PLEADING WITH FAITHLESS CHILDREN

Jer_3:11-25; Jer_4:1-2



The people of the northern kingdom, to whom this appeal is especially addressed, were more excusable than Judah, because their privileges had been less. God judges us according to our opportunities. How precious the invitation and promise of Jer_3:12! Confession is an essential condition that must be fulfilled by us. See 1Jn_1:7. Zion shall yet be the center of a restored Israel, Jer_3:14; Jer_3:18. In Jer_3:21-25 the voices of the people in confession and prayer mingle with Jehovah’s encouraging their return. When we lie down in broken-hearted shame and penitence, we are very near to being lifted to the bosom of God. Compare Jer_3:25 with Jer_4:1. The return of the Chosen People to the God of their fathers will be the cause of revival and quickening throughout the earth. Compare Jer_4:2 with Rom_11:12.