Bible Figure
Jude
one of the brothers/cousins of Jesus according to the New Testament
Jude, or Judas, was one of the brothers of Jesus named in Matthew and Mark and is traditionally identified with the author of the Epistle of Jude, who calls himself a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James. This Jude should be distinguished from Judas Iscariot and from Jude or Thaddaeus among the Twelve unless evidence warrants identification.
Biography
Matthew 13 and Mark 6 list Judas or Jude among Jesus' brothers together with James, Joses or Joseph, and Simon. During Jesus' ministry John says that His brothers did not yet believe in Him, but Acts 1 places Jesus' brothers among the believers praying with the apostles after the resurrection and ascension. The Epistle of Jude introduces its author as 'Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James.' Because James the brother of Jesus became the best-known James in the Jerusalem church, early Christian interpretation commonly identifies the author as another brother of Jesus. The letter itself does not explicitly say 'brother of Jesus,' perhaps reflecting humility in identifying himself primarily as Christ's servant. Jude the brother of Jesus should not be automatically merged with Judas son of James/Thaddaeus, one of the Twelve.
Biblical Significance
Jude contributes to the New Testament witness of Jesus' own family moving into faith after the resurrection. The epistle associated with him strongly urges believers to contend for the faith, resist corrupt teaching, remember apostolic warnings, and persevere in God's love.