Today we begin the letter written by Jesus’ other half-brother, Jude, originally known as Judas (see Sept 1). His letter follows the pattern of the day where the author gives his name and his relationship to significant people or places. It is interesting that both James and Jude mention their relationship to Jesus but do not identify themselves as His brothers. Notice how, in verse 1, Jude identifies himself as a “servant” of Jesus Christ.

Jude also names his brother James, an apostle and leader in the church. The Apostle Paul mentioned James in his letter to the Galatians: “I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days. I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother” (Gal. 1:18–19). Although other biblical authors note these familial connections, James and Jude seemed to steer away from such self-promotion.

There is probably some level of humility that kept James and Jude from claiming Jesus as a sibling. After all, they didn’t believe in Him until after His resurrection (at least this was true for James). Certainly, the skepticism with which they originally treated Jesus would have been a constant reminder that only by the grace of God had their eyes been opened to the truth.

This may help explain Jude’s address to his readers. “To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ” (v. 1). It was God (and nobody else) who called Jude, and calls us, to Himself. We are loved by an infinite God who has sovereignly chosen to pour out His affection upon us for His own divine purpose. We are called to serve, worship, enjoy and adore Jesus Christ throughout all eternity. We can accept from God His “mercy, peace and love in abundance” (v. 2).

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