I have been going through Jude’s tiny epistle. He’s giving us the characteristics of false teachers and preachers. Now he goes on to a new description.
…they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error…
Jude 11b NIV
To understand this one, we need to know about Balaam, from the Old Testament. His story is found in the book of Numbers, chapters 22-24. You can read that section to get all the details.
Basically, this event took place while Israel was wandering in the wilderness on their way to the promised land. As they were going through Moab territory, the king of Moab got worried.
The king summoned a local, pagan, enchanter named Balaam. He was told that the king would reward him handsomely if he cursed Israel. This was to be done so that Moab could defeat Israel in battle.
God then got Balaam’s attention, and He warned him do only what he heard from the Lord. Balaam must have been planning on ignoring this warning because God used a talking donkey to reiterate this.
He then tried three times to bribe God with sacrifices. He wanted God to curse Israel or parts of Israel. Each time, God made it clear that He would only bless them. Finally, unable to curse Israel, Balaam went back to his home.
Jude uses this event in Israel’s history to reveal a motivating factor in false teachers. He’s saying that these charlatans are in it for the financial gain they receive.
Many times, this is evident on TV and online. Of course, not every famous preacher is looking for financial gain. Most are truly bringing God’s Word to their hearers.
However, there are a few who are greed driven. I am convinced of one thing when I view their show. The only reason they study the Bible is to find Scriptures that will convince you to take money from your pocket and put it in theirs.
Paul dealt with that issue as well.
Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.
2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV
We have to be careful where we sow our seed (financially). If their entire message revolves around sending them an offering, something’s wrong.
When a godly teacher stands before the people of the Lord, it’s not about what they want to hear. His or her message must be the result of time spent with the Holy Spirit. What does the Lord want the people to hear.
I can’t teach something because I know it will get everybody excited. Then, I’ll get a bigger offering. That’s not how it works in the Spirit. I preach what the Lord dictates and He provides for my needs.
Paul sums it up well. He speaks of these false teachers as…
…men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1 Timothy 6:5-7 NIV
This is why we have to be careful who we support with our finances. That support will cause us to share in their blessings or their God-given discipline.
Question: What experience have you had with ministry for financial gain? If you leave a comment, DO NOT name names.
© 2026 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 