An Exposition of Jude 9

Exposition of Jude 9

"Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, Durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee." —Jude 9

Introduction

Historical Background of the author of Jude

The book of Jude was written by “Judas”. Judas was half-brother of Christ. According to Holy Scriptures, Judas was the brother of James. The history of theology has known him as the leader of the church in Jerusalem. In recent years, the identity of Jude has been challenged by many scholars. However, the challenges could not be proved against the identity of Judas. Jude was a Jewish Christian. He was a Hellenized Galilean Jew, who authored the book in a typical Greek style. The series of historical events suggests that the brothers of Jesus had no faith in Christ. The Christ's brothers participated in the praying group, which awaited the appearance of Holy Spirit. The praying group was established during the time of Christ's ministry. James pledged his allegiance to Christ, when Christ was resurrected. According to Constable, there is ample evidence to support that Jude became a believer at the time of resurrection 2. The Jude's letter focuses on Jewish Christians as the recipients of the message.

This research aims to explore the hidden message of Jude 9 and interpret the context of the famous event. The letter points to the series of events pertaining to the death of Moses. Researchers have recorded their interpretation in biblical commentaries, which serve as a useful research source. Biblical hermeneutics serve as the guide for interpreting the true meaning of the Divine message 5. One cannot limit his interpretation to the literal meanings of the message. For that matter, the research presents an analysis of commentaries on Jude 1:9.

Discussion

Jude could not address his people through sermons, so he did it by writing the Message in the form of letters. On a broader perspective, the goal of Jude was to warn people against apostates.

Lord appointed Michael to be the chief archangel, and manifested his job for the Israeli Tribes. Michael was appointed to watch over Israel, and guide the other holy angels. The book of Daniel incorporates many verses that define Michael's position for serving the divine purpose. “And leads the holy angels” (Rev.12:7). The verse 9 elaborates the death of Prophet Moses and articulates the event of burying the body of the prophet. According to religious scriptures, Archangel is the first born of God. The Holy Book, Bible talks about the event of Moses death and points to secret burial of the body of Moses 4.

The event

Moses held the prestige of being the only one, who spoke to God face to face. Moses climbed Mount Nebo, where Lord showed him the whole land from the plains of Moab to the Mediterranean Sea. Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died. In patristic literature, there are many descriptions provided for Moses' death & burial ...