The Epistles of John bring together the theme of love. As John bids his readers to ‘love the brethren’, 3. 14, he demonstrates that love in his dealings with ‘the elect lady and her children’, 2 John 1, and Gaius, 3 John 1.

Whilst John seeks to emphasize the characteristics of those who are genuine believers, Jude describes those who are false. Using lessons from a variety of Old Testament examples, and with some pathos, the strength of Jude’s warnings indicate that the situation of those to whom he wrote is precarious. These believers need to be warned and reminded of truth.

With such themes, this book is timely.