Jude 1:22 Explained
"And of some have compassion, making a difference:" — Jude 1:22 (KJV)
Seven words instructing that people in error be handled differently from one another.
Read it in context: The Book of Jude. Also gathered under verses about doubt.
Jude 1:22 in context
What does Jude 1:22 mean?
'Making a difference' means distinguishing — the Greek is about discriminating between cases, not about having an impact. That is the whole instruction: not one response to everyone in error. The next verse gives the harder handling for a different group. Jude assumes you will have to judge which is which and does not supply a test, which is why the letter ends by commending them to the one able to keep them from falling.
What is the context of Jude 1:22?
Jude is a short, fierce letter about teachers corrupting the church, and most of it is warning. These closing verses turn to how to treat those they have influenced: some are shown compassion, others are pulled out of the fire.
How do I pray Jude 1:22?
Bring one person who has gone wrong and ask which they are — the one to be gently carried or the one to be pulled out urgently. Then ask whether you chose the response that costs you less. Jude expects the distinguishing to be difficult; it is the one thing he does not make easy.
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