Jude’s life was transformed by God’s truth and the same holds true for the men and women to whom Jude is writing this letter. Though they probably never met or saw Jesus Christ during his time on earth, they still share in the same salvation as Jude. Jude seeks to encourage them by reminding them of some wonderful gospel truths at the very beginning of this letter. All Christians—irrespective of their background and genealogy—have been called, loved, and kept by God.

When they heard God’s truth being proclaimed to them, they received the call of the gospel, the call to be part of God’s kingdom (Romans 10:17). Having responded with faith they are now just like the Israel of old, a people whom God claims, his inherited portion (Psalm 33:12). And this privilege of belonging to God is one that they enjoy because of God’s love. The Lord who created the heavens by his Word determined to set his love upon them. He sent the Son to pay the penalty for their sin and the Spirit to give them new life. God loved them. Though they used to be slaves to sin, they are now part of his family. Finally, having been loved and called, there is the promise that they will be kept. The same hands that made this world have us in their grip and will not let go. From death God will rescue and save, he will keep his people persevering in faith until the very end. At the second coming of Jesus Christ his church, the new Jerusalem, will be presented to him as a bride adorned for her husband.