Hebrews 11 has often been called “The Scriptures’ Hall of Fame”. In similar fashion, Jude 11 could easily be dubbed “The Scriptures’ Hall of Infamy”.
“Woe to them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, have run greedily in the error of Balaam for profit, and perished in the rebellion of Korah” (Jude 11).
The examples of Cain, Balaam, and Korah have been recorded for our admonition and learning (1 Corinthians 10:11). When studied and applied appropriately, they can and will make us wise unto salvation (2 Timothy 3:15).
It is because of this ilk of ungodly men that Jude wrote his epistle of exhortation (Jude 3-4). The change agents threatening the faith in Jude’s day were just as dangerous and doomed as Cain, Balaam, and Korah were in their day. The change agents threatening the faith in our day are just as dangerous and doomed as Cain, Balaam, and Korah were in their day.
Change agents who advocate the way of Cain by seeking to presumptuously substitute their preferences in worship in the place of God’s revealed will are dangerous and doomed.
Change agents who run in the error of Balaam by speaking words which compromise the uniqueness and holiness of God’s people are dangerous and doomed.
Change agents who, like Korah, choose the path of rebellion against God’s prescribed leadership in the home and in the church are dangerous and doomed.
Presumptuous worship. Indistinct, unholy living. Perverted leadership. These life-sized displays are found for your investigation and learning in the Scriptures’ Hall of Infamy.
An excellent series, John. Thanks.