Jeremiah 14:7

Although our iniquities testify against us, O LORD, act for the sake of Your name. Indeed, our rebellions are many; we have sinned against You.

Study Bible

Although our iniquities testify against us
The word "iniquities" in Hebrew is "עֲוֹנוֹתֵינוּ" (avonotenu), which refers to moral perversity or sin. In the context of ancient Israel, iniquities were not just personal failings but communal transgressions that affected the entire nation. The phrase "testify against us" suggests a legal setting where sins are witnesses against the people, highlighting the seriousness of their moral failures. This acknowledgment of sin is crucial in a conservative Christian perspective, emphasizing the need for confession and repentance.

O LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenantal faithfulness. In invoking the LORD, the people of Israel appeal to God's character and His historical acts of deliverance. For conservative Christians, this underscores the importance of relying on God's unchanging nature and His promises.

act for the sake of Your name
The phrase "for the sake of Your name" is a plea for God to intervene based on His reputation and character rather than the merit of the people. In Hebrew culture, a name represented one's character and authority. This appeal is rooted in the understanding that God's actions are ultimately for His glory. Conservative theology often emphasizes that God's primary motivation is His glory, and believers are encouraged to align their prayers with this purpose.

Indeed, our rebellions are many
"Rebellions" in Hebrew is "מְשׁוּבוֹתֵינוּ" (meshuvotenu), indicating a turning away or backsliding. The acknowledgment that these rebellions are "many" reflects a deep awareness of the pervasive nature of sin. Historically, Israel's repeated turning away from God led to national calamities. This serves as a warning and a call to vigilance for Christians today, highlighting the need for continual repentance and faithfulness.

we have sinned against You
The Hebrew word for "sinned" is "חָטָאנוּ" (chatanu), meaning to miss the mark or fall short. This confession is direct and personal, recognizing that sin is ultimately against God. In the biblical narrative, sin disrupts the relationship between God and His people. For conservative Christians, this underscores the gravity of sin and the necessity of seeking God's forgiveness through Jesus Christ, who restores the broken relationship through His atoning sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. He is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over the sins of his people and their consequences.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing severe drought and impending judgment due to its persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is both just and merciful. He is the one to whom Jeremiah and the people of Judah are appealing for mercy despite their sins.

4. Iniquities and Rebellions
These terms refer to the sins and transgressions of the people of Judah. "Iniquities" (Hebrew: 'avonot) implies a moral crookedness or perversion, while "rebellions" (Hebrew: merim) indicates a willful defiance against God's authority.

5. The Name of the LORD
Represents God's character and reputation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a name was more than a label; it signified the essence and authority of a person.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Sin
Recognize that our sins are not just personal failures but testimonies against us that highlight our need for divine intervention.

Appealing to God's Character
When seeking forgiveness, we should appeal to God's character and promises rather than our own worthiness.

The Importance of Repentance
True repentance involves acknowledging the multitude of our sins and turning back to God with a contrite heart.

God's Name and Glory
Understand that God's actions are often for the sake of His name, which underscores His commitment to His own glory and faithfulness.

Intercessory Prayer
Like Jeremiah, we are called to intercede for others, asking God to act mercifully for the sake of His name.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's acknowledgment of Judah's sins in this verse challenge us to confront our own iniquities today?

2. In what ways can we appeal to God's character in our prayers, especially when seeking forgiveness?

3. How does understanding the significance of God's name enhance our appreciation of His mercy and grace?

4. What parallels can you draw between Jeremiah's intercession for Judah and the role of Jesus as our intercessor?

5. How can we incorporate the themes of repentance and God's glory into our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 25:11
This verse also appeals to God's name for forgiveness, highlighting the importance of God's reputation in His acts of mercy.

Isaiah 43:25
God declares that He blots out transgressions for His own sake, emphasizing His sovereign grace and the importance of His name.

Daniel 9:18-19
Daniel's prayer for mercy on behalf of Israel echoes Jeremiah's plea, focusing on God's name and righteousness rather than the people's merit.