Jeremiah 11:3

You must tell them that this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Cursed is the man who does not obey the words of this covenant,

Study Bible

You are to say to them
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew root for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used in the context of divine communication. This highlights the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's instructions. Historically, prophets were seen as intermediaries between God and His people, tasked with delivering messages that were often challenging or corrective.

This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says
The phrase establishes the authority of the message. "LORD" is translated from "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, underscoring His covenant relationship with Israel. "The God of Israel" reinforces this covenant identity, reminding the people of their unique relationship with God. This historical context is crucial, as it recalls the covenant made at Sinai, where Israel agreed to follow God's laws.

‘Cursed is the man
The word "cursed" comes from the Hebrew "אָרוּר" (arur), which implies being under divine judgment or disfavor. In the ancient Near Eastern context, blessings and curses were understood as powerful declarations that could shape one's destiny. This phrase serves as a stark warning, emphasizing the serious consequences of disobedience to God's covenant.

who does not obey
The Hebrew root for "obey" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to hear, listen, or give heed. In the biblical context, obedience is not just about hearing words but acting upon them. This reflects the biblical principle that true faith is demonstrated through actions. The historical context of Israel's repeated disobedience highlights the importance of this call to obedience.

the words of this covenant
The term "covenant" is translated from "בְּרִית" (berit), a binding agreement between two parties. In the Bible, covenants are central to God's relationship with humanity, particularly with Israel. The "words of this covenant" refer to the laws and commandments given by God, which were meant to guide Israel in righteousness and justice. This phrase reminds the reader of the Sinai covenant, where Israel pledged to follow God's laws in exchange for His protection and blessing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his prophecies of warning and judgment, as well as messages of hope and restoration.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is both just and merciful. He is the one who establishes covenants with His people and expects obedience to His commands.

3. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's message, who were in a covenant relationship with God but often fell into idolatry and disobedience.

4. The Covenant
Refers to the Mosaic Covenant given at Mount Sinai, which includes the laws and commandments that the Israelites were to follow as part of their relationship with God.

5. Curses and Blessings
The concept of blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the covenant.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Covenant Obligations
God's covenants are not mere agreements but solemn commitments that require full obedience. Understanding the gravity of these obligations helps us appreciate the seriousness of our relationship with God.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience to God's commands leads to curses, which are not just punitive but serve as a call to repentance and restoration. Recognizing the consequences of disobedience can lead us to a deeper commitment to follow God's ways.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets like Jeremiah are God's messengers who remind His people of their covenant responsibilities. They serve as a voice of warning and hope, urging us to return to God.

The Faithfulness of God
Despite human unfaithfulness, God remains faithful to His covenant promises. This faithfulness is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who provides a way for us to be reconciled to God.

Living Under the New Covenant
As Christians, we are under the New Covenant established by Christ. This covenant calls us to live by the Spirit, fulfilling the law through love and obedience to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Mosaic Covenant enhance our comprehension of Jeremiah 11:3?

2. In what ways do the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 27-28 relate to the message in Jeremiah 11:3?

3. How can we apply the principle of covenant faithfulness in our daily walk with God today?

4. What role do prophets play in calling God's people back to obedience, and how can we heed similar calls in our lives?

5. How does the New Covenant in Christ change our understanding of curses and blessings in the context of obedience and disobedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 27-28
These chapters outline the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the covenantal context of Jeremiah 11:3.

Exodus 19:5-6
Highlights the conditional nature of the covenant, where Israel is called to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation if they obey God's voice.

Galatians 3:10-14
Discusses the curse of the law and how Christ redeems us from it, providing a New Testament perspective on the concept of curses for disobedience.