Making a Difference — SUCCESSFULSAVIOR.ORG

QUESTION

I’m reading Jude. Verse 22. Making a difference? How should we do this?

ANSWER

Let’s take in a little of the context of that statement in Jude:

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” (Jude 1:20-23)

The thought that likely comes to mind when we hear “making a difference” is that having compassion on others in their challenges with sin makes a difference in their spiritual development and maturity. I do not deny that this is true but I do not think this is what Jude intends. In this context, “making a difference” (diakrino) means to separate or make a distinction. The “difference” that Jude has in mind is not “the difference in someone’s life that results from the compassion shown.” Rather, it is the difference or distinction that we should make between varying offenses and circumstances. Some are best handled with compassion and encouragement; others require stern rebuke. When an offender is evidently convinced and ashamed of their offense, compassion seems an appropriate avenue for correction. When an offender persists in obstinate rebellion, a severe warning might be in order.

- Elder Daniel Samons