Jeremiah 14:21

For the sake of Your name do not despise us; do not disgrace Your glorious throne. Remember Your covenant with us; do not break it.

Study Bible

For the sake of Your name do not despise us;
This phrase emphasizes the importance of God's reputation and character. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a deity's name was closely tied to their honor and power. The Israelites appeal to God's name, which represents His holiness, faithfulness, and mercy. This plea is rooted in the understanding that God's actions reflect on His character, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 25:11 and Ezekiel 20:9, where God's name is invoked for mercy and deliverance. The Israelites are asking God to act in a way that upholds His reputation among the nations.

do not disgrace Your glorious throne.
The "glorious throne" refers to God's sovereign rule and His presence among His people, symbolized by the temple in Jerusalem. In the historical context, the temple was the center of worship and a symbol of God's covenant with Israel. The plea not to disgrace His throne is a request for God to maintain His presence and favor with Israel, despite their unfaithfulness. This reflects the understanding that God's throne is not just a seat of power but a place of divine justice and mercy, as seen in Psalm 89:14.

Remember Your covenant with us;
The covenant mentioned here is likely the Mosaic Covenant, which established Israel as God's chosen people with specific laws and promises. This plea is a reminder of the binding agreement between God and Israel, where God promised to be their God and they His people (Exodus 19:5-6). The Israelites are appealing to God's faithfulness to His promises, a theme echoed in other scriptures like Deuteronomy 7:9 and 2 Chronicles 6:14. The covenant is central to Israel's identity and relationship with God.

do not break it.
This phrase underscores the seriousness of the covenant relationship. While God is always faithful, the Israelites express their fear of divine abandonment due to their own unfaithfulness. Historically, Israel's repeated disobedience led to consequences, including exile. However, the plea here is for God to remain steadfast, highlighting the tension between divine justice and mercy. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's enduring faithfulness despite human failure, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23 and Romans 11:29.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing severe drought and impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness to God.

3. God's Glorious Throne
Represents God's sovereign rule and His presence among His people, often associated with the temple in Jerusalem.

4. Covenant
Refers to the solemn agreement between God and Israel, where God promised to be their God and they promised to be His people.

5. Drought
A significant event during Jeremiah's time, symbolizing God's judgment and the people's need for repentance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of God's Name
God's name represents His character and reputation. Our prayers and actions should reflect a desire to honor His name.

The Significance of the Covenant
God's covenant with His people is a foundation of His relationship with them. Understanding this helps us grasp the depth of His commitment and faithfulness.

Intercession and Repentance
Like Jeremiah, we are called to intercede for others and seek God's mercy, recognizing our need for repentance and His grace.

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
Despite circumstances, God remains sovereign and faithful. Trusting in His promises provides hope and assurance.

The Role of Suffering
Suffering can be a call to return to God, prompting reflection on our spiritual state and dependence on Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's appeal to God's name and covenant in Jeremiah 14:21 reflect the nature of intercessory prayer?

2. In what ways can we honor God's name in our daily lives, and how does this relate to the teachings of Jeremiah 14:21?

3. How does the concept of covenant in Jeremiah 14:21 connect to the new covenant established through Jesus Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn from the drought in Judah about the consequences of turning away from God, and how can we apply these lessons today?

5. How can we incorporate the themes of repentance and intercession from Jeremiah 14:21 into our personal and communal prayer life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
Moses intercedes for Israel, appealing to God's name and His covenant, similar to Jeremiah's plea.

Psalm 106
Reflects on God's faithfulness to His covenant despite Israel's repeated failures.

2 Chronicles 7:14
God's promise to heal the land if His people humble themselves, pray, and turn from their wicked ways.

Isaiah 48:9-11
God acts for the sake of His name, emphasizing His commitment to His glory and His people.

Hebrews 8
Discusses the new covenant established through Christ, fulfilling and surpassing the old covenant promises.