Jeremiah 26:3

Perhaps they will listen and turn--each from his evil way of life--so that I may relent of the disaster I am planning to bring upon them because of the evil of their deeds.

Study Bible

Perhaps they will listen
The word "perhaps" indicates a possibility, a hope that the people might heed the warning. In Hebrew, this is "אֻלַּי" (ʾullay), suggesting a divine longing for repentance rather than a certainty. It reflects God's merciful nature, always desiring that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). The act of listening in the biblical sense goes beyond mere hearing; it implies obedience and a change of heart.

and turn
The Hebrew word for "turn" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which means to return or repent. This is a central theme in the prophetic literature, emphasizing a complete transformation of life and priorities. Repentance is not just feeling sorry but involves a decisive change in direction, turning away from sin and towards God. This call to repentance is a consistent message throughout the Bible, highlighting God's desire for restoration and reconciliation with His people.

each from his evil way of life
The phrase "each from his evil way of life" underscores personal responsibility. The Hebrew term for "evil" is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which denotes something harmful or wicked. The emphasis on "each" indicates that repentance is an individual act, requiring personal acknowledgment of one's sins. The "way of life" refers to habitual conduct, suggesting that sin is not just an isolated act but a pattern that needs to be broken.

so that I may relent
The word "relent" in Hebrew is "נָחַם" (nacham), which can mean to be sorry, to console oneself, or to change one's mind. This does not imply that God is capricious but rather that He is responsive to human actions. God's relenting is contingent upon human repentance, demonstrating His justice and mercy. It shows that divine judgment is not inevitable but can be averted through genuine repentance.

of the disaster I am planning to bring upon them
The "disaster" refers to the consequences of sin, often depicted as divine judgment. The Hebrew word "רָעָה" (ra'ah) is used again, indicating calamity or distress. God's "planning" (Hebrew "חָשַׁב" - chashav) suggests a deliberate intention, yet it is not immutable. This reflects the biblical principle that while God is sovereign, He is also relational and responsive to human repentance.

because of the evil of their deeds
The "evil of their deeds" highlights the cause of the impending judgment. The Hebrew word for "deeds" is "מַעֲשֶׂה" (ma'aseh), which refers to actions or works. This phrase underscores the biblical teaching that sin has consequences. It serves as a reminder that God is holy and just, and He cannot overlook sin. However, it also points to the hope that through repentance, individuals can escape the consequences of their actions.

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 due to their disobedience.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often warned by prophets like Jeremiah to turn from their sinful ways and return to God.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who desires repentance from His people and is willing to relent from sending disaster if they turn from their evil ways.

4. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's message, who were living in sin and idolatry, prompting God's warning through the prophet.

5. Disaster
The impending judgment that God was planning to bring upon Judah due to their continued disobedience and evil deeds.

Teaching Points

The Call to Repentance
God consistently calls His people to turn from their evil ways. Repentance is not just a one-time act but a continual turning towards God and away from sin.

God's Reluctance to Judge
God does not delight in bringing disaster. His warnings are opportunities for His people to change their ways and avoid judgment.

The Power of Listening
The verse begins with "Perhaps they will listen," indicating the importance of being attentive to God's word. Listening is the first step towards transformation.

The Consequences of Sin
The disaster mentioned is a direct result of the people's evil deeds. Sin has real consequences, and ignoring God's warnings can lead to destruction.

Hope in God's Mercy
Even when judgment is imminent, there is hope in God's mercy. He is willing to relent if there is genuine repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does this passage teach us about God's character and His desires for His people?

2. How can we apply the principle of repentance in our daily lives, and what are some practical steps we can take to turn from our "evil ways"?

3. In what ways does listening to God's word impact our ability to change and avoid negative consequences?

4. How does the concept of God relenting from disaster upon repentance encourage us in our personal spiritual journey?

5. Can you think of a time when you experienced God's mercy after turning away from a wrong path? How does this experience relate to the message in Jeremiah 26:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse emphasizes the importance of God's people humbling themselves, praying, seeking His face, and turning from their wicked ways to receive healing and forgiveness.

Jonah 3:10
Illustrates God's willingness to relent from sending disaster when the people of Nineveh repented after Jonah's warning.

Ezekiel 18:23
Highlights God's desire for the wicked to turn from their ways and live, showing His preference for repentance over judgment.