Regardless of whether a change agent of the 1st century or 21st century is under consideration, the inspired writer Jude’s portrait is indelibly etched onto in Scripture in just one verse: “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ” (Jude 4).
In addition to their covert methodology (see yesterday’s post), Jude exposes the perverse motivation of these “ungodly men”.
Like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a change agent seeks to camouflage his true character. This is essential because he is a sensual/carnally minded person, who causes divisions, not having the Spirit (Jude 19).
A change agent lacks asebes, a genuine reverence for God. Therefore, his doctrine (i.e. his message) reflects his irreverence for God and his lack of devotion to Him. A change agent’s fundamental motivation is selfish and self-centered in focus. He is completely unlike a godly man who is devoted to God, has a Godward attitude, and seeks to do that which is well-pleasing to God (i.e. he fears God and keeps His commandments).
