Definition: These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds [they are] without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Jude 1:12. It’s a pretty complex and poetic passage, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here’s what it means, broken down piece by piece: Overall Meaning: This verse is warning against people who are primarily focused on material generosity (charity) without also having a genuine love of God and others. It suggests these individuals are living selfishly and are destined for something unpleasant. Let’s dissect it: “These are spots in your feasts of charity…” – This is the first part. Jude is talking about people who appear generous – they give generously, donate a lot, and seem happy to help others. But these acts aren't rooted in a deep, selfless desire to please God or help those in need. It’s like putting on a pretty facade. “…when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear…” – This is the key part of the warning. These people are enjoying their generosity while still being self-centered . They're not genuinely motivated by love or compassion; they’re focused on their own comfort and pleasure. It’s like a party where everyone’s just enjoying themselves, without any real connection to others. “Clouds [they are] without water…” – Clouds symbolize something that is lacking – empty, unfulfilled, or not present. This suggests these people aren't truly giving – they're simply taking and holding onto things without giving them away willingly. “…carried about of winds…” - Just like clouds, this imagery represents things moving erratically and unpredictably. It signifies that their generosity isn’t steady or consistent; it’s a restless, chaotic activity. “Trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit…” – This is a very powerful image. A tree doesn't produce fruit if it doesn’t have fruit to begin with. This means these people aren’t producing good things – they aren’t creating positive impact or bringing joy to others. They don't have any genuine goodness in their hearts. “…twice dead, plucked up by the roots…” – This is the most dramatic image. “Plucked up by the roots” means these people are being punished, brought to an end, and ultimately removed from the things they’ve been doing. It suggests that their selfish behavior will have consequences - a spiritual death or separation from God’s grace. In essence, the verse is saying that genuine generosity isn't just about giving material things; it’s about giving your time, your love, and your spirit to others. It warns against people who are focused solely on personal gain without regard for others or God. Why is this a warning? The Bible often uses imagery like this to warn us about the dangers of pride, selfishness, and focusing on things that don’t truly matter. It's a call to a deeper, more meaningful way of living – one centered on love, service, and God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept? Give examples of how to identify someone who might be exhibiting these characteristics?