Jeremiah 16:20

Can man make gods for himself? Such are not gods!"

Study Bible

Can man make gods for himself?
This rhetorical question challenges the folly of idolatry. In the ancient Near Eastern context, people often crafted idols from wood, stone, or metal, believing these objects could embody divine power. The question underscores the absurdity of humans creating their own deities, as true divinity cannot be manufactured. This echoes Isaiah 44:9-20, where the prophet mocks the idea of worshipping something made by human hands. The question also highlights the distinction between the Creator and the created, emphasizing that only the one true God is worthy of worship.

Such are not gods!”
This statement affirms the impotence and falseness of idols. Despite being revered by many cultures, these man-made objects lack the power, presence, and attributes of the living God. The declaration aligns with Psalm 115:4-8, which describes idols as having mouths but not speaking, eyes but not seeing. It also points to the first commandment in Exodus 20:3, which prohibits the worship of other gods. Theologically, this phrase reinforces the monotheistic belief central to the faith, asserting that only Yahweh is the true God. This also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of deity (Colossians 2:9), contrasting with the lifelessness of idols.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah was called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned over 40 years, during which he witnessed the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often led astray by idolatry and disobedience to God. Jeremiah's prophecies were primarily directed towards the people of Judah.

3. Idolatry
The practice of worshiping idols or false gods, which was a significant issue in Judah. Jeremiah frequently condemned this practice, as it led the people away from the one true God.

4. Babylonian Exile
A pivotal event in Jewish history where the people of Judah were taken captive by Babylon. This was a consequence of their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

5. False Gods
The idols and deities created by human hands, which were worshiped by the people of Judah despite being powerless and lifeless.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just a historical issue but a present-day challenge. Anything that takes the place of God in our lives can become an idol, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions.

The Unchanging Nature of God
Unlike man-made idols, God is eternal, unchanging, and sovereign. Our worship should be directed towards Him alone, as He is the source of all life and truth.

The Call to Repentance
Jeremiah's message is a call to turn away from false gods and return to the Lord. Repentance involves recognizing our misplaced priorities and realigning our lives with God's will.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The history of Judah serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. Disobedience leads to spiritual and sometimes physical exile, but God always offers a path to restoration.

The Importance of True Worship
True worship is not about rituals or external practices but about a heart fully devoted to God. It involves acknowledging His lordship and living in obedience to His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that can distract us from worshiping the one true God?

2. How does understanding the historical context of Judah's idolatry help us apply Jeremiah 16:20 to our lives today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains focused on God and not on man-made constructs or ideas?

4. How do the consequences faced by Judah serve as a warning for us in our spiritual journey?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to "tear down" an idol in your life. What steps did you take to refocus your worship on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-4
The Ten Commandments explicitly prohibit the making and worshiping of idols, emphasizing the importance of worshiping the one true God.

Isaiah 44:9-20
Isaiah also speaks against the futility of idol-making, highlighting the absurdity of worshiping something crafted by human hands.

Psalm 115:4-8
This passage describes the impotence of idols, contrasting them with the living God who is worthy of worship.

Acts 17:29
Paul, in his sermon at the Areopagus, speaks against the creation of gods from gold, silver, or stone, echoing the message of Jeremiah.