Jude 1:22

Commentary on Jude 22 (NKJV)

Jude 22 and the Call to Mercy

“And on some have compassion, making a distinction;” This verse is part of Jude’s concluding exhortations, where he instructs believers on how to deal with different categories of people—those who are wavering in faith or are ensnared by false teaching. In the broader context, Jude 22 underlines the imperative to extend mercy and discernment, reflecting a commitment to truth tempered by love.

This teaching is deeply rooted in the theological emphasis on God’s sovereign mercy. Believers, saved by grace, are called to imitate God’s character by showing compassion to those who doubt or struggle. This mercy is not indiscriminate but is exercised with discernment (as the latter part of the verse indicates), recognising the spiritual condition of each individual and responding appropriately.

Context within the Book of Jude

The book of Jude, a brief yet profound epistle, is a call to contend for the faith against false teachers who pervert the grace of God (Jude 3–4). In verses preceding Jude 22, the author emphasises building oneself up in faith, praying in the Spirit, and keeping in the love of God (Jude 20–21). These spiritual disciplines equip believers to reach out to others with mercy and wisdom.

Jude 22 stands as a practical application of the believer’s faith. It moves beyond self-preservation to engaging with those in need, especially those confused by falsehoods. This action mirrors Christ’s ministry of grace and truth, as believers are both guardians of the gospel and instruments of restoration.

Theological Insights

God’s Mercy as a Model:

God demonstrates His mercy to undeserving sinners (Ephesians 2:4–5). This divine mercy shapes the believer’s approach to others. Just as Christ showed compassion to the weak and wandering, Christians are to exhibit the same attitude to those who doubt.

Discernment in Mercy:

The phrase “making a distinction” implies wisdom in dealing with others. Mercy is guided by truth. Showing compassion does not mean condoning sin or compromising doctrine. Instead, it involves careful discernment, distinguishing between those who are sincerely doubting and those entrenched in rebellion.

Faith-Driven Action:

Extending mercy is a fruit of saving faith. Good works, including acts of compassion, are a result of God’s work within believers (James 2:26). Jude 22 embodies this principle as it calls believers to live out their faith in tangible ways.

Application to Modern Christian Living

Jude 22 remains profoundly relevant for contemporary believers. In a culture where doubt and spiritual confusion are prevalent, Christians are called to embody the gospel through acts of mercy. Key applications include:

Engaging Doubters with Grace:

Many today wrestle with faith questions due to secular influences or personal struggles. Jude 22 challenges believers to patiently and lovingly address these doubts, offering biblical truth without judgmentalism.

Practising Discernment:

The modern church faces doctrinal challenges from within and without. Jude 22 encourages discernment in addressing these issues, aiming to restore rather than alienate.

Reflecting Christ’s Love:

The mercy shown to doubters is a reflection of Christ’s love. Modern believers can draw from Jude 22 to balance doctrinal fidelity with compassion, fostering an environment where faith can grow.

In summary, Jude 22 offers profound theological and practical lessons. It calls believers to extend mercy with discernment, reflecting the character of God in their interactions. This balance of compassion and truth serves as a guiding principle for faithful Christian living amidst modern challenges.