New Testament
Jude 1:11
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Woe to them! For they have followed the way of Cain, rushed greedily into Balaam's error for profit, and perished in Korah's rebellion.
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Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
What Jude 1:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jude 1:11, the author warns against certain individuals who have strayed from the truth of the Gospel. They are compared to Cain, who committed the first murder out of jealousy, indicating that these people act out of selfish motives. The reference to Balaam highlights those who pursue profit at the expense of righteousness, showing a willingness to compromise their values for material gain. Lastly, the mention of Korah's rebellion serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God's authority. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed, rebellion, and the pursuit of personal gain over faithfulness to God.
How to apply Jude 1:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our motives and actions. Are we pursuing our desires at the expense of our faith? It reminds us to stay true to God's teachings and to be wary of influences that lead us away from righteousness. We should strive to act with integrity and prioritize our relationship with God over material gain.
Curated for this public verse page. Jude Summary
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Keep studying Jude 1:11
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Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Jude
- Author
- Jude, the brother of James
- Written
- Around AD 65-80
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians facing false teachers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jude 1:11 mean?
Jude 1:11 warns against individuals who stray from the truth, comparing them to Cain, Balaam, and Korah. It highlights the dangers of selfish motives, greed for profit, and rebellion against God's authority.
What is the way of Cain in Jude 1:11?
The way of Cain refers to acting out of jealousy and selfishness, as Cain did when he murdered his brother Abel. This illustrates how some people can let negative emotions lead them away from righteousness.
What is Balaam's error mentioned in Jude 1:11?
Balaam's error refers to his willingness to compromise his values for financial gain. This serves as a warning against prioritizing material rewards over moral integrity.
Who is Korah in Jude 1:11?
Korah was a figure in the Old Testament who led a rebellion against Moses and faced severe consequences for opposing God's chosen authority. His mention serves as a reminder of the dangers of rebellion.
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