1 Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ: 2 Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied.

The writer of this epistle was, almost certainly, a brother of our Lord Jesus; yet with unassumed modesty he calls himself **a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James." As, however, this James was probably the well-known head of the church at Jerusalem and brother of the Lord, Jude does intimate his relation to Jesus and further suggests that his words are worthy of deep respect. He indicates, however, that his human kinship to Christ is less important to him than his spiritual relation, by the first phrase he employs, "a servant of Jesus Christ." The word is literally a "bondserv^ant" or "slave." Possibly there is something of humility in the term, but there is surely much of dignity. The same title was claimed by the great Apostle Paul. It may be assumed properly by every follower of Christ. Each one belongs to him, as purchased by his precious blood, each owes to him submission, each finds his chief joy in his service.

The persons addressed are unnamed and unknown; but the terms in which they are described are so beautiful that all readers may rejoice in believing that such phrases belong to them if only they belong to Christ. They are "called," for they have heard and heeded the gracious summons to salvation given by the Holy Spirit; they are "beloved," but the love is more than human sentiment and is due to their special relation to "God the Father"; they are being "kept," not merely through present trials and temptations, but "for Jesus Christ" whose glorious return they are awaiting. For such favored persons, whose blessings are related to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the unique prayer is offered: "Mercy unto you and peace and love be multiplied." "Mercy" is that favor toward the undeserving shown by the Father. "Peace" denotes a perfect relation toward God and our fellow men. "Love" is the deepest and most blessed experience of the human soul. It is encouraging to believe that such graces are certain to be increased for all who are loyal to the living Christ.