Jeremiah 35:17

Therefore this is what the LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Behold, I will bring to Judah and to all the residents of Jerusalem all the disaster I have pronounced against them, because I have spoken to them but they have not obeyed, and I have called to them but they have not answered.'"

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God. The title "LORD God of Hosts" underscores His command over heavenly armies, indicating His power and ability to execute judgment. The reference to "the God of Israel" highlights His covenant relationship with the nation, reminding them of their unique status and responsibilities. This introduction sets the stage for a divine pronouncement, reinforcing that the message comes directly from God, not merely from the prophet Jeremiah.

‘Behold, I will bring to Judah and to all the residents of Jerusalem all the disaster I have pronounced against them:
This statement refers to the impending judgment on Judah and Jerusalem due to their persistent disobedience. Historically, this disaster is linked to the Babylonian invasion and subsequent exile, a fulfillment of earlier prophetic warnings. The use of "behold" serves as a call to attention, emphasizing the certainty and imminence of the coming judgment. The specificity of "Judah and all the residents of Jerusalem" indicates that the entire nation, including its capital, is subject to this divine retribution.

because I have spoken to them but they have not obeyed,
This phrase highlights the root cause of the disaster: the people's refusal to heed God's words. Throughout the book of Jeremiah, God repeatedly calls His people to repentance, yet they consistently ignore His commands. This disobedience is not just a failure to listen but a willful rejection of God's authority and covenant. The historical context shows a pattern of idolatry and social injustice, which are key reasons for the judgment.

and I have called to them but they have not answered.’”
Here, the imagery of calling and not receiving an answer illustrates the broken relationship between God and His people. Despite God's persistent outreach through prophets like Jeremiah, the people remain unresponsive. This reflects a hardened heart and spiritual deafness, themes prevalent in the prophetic literature. The call to repentance is a recurring motif in the Bible, and the lack of response signifies a rejection of God's grace and mercy. This phrase also echoes the broader biblical narrative of God seeking a relationship with humanity, which is ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who calls all to repentance and faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD, the God of Hosts, the God of Israel
This title emphasizes God's sovereignty, authority, and covenant relationship with Israel. It underscores His power and His right to judge His people.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was the primary audience of Jeremiah's prophecies.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the spiritual and political center of the Jewish people. It was often the focal point of prophetic warnings due to its central role in Israel's identity.

4. The Rechabites
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, they are central to the context of Jeremiah 35. Their obedience to their ancestor Jonadab's command is contrasted with Judah's disobedience to God.

5. Jeremiah
The prophet through whom God delivered His messages to Judah. Known as the "weeping prophet," he often conveyed messages of judgment and calls for repentance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Just as the Rechabites obeyed their ancestor, we are called to obey God. Disobedience leads to consequences, as seen in Judah's experience.

God's Patience and Justice
God repeatedly called out to His people, showing His patience. However, His justice requires that unrepentant disobedience be addressed.

Listening to God's Call
The repeated theme of God calling and people not answering serves as a reminder to be attentive and responsive to God's voice in our lives.

Consequences of Ignoring God
Ignoring God's warnings leads to disaster. This serves as a cautionary tale for us to heed God's Word and avoid spiritual complacency.

Covenant Relationship
God's relationship with Israel was based on a covenant, which included both promises and responsibilities. Our relationship with God through Christ also involves commitment and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the Rechabites' obedience challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are listening and responding to God's voice in our daily lives?

3. How does understanding the consequences outlined in Deuteronomy 28 help us grasp the seriousness of Judah's situation in Jeremiah 35:17?

4. What are some modern-day "disasters" that might result from ignoring God's guidance and commands?

5. How can we cultivate a heart that is quick to respond to God's calls, avoiding the pitfalls of spiritual deafness seen in Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences Judah faces in Jeremiah 35:17.

Isaiah 65:12
This verse similarly speaks of God calling out to His people and their refusal to listen, highlighting a recurring theme of disobedience and its consequences.

Proverbs 1:24-31
These verses echo the theme of God calling and people not responding, leading to calamity, reinforcing the principle of reaping what one sows.