What does Jude 1:22 mean?
This verse emphasizes a distinction between those who sincerely "doubt," as opposed to those who are rebellious and arrogant: the "scoffers" who are not really seeking truth (Jude 1:10). Jude encourages his readers to show mercy to those who have doubts, perhaps doubts sown by the apostates concerning the truth. This was a key danger presented by Jude, that the presence of false teachers was like a "hidden reef" among the members of the church (Jude 1:12). The key attitude Jude presents here is mercy—a caring compassion—instead of a judgmental anger or rejection.Strong believers should deal with doubters patiently and with love (Ephesians 4:2). Harsh criticism only drives doubters farther away from the truth. Some doubters might be on the verge of trusting in Jesus as their Savior, but they have intellectual questions. Believers can answer those concerns (1 Peter 3:15–16) if they extend enough mercy to those sincere seekers.
Jude 1:17–23 lays out Jude's plan of action for recognizing, resisting, and defeating apostates. Prior verses were devoted to explaining how, and why, these false teachers were dangerous. Those who followed their examples were bound for eternal judgment. Here, Jude provides a means to avoid these liars, as well as their fate.
Jude's brief letter describes men at their worst and God at His best. Believers are already on the victorious side! Those who mock God's truth and who follow their own desires all while claiming to be Christians, are the most dangerous kind of unbelievers. These persons pose a danger to themselves and to any Christians they might influence. In response, Christians need to focus on understanding the truth of God's written Word and submitting to His will.
