For those participating in the SOAP Bible Reading schedule, here is an introduction to the readings from Jude that begin today (Taken from GotQuestions.org).
Author: Jude 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Jude as Jude, a brother of James. This likely refers to Jesus’ half-brother Jude, as Jesus also had a half-brother named James (Matthew 13:55). Jude likely does not identify himself as a brother of Jesus out of humility and reverence for Christ.
Date of Writing: The Book of Jude has a close relationship with the Book of 2 Peter. The date of authorship for Jude depends on whether Jude used content from 2 Peter, or Peter used content from Jude for 2 Peter. The Book of Jude was written somewhere between 60 and 80 A.D.
Purpose of Writing: The Book of Jude is an important book for us today because it is written for the end times, for the end of the Church Age. The Church Age began at the Day of Pentecost. Jude is the only book given entirely to the great apostasy. The book of Jude writes that evil works are evidence of apostasy. He admonishes us to contend for the faith, for there are tares among the wheat, false brethren are in the Church, the saints are in danger. A small but important book worthy of study, written for the Christian of today.
Brief Summary: According to verse 3, Jude was anxious to write about our salvation, however, he changed topics to contending for the faith. This faith embodies the complete body of Christian doctrine taught by Christ, later passed onto the apostles. After Jude warns of false teachers (verses 4-16) he directs us to advise on how we can succeed in spiritual warfare (verses 20-21). Wisdom we would well accept and adhere to as we go through these days of the end times.
Practical Application: We live in a unique time in history and this little book can help equip us for the untold challenges of living in the end times. Today’s Christian must be on guard for false doctrines which can so easily deceive us if we are not well versed in the Word. We need to know the Gospel; to protect and defend it; to accept the Lordship of Christ, which is evidenced by a life-change. The most effective Christian life is one that lives the faith in everyday life. Authentic faith always reflects Christ-like behavior. Our life in should reflect our very own heart knowledge that rests on the authority of the Almighty Creator and Father that puts faith into practice. We need that personal relationship with Him, only then will we know His voice so well that we will follow no other.