Jeremiah 10
-Chapter 10 is a satire by the
prophet Jeremiah using the Word he is given from the LORD to denounce and
refute idolatry as stupidity and foolishness (Jeremiah 10:8, 14, 21). The
nation of Israel (God’s chosen people) were warned not to learn and follow the
ways of the unbelieving nations who are deluded by false religions and
practices that take them from the true knowledge of the Living, True, and
Everlasting God (Jeremiah 10:2-5, 10). The LORD is the One who is incomparable
and great. He is the only One to be feared out of reverence and glory (Jeremiah
10:6-7). All else is a shame and mockery of the only real way, and they will
perish (Jeremiah 10:15). This is the primary point of the chapter.
-God’s creative power is extolled
in verses 11-16. His power made the earth, established the world in wisdom,
stretched out the heavens, caused the tumults of waters both in sky and on
earth, and produce the wind. In other words, He and only He is the breath of
life (Jeremiah 10:14). *Application* Our God is alive and all others will be
destroyed by His awesome power in the final analysis. It is best for us to
gravitate to that fact and follow Him with all our heart. In this world there
is a pull towards the temporary satisfactions and pleasures of false gods, but
“don’t be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, the he will
also reap (Galatians 6:7).” Keep the faith and know that He is true and will
endure after all else perishes.
-The siege is discussed some more
as the chapter proceeds toward completion beginning in verse 17. God’s purpose
in punishment is seen in verse 18. He will cause them distress so that they can
be found. In other words, God is attempting to draw them back into proper
relationship with Him so that they will know the way, the truth, and the life (John
14:6). The despair is great in verses 19-22 as the prophet understands the
severity of God indignation and cries out against wayward shepherds who have
become stupid and have not sought the LORD as to lead His people in the
righteous way. Therefore, their flock is scattered. *Application* This is a
convicting passage for all who are in spiritual leadership. For us, it may
apply to our home, our community, or our ministry in the house of God. Let this
be a warning that God takes our responsibilities seriously and will hold us all
accountable as to whether we gather or scatter our own flock. Seek the LORD and
prosper (Jeremiah 10:21)!
-God’s sovereign direction is
dealt with as the chapter ends. “…A man’s way in not in himself, nor is it in a
man who walks to direct his steps (Jeremiah 10:23).” The prophet begs for
justice with a strong dose of mercy in God’s correction, else he and his people
will be brought to nothing. He pleads for God to remember His people by calling
for the destruction of those nations who don’t know the LORD at all (Jeremiah
10:24-25). This is God’s prerogative, but the prophet knows the responsiveness
of the Sovereign in all cases. *Application* Man’s paths are directed
ultimately by the LORD (Proverbs 16:9). Our yieldedness is what He desires and
expects more than anything else. We can rebel against His ways, but it will be
to our own demise. God knows the end from the beginning, so comply with all
your heart. Let Him guide your life willingly (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Verses to Memorize: Jeremiah 10:6, 10
No comments:
Post a Comment