Jude

2

v 9  “the body of Moses”

            This is a tricky one and many have opinions on its meaning.  Firstly, it must be considered as to whether both Michael and Moses are figurative.  The body of Moses, for example, might be interpreted as Jude describing the Jewish church.  If they are not, however, it is thought that this verse describes Satan’s attempts to reveal the burial place of Moses which had been hidden by God (Deuteronomy 34:6) thus attempting to create Moses into an icon or idol of worship.

The reason behind the writing is to show the restraint of Michael whereas the false teachers have no reverence for any authority.  It is easiest to take this passage literally.  In context if refers to these teachers who do not even respect those in the heavenly realms whereas Michael, himself an archangel, recognized the power of Satan and could not command him, but he used the Lord's command to rebuke him. "The Lord rebukes thee."  This is interesting in light of those today who think they can expel devils and evil spirits, for we cannot and only God can so we do well to mind the authority they carry which is not higher of course than God's, but can only be rebuked by His.