Jude 1:1

Verse 1. Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ.

The author first gives his name, and then proceeds to give the means by which he may be identified. He first says, a servant of Jesus Christ. This expression can mean no more nor no less than the same means when used by Paul or John, viz.: an apostle of Jesus Christ. His omission to add the word "apostle" can not militate against this view, otherwise we must conclude that some of the epistles attributed to Paul were written by others, particularly the letters to the Philippians, Thessalonians, Philemon and Hebrews, and those of John, viz.: the first, second and third epistles. The writer, however, proceeds to place his identity beyond cavil by adding, "the brother of James." On this point for further remarks, see introduction.

Sanctified.

Set apart that is, by obedience to the gospel they are sanctified, or set apart to the service of God.

Preserved in Jesus Christ.

Remain free from vices, unspotted from worldly sins, by the observance of those precepts which are through or in Christ given to the world. Thus preserved and

Called.

The gospel was preached; they heard, accepted and obeyed, and were thus called.