Passage Overview · Free · Jude 1:14–15
The Way of Cain, Balaam, Korah, and the Coming Judgment
Jude now gives another set of three warning examples: Cain, Balaam, and Korah. Each name takes an earlier Bible rebellion and says, in effect, “The same kind of road can be walked again.” Jude then piles up vivid pictures: dangerous reefs or stains at shared meals, shepherds who feed themselves, clouds that give no rain, trees with no fruit, raging waves, and wandering stars headed into darkness.
Where this fits in the Bible: Genesis 4 gives Cain’s story. Numbers 22–24 and 31 explain Balaam. Numbers 16 tells the story of Korah’s rebellion. Ezekiel 34 condemns shepherds who feed themselves instead of caring for the flock, and Isaiah 57 compares the wicked to a restless sea throwing up mire and dirt.