Jude 17–18—“But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; how that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.” 

After exposing the character and certain judgment of false teachers, Jude turns tenderly to believers: “But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 17). The contrast is striking. While apostates forget, reject, and mock divine truth, God’s people must deliberately remember and hold fast to it.

The apostles had already warned that “there should be mockers in the last time” (v. 18). Thus, the appearance of scoffers and ungodly teachers should neither surprise nor unsettle the church. Their coming had been foretold. Scripture prepares believers beforehand so that the fulfilment of such warnings may strengthen rather than weaken their faith (cf. John 16:1–4).

These “mockers” do more than ridicule Christian doctrine. Jude identifies the root of their opposition: they “walk after their own ungodly lusts”. Their rejection of truth springs from hearts determined to pursue sinful desires. When men refuse God’s authority over their lives, they often mock the truth that condemns their conduct. Ungodly doctrine and ungodly living therefore frequently advance together.

Jude’s remedy for the church is not speculation about apostasy, but remembrance of God’s revealed Word. Believers must measure every teaching and practice by the apostolic Scriptures and remain steadfast in what Christ has made known through His appointed messengers.

We likewise live amid ridicule of biblical truth and increasing acceptance of ungodliness. Let us not be intimidated by mockers or drawn into their ways. Remember the Word, believe its warnings, resist worldly lusts, and continue faithfully in obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ.