Jeremiah 26:13

So now, correct your ways and deeds, and obey the voice of the LORD your God, so that He might relent of the disaster He has pronounced against you.

Study Bible

So now
This phrase serves as a call to immediate action. In the Hebrew text, the word "now" (עַתָּה, 'attah) emphasizes urgency. Jeremiah is addressing the people of Judah with a pressing need for change. Historically, this was a time of impending judgment, and the prophet's message was not to be delayed. The urgency reflects God's desire for His people to turn back to Him before it's too late.

correct your ways and deeds
The Hebrew word for "correct" (הֵיטִיבוּ, heytivu) implies making something right or good. "Ways" (דַּרְכֵיכֶם, darkeichem) and "deeds" (מַעַלְלֵיכֶם, ma'aleichem) refer to the totality of one's conduct and actions. This call to correction is not merely about external behavior but a transformation of heart and mind. Biblically, true repentance involves a change in direction, turning away from sin and towards God.

and obey the voice of the LORD your God
Obedience is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for "obey" (שִׁמְעוּ, shimu) is closely related to "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama), indicating that true hearing involves action. The "voice of the LORD" (קוֹל יְהוָה, qol YHWH) is a recurring theme in Scripture, representing God's revealed will. Historically, the Israelites were reminded of their covenant obligations, and obedience was a sign of their faithfulness.

so that He may relent
The Hebrew word for "relent" (וְיִנָּחֵם, veyinnahem) can also mean to have compassion or to change one's mind. This reflects God's merciful nature. While God is just, He is also compassionate and willing to withhold judgment if His people repent. This is consistent with the biblical theme that God does not delight in the death of the wicked but desires that they turn from their ways and live (Ezekiel 18:23).

of the disaster He has pronounced against you
The "disaster" (רָעָה, ra'ah) refers to the impending judgment due to the people's disobedience. The word "pronounced" (דִּבֶּר, dibber) indicates a formal declaration, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. In the historical context, this was a warning of the Babylonian exile. However, the possibility of God relenting shows His willingness to forgive and restore if the people genuinely repent.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He is known for his perseverance in the face of opposition.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment due to its disobedience and idolatry.

3. The Temple
The central place of worship in Jerusalem, where Jeremiah delivered his message, warning the people of the consequences of their actions.

4. The Priests and Prophets
Religious leaders who opposed Jeremiah's message, often seeking to silence him because his prophecies were unpopular.

5. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's message, who were called to repentance to avoid the disaster that God had pronounced.

Teaching Points

Call to Repentance
Jeremiah 26:13 highlights the necessity of correcting one's ways and deeds. True repentance involves a change of heart and behavior, aligning with God's will.

Obedience to God's Voice
Obedience is a central theme. Listening to and following God's commands is crucial for avoiding the consequences of sin.

God's Mercy and Justice
The verse underscores God's readiness to relent from disaster if His people turn back to Him. It reflects His merciful nature balanced with His justice.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah play a vital role in calling people back to God. Their messages, though often challenging, are meant for the spiritual well-being of the community.

Personal Reflection and Action
Believers are encouraged to examine their own lives, identify areas needing change, and take steps towards obedience and alignment with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific actions or behaviors in your life might God be calling you to correct, based on Jeremiah 26:13?

2. How does the concept of repentance in Jeremiah 26:13 compare to the repentance seen in the account of Nineveh in Jonah 3?

3. In what ways can you ensure that you are listening to and obeying the voice of the LORD in your daily life?

4. How does understanding God's willingness to relent from disaster when we repent affect your view of His character?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt called to deliver a difficult message or truth. How can Jeremiah's example encourage you in such situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse emphasizes the importance of humility, prayer, and turning from wicked ways to receive God's forgiveness and healing.

Jonah 3:10
Illustrates God's willingness to relent from sending disaster when people repent, as seen in the account of Nineveh.

Ezekiel 18:30-32
Echoes the call for repentance and turning from sin to avoid judgment and receive life.