the Jerusalem church and half-brother of Jesus, lending significant apostolic authority to his message. The shift from his initial desire to write about "common salvation" to the urgent need to "earnestly contend for the faith" sets the stage for the entire letter, which is primarily a polemic against apostasy and moral decay within the early Christian community. The subsequent verses (Jude 1:4-16) then proceed to detail the nature and consequences of these false teachings and the character of those who propagate them.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church, still in its formative decades, faced significant internal and external pressures. Internally, various heresies began to emerge, often blending Christian concepts with Gnostic-like ideas, antinomianism (the belief that moral laws are not binding for Christians), or other syncretistic philosophies. These false teachers, often characterized by their immoral behavior and rejection of authority, threatened to corrupt the purity of the gospel and lead believers astray. Externally, Christians faced persecution and societal pressures that demanded clarity and conviction regarding their beliefs. Jude's letter reflects a critical moment when the nascent church had to define and defend its core doctrines against internal subversion, ensuring the integrity of the apostolic message in a diverse and often hostile Greco-Roman world. The "saints" to whom the faith was delivered were the early believers, living in a time when the foundational truths of Christianity were being established and simultaneously challenged.
* **Key Themes:** Jude 1:3 introduces several pivotal themes that permeate the epistle. The concept of "common salvation" underscores the **unity of believers** in Christ, highlighting that salvation is not an exclusive possession but a shared inheritance, accessible to all who believe, as seen in [Ephesians 4:4-6](/ephesians/4-4-6 "Ephesians 4:4-6 - Unity in the Spirit"). This shared experience forms the backdrop against which the threat of division by false teaching becomes even more grievous. The central command to "earnestly contend for the faith" introduces the theme of **spiritual vigilance and defense of truth**. This is not a call to physical aggression but to a resolute and active intellectual and spiritual struggle against error, mirroring the call for believers to be prepared for spiritual warfare in [Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Full Armor of God"). Finally, "the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" emphasizes the **finality and immutability of apostolic doctrine**. This "faith" refers to the entire body of Christian truth, revealed definitively and completely, serving as an unchanging standard against which all new teachings must be measured, akin to the early church's devotion to [the apostles' teaching](/acts/2-42 "Acts 2:42 - The Early Church's Devotion").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Beloved (Greek, _agapētós_):** This term, derived from _agapaō_ (to love), signifies a deep, affectionate, and cherished relationship. Jude's use of "Beloved" at the outset of such a stern and urgent letter is significant. It demonstrates that his forthcoming exhortation, though strong, flows from a place of genuine pastoral care and love for his readers. It softens the tone, assuring them that the warning is for their good and spiritual preservation, not condemnation.
* **earnestly contend (Greek, _epagōnízomai_):** This powerful verb is a compound of _epi_ (upon, against, intensifying) and _agōnízomai_ (to struggle, to compete in an athletic contest, to fight). It evokes the image of an intense, all-out struggle, like a wrestler or an athlete striving with every fiber of their being to win. The prefix _epi_ suggests a struggle *for* something or *against* something with great intensity. It implies a vigorous, sustained, and public defense of the faith, not a passive or half-hearted effort. It is a call to active engagement in spiritual warfare for the truth.
* **delivered (Greek, _paradídōmi_):** This verb means "to surrender, yield up, intrust, transmit, hand over." In this context, it speaks of the authoritative transmission of a sacred trust. It implies that the "faith" was not something humanly devised or evolving, but a definitive body of truth that was "handed down" or "entrusted" by God through the apostles to the saints. This emphasizes the objective, historical, and unchangeable nature of Christian doctrine, a deposit of truth to be guarded and preserved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation":** Jude begins with an affectionate address, "Beloved," setting a pastoral tone despite the severity of his message. He then reveals his initial intention: to write a treatise on "the common salvation." This phrase points to the shared experience of redemption in Christ that unites all believers, emphasizing the universality and unity of God's saving grace. The phrase "gave all diligence" (Greek: _spoudē poieō_) indicates Jude's earnest effort and eagerness to communicate this positive, unifying truth.
* **"it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort [you]":** Here, Jude explains the pivotal shift in his purpose. The phrase "it was needful" (Greek: _anankē echō_) conveys a sense of divine compulsion or urgent necessity. Something had arisen that made his original topic secondary to a more pressing matter. This necessity compelled him not merely to write, but to "exhort" (Greek: _parakaleō_), which means to call alongside, to encourage, to urge strongly. This highlights the imperative nature of his revised message.
* **"that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints":** This is the core command and the epistle's central theme. The "faith" here refers not to subjective belief, but to the objective body of Christian doctrine and truth—the gospel message and its implications. To "earnestly contend" (Greek: _epagōnízomai_) means to struggle intensely, like an athlete in a contest, to defend this truth. The phrase "which was once delivered" (Greek: _hapax paradidōmi_) emphasizes the finality and completeness of this revealed truth. It was delivered "once for all," signifying that it is a fixed, unalterable deposit, not subject to ongoing revision or supplementation, and it was entrusted to "the saints"—all believers, who are called to be its guardians.

