1:5 1:5

Jude 1:6

1:7 1:7

Bible Versions

And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
And {G5037} the angels {G32} which kept {G5083} not {G3361} their {G1438} first estate {G746}, but {G235} left {G620} their own {G2398} habitation {G3613}, he hath reserved {G5083} in everlasting {G126} chains {G1199} under {G5259} darkness {G2217} unto {G1519} the judgment {G2920} of the great {G3173} day {G2250}.
And the angels that did not keep within their original authority, but abandoned their proper sphere, he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for the Judgment of the Great Day.
And the angels who did not stay within their own domain but abandoned their proper dwelling—these He has kept in eternal chains under darkness, bound for judgment on that great day.
And angels that kept not their own principality, but left their proper habitation, he hath kept in everlasting bonds under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

Jude 1:6 serves as a stark warning, illustrating God's unwavering judgment against rebellion, even among celestial beings. Within this concise epistle, Jude presents a series of historical examples to underscore the certainty of divine retribution for those who deviate from God's established order and truth.

Context

The book of Jude is a powerful, urgent call to "earnestly contend for the faith" against false teachers who had infiltrated the early Christian communities. To emphasize the gravity of their apostasy and the inevitability of their judgment, Jude cites several historical precedents of God's swift and severe punishment. These include the Israelites who perished in the wilderness (Jude 1:5), and here, the rebellious angels. This verse highlights that even powerful, spiritual beings are not exempt from God's justice when they rebel against His authority and design.

Key Themes

  • Angelic Rebellion and Disobedience: The verse speaks of "angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation." This refers to a specific group of angels who rebelled against God's order and abandoned their divinely appointed roles or dwelling places. While the exact nature of their sin is debated, it signifies a profound act of disobedience and a rejection of their created purpose. This rebellion is distinct from the general fall of Satan and his angels, though it is related in principle.
  • Divine Reservation and Imprisonment: God "hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness" these fallen angels. This imagery conveys a state of secure and inescapable confinement. The "everlasting chains" imply a judgment that is eternal in its effect, not necessarily a literal physical chain, but an unbreakable bond of divine decree that holds them captive. The "darkness" symbolizes their spiritual and literal deprivation, cut off from God's light and presence.
  • Certainty of Future Judgment: Their reservation is "unto the judgment of the great day." This indicates that their current imprisonment is a prelude to a final, definitive sentencing. The "great day" refers to the ultimate day of God's judgment, often associated with the Great White Throne Judgment or the final reckoning for all unrighteousness. This theme assures believers that justice will ultimately prevail.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "first estate" comes from the Greek word arche (ἀρχή), which can mean 'beginning,' 'origin,' 'rule,' 'dominion,' or 'principality.' In this context, it likely refers to their original position of authority, rank, or divinely appointed sphere of operation. By "kept not their first estate," they failed to maintain their proper place or authority given by God. The term "habitation" (Greek: oiketerion, οἰκητήριον) refers to a dwelling place or abode, reinforcing the idea that they abandoned their assigned realm or spiritual dwelling.

Related Scriptures

This verse finds a strong parallel in 2 Peter 2:4, which similarly states, "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment." Both passages underscore God's impartiality in judgment. The broader concept of angelic rebellion is hinted at in passages like Isaiah 14:12-15 concerning Lucifer, and Luke 10:18 where Jesus speaks of Satan falling like lightning. The final judgment for such beings is also referenced in Matthew 25:41.

Practical Application

Jude 1:6 offers several profound lessons for believers today:

  • God's Unwavering Justice: It demonstrates that God's justice is absolute and applies to all beings, regardless of their power or original standing. No one is above His law.
  • Seriousness of Disobedience: The severe punishment of these angels highlights the gravity of rebelling against God's commands and abandoning one's God-given purpose.
  • Assurance of Final Judgment: For those who are concerned about evil seemingly prevailing, this verse provides comfort that all forms of rebellion and unrighteousness will ultimately face definitive judgment on the appointed day.
  • Warning Against Apostasy: In the immediate context of Jude, this serves as a powerful warning to false teachers and those who might be tempted to follow them. If God did not spare angels, He will certainly not spare those who distort His truth among humanity.
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.

  • 2 Peter 2:4

    For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast [them] down to hell, and delivered [them] into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

  • Matthew 25:41

    Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

  • Ephesians 6:12

    For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

  • Matthew 8:29

    And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

  • 2 Peter 2:9

    The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:

  • Hebrews 10:27

    But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

  • John 8:44

    Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
 Back

Search Scripture