Jeremiah 14:10

This is what the LORD says about this people: "Truly they love to wander; they have not restrained their feet. So the LORD does not accept them; He will now remember their guilt and call their sins to account."

Study Bible

This is what the LORD says about this people
This phrase introduces a divine pronouncement, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew term for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, which underscores His eternal and unchanging nature. The phrase "this people" refers specifically to the Israelites, highlighting their unique relationship with God as His chosen people. Historically, this relationship was marked by a covenant that required obedience and faithfulness, which they repeatedly violated.

They greatly love to wander
The Hebrew root for "wander" is "nûa," which conveys a sense of restlessness and aimlessness. This phrase paints a picture of the Israelites' spiritual infidelity, as they continually strayed from God's commandments and pursued idolatry. The use of "greatly love" indicates a deep-seated inclination towards rebellion, suggesting that their wandering was not merely accidental but a deliberate choice. This reflects the human tendency to seek fulfillment outside of God's will, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

They do not restrain their feet
The imagery of "restraining feet" suggests self-control and discipline, which the Israelites lacked. In the ancient Near Eastern context, feet often symbolized one's path or way of life. The failure to restrain their feet implies a willful neglect of God's guidance and a preference for their own desires. This phrase serves as a metaphor for moral and spiritual laxity, highlighting the importance of self-discipline in maintaining a faithful walk with God.

So the LORD does not accept them
The Hebrew word for "accept" is "rāṣâ," meaning to be pleased with or to find favor in. This indicates a broken relationship between God and His people due to their persistent disobedience. In the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, acceptance by God was contingent upon the sincerity and obedience of the worshiper. Here, the lack of acceptance signifies divine disapproval and the withdrawal of God's favor, a serious consequence for a covenant people.

He will now remember their iniquity
The term "remember" in Hebrew is "zākar," which, in this context, implies bringing to mind for the purpose of action. While God is omniscient and does not forget, this phrase indicates a shift from patience to judgment. "Iniquity" refers to moral perversity and sin, highlighting the gravity of their offenses. Theologically, this serves as a warning that persistent sin will eventually lead to divine retribution, as God's justice demands accountability.

And punish their sins
The Hebrew word for "punish" is "pāqad," which can mean to visit or attend to, often with the implication of judgment. This phrase underscores the certainty of divine justice. In the biblical narrative, God's punishment is not merely punitive but also corrective, intended to bring about repentance and restoration. The mention of "sins" reiterates the specific transgressions that have provoked God's response, emphasizing the need for repentance and the seriousness of sin in the eyes of a holy God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah.

2. Jeremiah
The prophet chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah.

3. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's prophecy, who are being rebuked for their unfaithfulness and idolatry.

4. Wandering
A metaphor for the spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry of the people.

5. Iniquity and Punishment
The consequences of the people's persistent sin and rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Spiritual Wandering
Just as the people of Judah loved to wander, Christians today must guard against spiritual drift and unfaithfulness.

The Importance of Restraint
The lack of restraint in the people's actions led to their downfall. Believers are called to exercise self-control and discipline in their walk with God.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and will remember iniquity, His desire is for repentance and restoration. Understanding both aspects of God's character is crucial.

The Consequences of Sin
Persistent sin leads to separation from God and eventual judgment. This serves as a warning to live a life of holiness and obedience.

The Call to Repentance
The passage underscores the need for genuine repentance and turning back to God to avoid the consequences of sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the metaphor of "wandering" reveal about the spiritual state of the people of Judah, and how can we apply this understanding to our own spiritual lives?

2. How does the concept of God "not accepting" the people challenge our understanding of His grace and justice?

3. In what ways can we practice restraint in our daily lives to prevent spiritual wandering?

4. How do the consequences described in Jeremiah 14:10 compare to the warnings found in the New Testament, such as in Romans 1:28?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living a life of repentance and obedience, avoiding the pitfalls of the people of Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 1:4
This verse also speaks of a rebellious nation, laden with iniquity, similar to the description in Jeremiah 14:10.

Hosea 11:7
Highlights the people's tendency to turn away from God, paralleling the "wandering" mentioned in Jeremiah.

Psalm 81:12
God giving people over to their stubborn hearts, similar to the consequences described in Jeremiah 14:10.

Romans 1:28
Discusses God giving people over to a depraved mind, reflecting the idea of God not accepting those who persist in sin.

Hebrews 3:10
Speaks of a people who go astray in their hearts, echoing the theme of wandering.