Jeremiah 24:7

I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the LORD. They will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with all their heart.

Study Bible

I will give them a heart to know Me
This phrase emphasizes God's initiative in the transformation of the human heart. The Hebrew word for "heart" is "לֵב" (lev), which in biblical terms often refers to the center of human will, emotion, and intellect. In the context of Jeremiah, this transformation is a divine act, signifying a new covenant relationship where God Himself enables His people to truly know Him. This is not merely intellectual knowledge but an intimate, relational understanding. Historically, this promise comes after a period of judgment and exile, offering hope of restoration and renewal.

that I am the LORD
The phrase underscores the covenant name of God, "Yahweh" (יהוה), which is often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles. This name signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. In the historical context of Jeremiah, the recognition of Yahweh as the one true God was crucial for the Israelites, who were surrounded by nations worshiping false gods. This acknowledgment is a return to the foundational truth of Israel's faith, emphasizing God's sovereignty and unique identity.

They will be My people
This phrase reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, echoing the covenantal language found throughout the Old Testament, such as in Exodus 6:7. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), indicating a collective identity bound by a shared relationship with God. This promise reassures the exiled Israelites of their continued identity as God's chosen people, despite their current circumstances. It is a reaffirmation of God's commitment to His covenant, offering hope and belonging.

and I will be their God
This phrase completes the covenant formula, emphasizing mutual belonging and relationship. The Hebrew word for "God" here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a term that conveys power and majesty. In the context of Jeremiah, this promise is a powerful assurance of God's presence and protection. It signifies a restored relationship where God is not only acknowledged as the supreme deity but also as a personal, caring protector and provider for His people.

for they will return to Me with all their heart
The phrase "return to Me" uses the Hebrew verb "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to turn back or repent. This is a call to repentance and a wholehearted return to God. The phrase "with all their heart" emphasizes total commitment and sincerity, indicating a complete and genuine transformation. In the historical context, this return is not just physical, from exile, but spiritual, signifying a renewed dedication to God. It highlights the theme of repentance and restoration that runs throughout the book of Jeremiah, offering hope for a future where God's people are fully devoted to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment and calling them to repentance.

2. The Exiles of Judah
The people of Judah who were taken into Babylonian captivity. This verse speaks to the hope and restoration promised to them.

3. Babylon
The place of exile for the people of Judah, representing both judgment and the setting for eventual restoration.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who desires a relationship with His people and promises to restore them.

5. The Heart
In Hebrew thought, the heart ("lev") is the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. God promises to transform the hearts of His people.

Teaching Points

God's Initiative in Restoration
God takes the first step in restoring His people by giving them a heart to know Him. This emphasizes His grace and sovereignty in the process of redemption.

The Importance of Knowing God
The heart transformation leads to a deeper knowledge of God. This knowledge is relational, not just intellectual, and is central to the covenant relationship.

Covenant Relationship
The promise "They will be My people, and I will be their God" highlights the covenant relationship God desires with His people. This relationship is marked by mutual commitment and love.

Wholehearted Return
The call to return with all their heart signifies genuine repentance and devotion. It challenges believers to examine their own hearts and commitment to God.

Hope in Exile
Even in times of judgment or difficulty, God’s promises offer hope and assurance of restoration. This encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our comprehension of Jeremiah 24:7?

2. In what ways does the promise of a "heart to know Me" challenge our current understanding of our relationship with God?

3. How can we apply the concept of a covenant relationship with God in our daily lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are returning to God with "all our heart"?

5. How do the promises in Jeremiah 24:7 provide hope and encouragement during difficult times in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:6
This verse speaks of God circumcising the hearts of His people, which parallels the promise in Jeremiah 24:7 of giving them a heart to know Him.

Ezekiel 36:26-27
God promises to give His people a new heart and spirit, similar to the transformation described in Jeremiah 24:7.

Hebrews 8:10
The New Covenant promise where God writes His laws on the hearts of His people, echoing the relational aspect of Jeremiah 24:7.