Jeremiah 13:20

Lift up your eyes and see those coming from the north. Where is the flock entrusted to you, the sheep that were your pride?

Study Bible

Lift up your eyes
This phrase is a call to attention and awareness. In the Hebrew context, "lifting up one's eyes" often signifies a moment of realization or divine revelation. It is an invitation to look beyond the immediate circumstances and perceive a broader, often spiritual, reality. In this passage, it is a call to the people of Judah to recognize the impending threat and to understand the spiritual implications of their situation. The act of lifting one's eyes is symbolic of seeking God's perspective and wisdom in times of crisis.

and see those coming from the north
Historically, the "north" refers to the direction from which invaders, particularly the Babylonians, would come. The north was often associated with danger and judgment in the prophetic literature. This phrase serves as a warning of the impending invasion and destruction due to the people's unfaithfulness. It is a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the reality of divine judgment. The north, in this context, is not just a geographical direction but a symbol of God's instrument of correction.

Where is the flock that was entrusted to you
The "flock" symbolizes the people of Judah, and the imagery of a shepherd and flock is a common biblical metaphor for leadership and responsibility. The leaders of Judah were entrusted with the care and guidance of God's people, much like a shepherd is responsible for his sheep. This phrase is a poignant question highlighting the failure of the leaders to protect and nurture their people. It underscores the theme of accountability and the serious responsibility of spiritual leadership.

the sheep of your pasture
This phrase emphasizes the relationship between the leaders and the people, as well as the divine provision and care that was intended for them. "Your pasture" suggests a place of safety, sustenance, and belonging, which the leaders were supposed to maintain. The use of "sheep" further illustrates the vulnerability and dependence of the people on their leaders. In a broader spiritual sense, it reflects God's desire for His people to be cared for and led in righteousness. The failure to do so results in the loss and scattering of the flock, a theme that resonates with the consequences of neglecting God's commands and guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings and was marked by themes of repentance and impending judgment.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often warned by prophets like Jeremiah about the consequences of their disobedience to God.

3. The North
Refers to the direction from which invaders, particularly the Babylonians, would come to conquer Judah. This is a common motif in Jeremiah's prophecies, symbolizing impending judgment.

4. The Flock
Symbolizes the people of Judah, whom the leaders were supposed to shepherd and protect. The imagery of a flock is often used in the Bible to describe God's people.

5. The Sheep of Your Pride
This phrase highlights the leaders' failure to care for the people entrusted to them, emphasizing their pride and neglect.

Teaching Points

Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are entrusted with the care of their people. This verse challenges leaders to reflect on their stewardship and accountability before God.

Consequences of Neglect
Ignoring the needs of those entrusted to us can lead to devastating consequences, as seen in the impending invasion from the north.

Spiritual Vigilance
The call to "lift up your eyes" is a reminder to be spiritually vigilant and aware of the signs of the times, recognizing when God is calling us to action.

Pride and Its Pitfalls
Pride can blind us to our responsibilities and lead to neglect. Humility and dependence on God are essential for faithful leadership.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The coming from the north signifies God's control over nations and His use of them to fulfill His purposes, including judgment and correction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a flock and shepherd in Jeremiah 13:20 challenge our understanding of leadership and responsibility in our own lives?

2. In what ways can pride lead to neglect in our personal and spiritual responsibilities, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the concept of spiritual vigilance apply to our daily walk with God, and what practical steps can we take to "lift up our eyes"?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of neglecting a responsibility. How did that experience shape your understanding of accountability before God?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 13:20 to our roles within our families, churches, and communities, ensuring we are faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 34
This chapter also uses the imagery of shepherds and flocks to criticize the leaders of Israel for their failure to care for the people, similar to Jeremiah's message.

John 10
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His care for His flock with the neglectful shepherds of Israel's past.

Isaiah 56:9-12
Critiques the leaders of Israel for being blind and ignorant, failing to protect and guide the people, similar to the imagery in Jeremiah 13:20.