Rebellious Behavior
November 12, 2023
Jude 1:5-11
5 Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling—these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. 7 In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.
8 In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. 9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” 10 Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct—as irrational animals do—will destroy them.
11 Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.
Read Jude 1:5-7
1. As mentioned in the video from the Bible Project last week, this passage assumes a familiarity with the passages of Numbers 14 (Wilderness rebellion), Genesis 6 (Rebel Angels), Genesis 19 (Sodom and Gomorrah), as well as some material from extra-biblical accounts. If you are not familiar with these episodes, take time to read them now.
2. What is the common thread that binds these three accounts together?
3. Specifically, how do these three accounts provide an example?
4. What do verses 5-7 suggest about the people Jude was describing in the previous verses?
5. In your own experience, when have you knowingly rebelled against God? Before you were a Christian? After? How did that work out for you?
Read Jude 1:8-10
6. From verse 8, discuss how the errors of those Jude writes against are physical, intellectual and spiritual. What are the physical, intellectual, and spiritual temptations that you face in day-to-day life? Which are most difficult for you to overcome?
7. In verse 9 Jude refers to the extra-biblical account known as “The Assumption of Moses” and seems to treat it as an authoritative guide for how believers should behave. Does this trouble you? Why or why not? What might this suggest about the inspiration of Scripture?
8. Verse 10 is difficult. What do you understand it to mean? What is your take-away?
Read Jude 1:11
9. Review the accounts of Cain (Genesis 4), Balaam (Numbers 22-25 & 31:16), and Korah (Numbers 16). Describe the fundamental errors that each of these three made. In what ways are you tempted in these areas? How do these accounts equip you to resist that temptation?