Ingratitude is a recurring theme in the Bible, often depicted as a failure to recognize and appreciate the blessings and guidance provided by God. One of the most poignant examples of ingratitude is found in the life and ministry of the prophet Jeremiah, who faced relentless opposition and hostility from those he was called to serve.

Jeremiah's Calling and Mission

Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was called by God to deliver messages of warning and repentance to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, during a time when Judah was facing imminent judgment due to its persistent idolatry and disobedience. Despite the clarity and urgency of his message, Jeremiah encountered significant resistance and ingratitude from the very people he sought to save.

Opposition from the People

The people of Judah, instead of heeding Jeremiah's warnings, often responded with hostility and rejection. In Jeremiah 18:18 , the people conspired against him, saying, "Come, let us make plans against Jeremiah, for the law will never be lost to the priest, nor counsel to the wise, nor a word to the prophet. Come, let us denounce him and pay no heed to any of his words." This verse highlights the people's ingratitude and their determination to silence the prophet, despite his role as God's messenger.

Persecution by Leaders

Jeremiah also faced persecution from the leaders of Judah, who were unwilling to accept his prophecies of impending doom. In Jeremiah 20:1-2 , Pashhur, the priest and chief officer in the house of the LORD, struck Jeremiah and put him in the stocks. This act of violence and humiliation exemplifies the ingratitude of the religious leaders, who should have been the first to recognize and support Jeremiah's divine mission.

Betrayal by Friends and Family

Even those closest to Jeremiah turned against him. In Jeremiah 12:6 , the prophet laments, "For even your brothers—your own father’s household—even they have betrayed you; even they have cried aloud against you. Do not trust them, though they speak well of you." This personal betrayal underscores the depth of ingratitude Jeremiah experienced, as his own family and friends failed to stand by him in his God-given task.

The Plot Against Jeremiah

One of the most severe instances of ingratitude is found in the plot to kill Jeremiah. In Jeremiah 11:18-19 , the prophet recounts, "Because the LORD revealed their plot to me, I knew it, for at that time He showed me what they were doing. I had been like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter. I did not realize that they had plotted against me, saying, 'Let us destroy the tree with its fruit; let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be remembered no more.'" This conspiracy against Jeremiah, despite his innocence and dedication, highlights the extreme ingratitude of those who sought to eliminate him.

Jeremiah's Response

Despite the ingratitude and persecution he faced, Jeremiah remained steadfast in his mission. He continued to deliver God's messages, often at great personal cost. His perseverance serves as a testament to his faithfulness and dedication to God's calling, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Jeremiah's experiences with ingratitude from his enemies provide a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by those who faithfully serve God. His account encourages believers to remain committed to their divine calling, regardless of the ingratitude or hostility they may encounter.Jeremiah 18:20
Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have dig a pit for my soul. Remember that I stood before you to speak good for them, and to turn away your wrath from them.
Nave's Topical Index

Heavenly Contemplation Exemplified, and the Whole Work Concluded.
... bestow so many millions of wonders upon his enemies? ... it the joy and rejoicing of
Jeremiah's heart; how ... rest accuse thee of most detestable ingratitude and folly ...
/.../the saints everlasting rest/chapter xvi heavenly contemplation exemplified.htm

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