Jude 11

Introduction Jude 11 says, “Woe to them! For they have gone the way of Cain, and for pay they have rushed headlong into the error of Balaam, and perished in the rebellion of Korah.” The condemnation of Cain, Korah and Balaam is a warning to all who would forsake the right way (Isa. 35:8-10; Hos. 14:9) and turn aside into the pathway of sin (Matt. 7:13-14; 2 Pet. 2:15-16).

Cain In contrast with Abel’s obedient faith (Heb. 11:4), Cain disobeyed God’s instruction (Gen. 4:1-8). Evidencing a spirit of envy, Cain resented and then murdered his brother, thus showing an affinity for Satan (1 John 3:11-12; Jude 11).

Korah Korah and his companions were destroyed because they tried to usurp the rights which God granted to Aaron and his descendents (Num. 16:1-40; Jude 11). In all aspects of life, divine authority and the Biblical pattern must be respected (Matt. 7:21-23; 28:18-20; Col. 3:17; 1 Pet. 4:11).

Balaam Balaam’s claim to the prophetic office was true, but his character was false (2 Pet. 2:15-16; Jude 11). His public proclamations were unerringly accurate (Num. 23:7-10, 18-24; 24:3-9, 15-24), but his private counsel contradicted God’s pattern of morality (Num. 25:1-3; 31:15-16 ; Rev. 2:14-16). Balaam’s covetous and compromising counsel brought death to erring Israelites, and ultimately led to his own destruction (Num. 25:4-9;. 31:7-20; Josh. 13:15-23).

Conclusion Wicked men continually pervert the right ways of the Lord (Matt. 23:13; Acts 13:8-10). However, the righteous walk the way of life (Prov. 6:23; 12:28). Will you heed instruction (Prov. 10:17; 15:24)? Will you hear the voice of the Savior (Ps. 16:7-11; Acts 2:25-42)?