Jeremiah 34:11

but later they changed their minds and took back the menservants and maidservants they had freed, and they forced them to become slaves again.

Study Bible

but later they changed their minds
This phrase highlights the fickle nature of human promises and the tendency to revert to old ways. In the context of Jeremiah 34, the people of Judah initially obeyed God's command to release their Hebrew slaves, as outlined in the Mosaic Law (Exodus 21:2-6; Deuteronomy 15:12-18). However, their change of heart reflects a deeper spiritual issue of disobedience and rebellion against God's covenant. This mirrors the broader theme in Jeremiah of Judah's unfaithfulness and the consequences of breaking covenant promises.

and took back the menservants and maidservants they had freed
The act of taking back the freed servants is a direct violation of the covenant made before God. In ancient Israel, the release of Hebrew slaves was not only a legal obligation but also a moral and spiritual one, symbolizing liberation and justice. This reversal of action demonstrates a lack of integrity and respect for God's laws. It also reflects the social and economic pressures of the time, where the loss of labor could have been seen as a significant economic disadvantage, prompting the people to reclaim their servants.

and they forced them to become slaves again
This phrase underscores the severity of the people's actions, as they not only reneged on their promise but actively oppressed those they had set free. This act of re-enslavement is a grave injustice and is condemned by God through the prophet Jeremiah. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and mercy, themes that are prevalent throughout the Bible (Micah 6:8; Isaiah 1:17). Theologically, this can be seen as a type of the bondage of sin, from which Christ frees believers (John 8:34-36; Romans 6:17-18). The failure of the people to uphold their covenant reflects humanity's need for a Savior who can truly liberate from the bondage of sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of Jeremiah. He initially agreed to free the Hebrew slaves but later allowed them to be re-enslaved.

3. The People of Judah
The inhabitants of the southern kingdom, who were under threat from Babylon and had made a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves.

4. Babylonian Threat
The external pressure from the Babylonian empire, which was a significant factor in the decisions made by the leaders of Judah.

5. Covenant of Freedom
An agreement made by the people of Judah to release their Hebrew slaves, which they later broke by re-enslaving them.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Keeping Covenants
God takes covenants seriously, and breaking them has consequences. We must honor our commitments, especially those made before God.

The Danger of Backsliding
The people of Judah initially did the right thing but later reverted to their old ways. We must guard against returning to sinful behaviors after making positive changes.

God's Heart for Justice and Mercy
God's laws regarding slavery were designed to promote justice and mercy. We should reflect God's character by advocating for the oppressed and treating others with fairness.

The Influence of External Pressures
The threat from Babylon influenced Judah's leaders to make and then break their covenant. We must be cautious not to let external pressures lead us away from God's commands.

Repentance and Restoration
Even when we fail, God offers a path to repentance and restoration. We should seek His forgiveness and strive to align our actions with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the breaking of the covenant in Jeremiah 34:11 reveal about the spiritual state of Judah at that time?

2. How do the laws in Exodus 21 and Deuteronomy 15 regarding Hebrew slaves reflect God's character and His desires for His people?

3. In what ways can external pressures lead us to compromise our commitments to God, and how can we guard against this?

4. How can we apply the principles of justice and mercy in our daily interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you made a commitment to God or others. How did you ensure that you remained faithful to that commitment, and what challenges did you face?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-6
This passage outlines the laws regarding Hebrew slaves, emphasizing the importance of releasing them after six years of service. The people of Judah were violating this law by re-enslaving those they had freed.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Reinforces the command to release Hebrew slaves in the seventh year, highlighting God's desire for justice and mercy.

Isaiah 58:6
Speaks to the true fast that God desires, which includes freeing the oppressed and breaking every yoke, contrasting with the actions of the people in Jeremiah 34:11.