John Calvin Commentary Jude 1:23

"and some save, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." — Jude 1:23 (ASV)

Hating even the garment. This passage, which might otherwise seem obscure, will present no difficulty once the metaphor is correctly explained.

He wants the faithful not only to be wary of contact with vices but also, to prevent any contagion from reaching them, he reminds them that everything that borders on vices and is near to them should be avoided. For instance, when we speak of lasciviousness, we say that all incitements to lusts should be removed.

The passage will also become clearer when its full sense is grasped: namely, that we should hate not only the flesh but also the garment, which is infected by contact with it. The word 'even' (translating the Greek particle 'kai') serves to give greater emphasis.

He, then, does not allow evil to be cherished through indulgence, so he commands that all preparations and, as they say, all accessories be cut off.