#### Literary Devices
Jude 1:3 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its urgent message. The use of **Apostrophe** is evident in the direct address "Beloved," which immediately establishes a personal and affectionate connection with the recipients, softening the impending stern command and reinforcing the pastoral heart behind the warning. The central command, "earnestly contend," functions as a powerful **Metaphor** drawn from the athletic arena, specifically wrestling or intense competition. This vivid imagery communicates the strenuous, all-out effort required to defend the truth, implying a spiritual battle that demands vigilance and active participation. Furthermore, Jude utilizes **Emphasis** through the phrase "all diligence" (referring to his initial intent) contrasted with "it was needful" (his compelled shift), highlighting the gravity of the situation that necessitated a change in focus. The phrase "once delivered" also serves as a crucial point of **Emphasis**, underscoring the definitive, unchangeable, and complete nature of the Christian faith, setting it apart from any contemporary innovations or deviations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jude 1:3 is a theological powerhouse, connecting the unity of the church, the nature of divine revelation, and the believer's responsibility in spiritual warfare. The "common salvation" underscores the theological truth that all who are saved are united in Christ, sharing the same divine grace, redemption, and inheritance, transcending human distinctions. This shared salvation forms the basis for the church's unity, making any internal division or doctrinal corruption particularly grievous. The call to "earnestly contend for the faith" speaks to the active and ongoing responsibility of every believer and the church as a whole to guard the integrity of God's revealed truth. This is not about personal opinion but about preserving the objective, divinely revealed "faith" – the gospel and its foundational doctrines. The phrase "once delivered unto the saints" highlights the concept of **divine revelation as a completed deposit**, emphasizing the sufficiency and finality of God's word as revealed through Christ and the apostles, serving as the ultimate standard against which all teachings must be measured.

* [Philippians 1:27](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Striving for the Faith of the Gospel")
* [2 Timothy 1:13-14](/2_timothy/1-13-14 "2 Timothy 1:13-14 - Guard the Good Deposit")
* [Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - No Other Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jude 1:3 remains profoundly relevant for believers today, serving as a timeless mandate for spiritual discernment and courageous defense of truth. In an era marked by diverse spiritual claims, moral relativism, and the proliferation of information, the call to "earnestly contend for the faith" is more critical than ever. It compels us to be vigilant against teachings that subtly or overtly deviate from biblical truth, whether they arise from within or outside the church. This contention is not a call to anger or divisiveness, but to a firm, loving, and well-informed defense of the gospel. It requires believers to deeply know the "faith once delivered"—to be rooted in Scripture and sound doctrine—so that they can accurately discern error and articulate truth. Our responsibility is to preserve the purity of the apostolic message, ensuring that future generations receive the unadulterated gospel, thereby upholding the integrity of Christ's church against all forms of spiritual compromise and deception.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "false teachings" or cultural pressures today challenge the "faith which was once delivered unto the saints"?**
* **In what practical ways can I "earnestly contend for the faith" in my daily life, both personally and within my community?**
* **How does my understanding of "the common salvation" motivate me to defend the truth with both conviction and love?**
* **What steps can I take to deepen my knowledge of "the faith once delivered" so that I am better equipped to discern and defend it?**

### FAQ

**What does "earnestly contend for the faith" actually mean in practice?**

Answer: "Earnestly contend for the faith" (from the Greek _epagōnízomai_) means to actively and intensely struggle or strive for the preservation and defense of the core truths of Christianity. In practice, this does not imply physical violence or aggressive argumentation for its own sake. Instead, it involves several key actions: **1. Deep Biblical Literacy:** Knowing what the "faith" is, as revealed in Scripture, is foundational. This means diligent study of God's Word ([2 Timothy 2:15](/2_timothy/2-15 "2 Timothy 2:15 - Study to show yourself approved")). **2. Discernment:** Being able to identify and differentiate between sound doctrine and false teaching, which often appears subtle or appealing ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")). **3. Articulate Defense:** Being prepared to explain and defend Christian beliefs logically and winsomely, using Scripture as the ultimate authority ([1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Always be prepared to give an answer")). **4. Moral Purity:** Living a life consistent with the faith, as false teaching often accompanies moral compromise. **5. Prayer and Spiritual Warfare:** Recognizing that the battle is spiritual and requires divine strength ([Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Our Struggle is Not Against Flesh and Blood")). It is a call to courageous and vigilant stewardship of the truth, done with love and humility.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jude's urgent call to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Jesus Christ. The "common salvation" Jude initially desired to write about is entirely centered on Christ, for He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and the [only name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved](/acts/4-12 "Acts 4:12 - Salvation Through No Other Name"). The "faith" for which believers are called to contend is not merely a set of abstract doctrines, but the living truth revealed in and through Jesus Christ—His person, His atoning work, His resurrection, and His Lordship. He is the [author and perfecter of our faith](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith"), the very content of the gospel message that was "once delivered." Furthermore, Christ Himself is the ultimate defender of His church and His truth. He promised that the [gates of hell would not prevail against His church](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Church Built on the Rock"), and He continues to uphold all things by the [word of His power](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ Upholds All Things"). Therefore, contending for the faith is ultimately participating in Christ's ongoing work of preserving His bride and proclaiming His unchangeable truth to a world in need of His common, saving grace.

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

1 Timothy 6:12

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Philippians 1:27

¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Jude 1:20

But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

Revelation 12:11

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Titus 1:4

To Titus, [mine] own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, [and] peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

2 Timothy 1:13

Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

Revelation 2:10

Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast [some] of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.