Jeremiah 11:2

"Listen to the words of this covenant and tell them to the men of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem.

Study Bible

Listen to the words of this covenant
This phrase emphasizes the importance of hearing and understanding God's covenant. In the biblical context, a covenant is a solemn agreement between God and His people, often involving promises and obligations. The covenant referred to here likely alludes to the Mosaic Covenant, which includes the laws and commandments given to Israel at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-24). Listening implies obedience and a heart inclined towards God's will, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature (Deuteronomy 6:4-5).

and tell them to the men of Judah
Jeremiah's audience is specifically the people of Judah, the southern kingdom of Israel. Historically, Judah was the remaining kingdom after the division of Israel following Solomon's reign. The men of Judah are called to remember and adhere to the covenant, as they are the descendants of those who originally received it. This call to remembrance is crucial, as Judah is facing impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry (2 Kings 22-23).

and the residents of Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah, holds significant religious and political importance. It is the location of the Temple, the center of Jewish worship and the symbol of God's presence among His people. The residents of Jerusalem are particularly accountable, as they live in the heart of the nation's spiritual life. The call to the residents underscores the urgency of returning to covenant faithfulness, as Jerusalem would soon face destruction due to the people's persistent sin (Jeremiah 25:8-11).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his perseverance in the face of opposition and his deep emotional connection to his prophetic mission.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was the primary audience of Jeremiah's prophecies, often called to repentance due to their idolatry and disobedience.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the spiritual and political center of the Jewish people. It was the location of the Temple, where the covenant was to be upheld.

4. The Covenant
Refers to the Mosaic Covenant, which includes the laws and commandments given by God to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. It is a central theme in Jeremiah's message, emphasizing the need for obedience and faithfulness.

5. The Men of Judah and Residents of Jerusalem
The intended recipients of Jeremiah's message, representing the broader community of God's people who were called to listen and adhere to the covenant.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Listening
The Hebrew word for "listen" (shama) implies not just hearing but obeying. As believers, we are called to actively listen to God's Word and respond with obedience.

Covenant Faithfulness
The covenant is a binding agreement between God and His people. Our faithfulness to God's commands reflects our commitment to this relationship.

Community Responsibility
The message was directed to the entire community, highlighting the collective responsibility to uphold God's laws. As Christians, we are part of a community that supports and holds each other accountable.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jeremiah's message often included warnings of judgment for breaking the covenant. Understanding the seriousness of disobedience should motivate us to live righteously.

The Call to Repentance
Jeremiah's prophecies frequently called for repentance. This is a reminder of the ongoing need for self-examination and turning back to God when we stray.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "listening" in Jeremiah 11:2 challenge our current approach to reading and applying Scripture in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, support each other in maintaining covenant faithfulness?

3. How does understanding the historical context of the Mosaic Covenant enhance our appreciation of the new covenant in Christ?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are not just hearers of the Word, but doers as well?

5. How can the warnings and calls to repentance in Jeremiah's message be applied to modern-day situations where we might be tempted to stray from God's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 29
This chapter outlines the renewal of the covenant, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's laws. It provides a backdrop for understanding the covenantal context in Jeremiah 11:2.

Exodus 19-24
These chapters describe the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant, which is the foundation of the covenantal relationship referenced in Jeremiah 11:2.

Hebrews 8
This New Testament passage discusses the new covenant established through Jesus Christ, offering a contrast and fulfillment to the old covenant mentioned in Jeremiah.