Introduction:
The Epistle of Jude, a brief yet potent letter in the New Testament, opens with a greeting that sets the tone for the urgent message that follows. Jude, the author, identifies himself and addresses his audience with a salutation that is rich in theological significance and pastoral care. This greeting is found in Jude 1:1-2 of the Berean Standard Bible .

Authorship:
Jude introduces himself as "a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James" (Jude 1:1). This identification is crucial as it establishes his authority and connection within the early Christian community. Jude is traditionally understood to be Jude (or Judas), the brother of James, who is likely James the Just, a prominent leader in the Jerusalem church and the half-brother of Jesus. By referring to himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, Jude emphasizes his devotion and submission to Christ, which is a common designation among early Christian leaders.

Recipients:
Jude addresses his letter "to those who are called, loved by God the Father, and kept in Jesus Christ" (Jude 1:1). This description of the recipients highlights three key aspects of their identity:

1. Called: This term signifies the divine initiative in the lives of believers, indicating that they have been summoned by God to belong to Him. It reflects the concept of election and the special relationship between God and His people.

2. Loved by God the Father: Jude reassures his readers of their status as beloved children of God. This affirmation of divine love serves as a foundation for their faith and a source of comfort amidst challenges.

3. Kept in Jesus Christ: The phrase underscores the security and preservation of believers in their relationship with Christ. It suggests that their salvation and spiritual well-being are safeguarded by the power of Jesus.

Blessing:
Jude extends a blessing to his readers, saying, "Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you" (Jude 1:2). This triad of virtues encapsulates the spiritual blessings that Jude desires for his audience:

1. Mercy: This reflects God's compassionate action towards humanity, particularly in the context of forgiveness and salvation. Jude's wish for mercy indicates a desire for his readers to experience God's grace in their lives.

2. Peace: In the biblical sense, peace (shalom) encompasses wholeness, well-being, and harmony with God and others. Jude's blessing of peace suggests a longing for his readers to live in the tranquility that comes from a right relationship with God.

3. Love: The multiplication of love points to the abundant and overflowing nature of God's love, which believers are called to experience and extend to others. Jude's emphasis on love aligns with the central Christian commandment to love God and neighbor.

Contextual Significance:
The greeting from Jude, though brief, is laden with theological depth and pastoral concern. It serves as an introduction to the themes of the letter, which include contending for the faith, recognizing false teachers, and remaining steadfast in the love of God. Jude's salutation not only identifies his audience but also prepares them for the exhortations and warnings that follow, grounding them in their identity as called, loved, and kept by God.