Jeremiah 10:11

Thus you are to tell them: "These gods, who have made neither the heavens nor the earth, will perish from this earth and from under these heavens."

Study Bible

Thus you are to tell them
This phrase serves as a directive from God to the prophet Jeremiah, emphasizing the importance of delivering a specific message. The Hebrew word for "tell" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a command to speak with authority. In the context of ancient Israel, prophets were often the mouthpieces of God, tasked with conveying His messages to the people. This introduction underscores the divine origin and urgency of the message that follows.

The gods that did not make the heavens and the earth
This phrase contrasts the one true God, the Creator, with false gods or idols. The Hebrew word for "gods" (אֱלֹהִים, 'elohim) can refer to both the true God and false deities, depending on the context. Here, it clearly refers to idols, which were prevalent in the surrounding nations and even among some Israelites. The phrase highlights the impotence and nonexistence of these so-called gods, as they lack the creative power attributed to the God of Israel. Historically, this reflects the monotheistic belief of the Israelites in a polytheistic world, where the creation of the universe was a definitive attribute of divinity.

will perish from this earth
The Hebrew root for "perish" (אָבַד, 'abad) conveys the idea of being destroyed or ceasing to exist. This is a prophetic declaration of the ultimate fate of idols and false gods. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the destruction of idols was not only a physical act but also a spiritual and cultural one, signifying the triumph of the true God over false beliefs. This phrase reassures the faithful that the power of God will prevail, and all that is not of Him will ultimately be eradicated.

and from under these heavens
The phrase "under these heavens" emphasizes the totality of God's dominion. The Hebrew word for "heavens" (שָׁמַיִם, shamayim) often refers to the sky or the abode of God. By stating that false gods will perish from under the heavens, the verse underscores the comprehensive scope of God's authority, extending over all creation. This serves as a reminder of the futility of idolatry and the enduring sovereignty of the Creator. In a broader theological context, it points to the eschatological hope that God's kingdom will be fully realized, and all falsehood will be vanquished.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, often warned by prophets like Jeremiah about impending judgment due to idolatry and disobedience.

3. Idols/Gods
Refers to the false gods worshiped by the nations surrounding Israel, which were made by human hands and had no real power.

4. Heavens and Earth
The creation of the one true God, contrasting with the false gods who did not create anything.

5. Babylonian Exile
The context in which Jeremiah prophesied, warning Judah of the consequences of their idolatry, which eventually led to their exile.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idols, being man-made, have no power or life. They cannot create or sustain the universe. Believers are called to worship the Creator, not the creation.

God's Sovereignty
The verse underscores God's sovereignty over all creation. Unlike idols, God is eternal and omnipotent, having created the heavens and the earth.

Cultural Relevance
In a world filled with modern "idols" such as materialism, technology, and self-worship, Christians are reminded to focus on God, who alone is worthy of worship.

Eternal Perspective
The temporary nature of idols contrasts with the eternal nature of God. Believers are encouraged to invest in what is eternal rather than what is fleeting.

Witnessing to Others
Just as Jeremiah was instructed to speak to the people about the futility of idols, Christians are called to share the truth of the gospel and the reality of the one true God with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Jeremiah's message enhance our comprehension of this verse?

2. In what ways do modern "idols" manifest in today's society, and how can Christians guard against them?

3. How does the sovereignty of God, as highlighted in this verse, provide comfort and assurance in your daily life?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your worship is directed solely towards God and not towards any "idols"?

5. How can you effectively communicate the message of the one true God to those who may be following "idols" in their lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 44:9-20
This passage also addresses the futility of idol worship, emphasizing that idols are man-made and powerless.

Psalm 96:5
Highlights the distinction between the one true God and the idols of the nations, affirming that the Lord made the heavens.

Acts 17:24-25
Paul speaks to the Athenians about the true God who made the world, contrasting Him with their idols.

1 Corinthians 8:4-6
Paul discusses the reality that there is only one God, and idols are nothing in the world.