Jeremiah 29:17

this is what the LORD of Hosts says: "I will send against them sword and famine and plague, and I will make them like rotten figs, so bad they cannot be eaten.

Study Bible

This is what the LORD of Hosts says
The phrase "LORD of Hosts" is a powerful title for God, emphasizing His supreme authority and command over the armies of heaven and earth. The Hebrew term "Yahweh Sabaoth" reflects God's omnipotence and His role as a divine warrior. Historically, this title reassures the faithful of God's ability to protect and execute His will, even amidst adversity. It is a reminder of His sovereignty and the ultimate power He wields over all creation.

I will send against them
This phrase indicates divine judgment and action. The Hebrew verb "send" (שָׁלַח, shalach) conveys a purposeful dispatching of consequences. In the context of Jeremiah, God is addressing the rebellious people of Judah who have turned away from His commandments. This is not a random act of wrath but a deliberate response to their persistent disobedience and idolatry.

sword, famine, and plague
These three calamities are often mentioned together in the Old Testament as instruments of divine judgment. The "sword" symbolizes war and conflict, "famine" represents scarcity and suffering, and "plague" denotes disease and death. Historically, these were common threats in the ancient Near East, and their mention here underscores the severity of God's impending judgment. They serve as a call to repentance, highlighting the dire consequences of straying from God's covenant.

and I will make them like rotten figs
The imagery of "rotten figs" is vivid and symbolic. In the ancient world, figs were a staple food, and their rottenness signifies worthlessness and rejection. The Hebrew word for "rotten" (רָע, ra) can also mean evil or bad, further emphasizing the moral and spiritual decay of the people. This metaphor illustrates the complete corruption and unacceptability of those who have turned away from God.

that cannot be eaten, so rotten they are
This phrase reinforces the totality of the judgment. The figs are not just undesirable; they are inedible, highlighting the irreversible nature of the people's corruption. In a broader scriptural context, this serves as a warning to all believers about the dangers of persistent sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God's commands. It is a call to self-examination and repentance, urging the faithful to seek restoration and renewal in their relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD of Hosts
This title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores His ability to execute judgment and fulfill His promises.

2. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Judah. He was tasked with delivering difficult truths, including warnings of impending judgment.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which had turned away from God, leading to the prophesied judgment.

4. Sword, Famine, and Plague
These are the instruments of judgment that God declares He will send against the people. They symbolize comprehensive devastation affecting all aspects of life.

5. Rotten Figs
A metaphor for the people of Judah, indicating their spiritual and moral corruption, making them unfit for God's purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Recognize that God is just and sovereign, and His judgments are righteous. He uses various means to bring about His purposes and call His people back to Himself.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Understand that turning away from God leads to spiritual decay and eventual judgment. This serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands.

The Call to Repentance
God's warnings are an invitation to repentance. Even in judgment, there is an opportunity for restoration if we turn back to Him with sincere hearts.

The Importance of Spiritual Fruitfulness
Evaluate your life for spiritual fruit. Just as rotten figs are unfit for consumption, a life devoid of spiritual fruit is unfit for God's purposes.

Hope in God's Mercy
Despite the severity of judgment, God's ultimate desire is for restoration and reconciliation. Trust in His mercy and grace, which are available to all who repent.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the title "LORD of Hosts" influence your understanding of God's authority and power in your life?

2. In what ways can the metaphor of rotten figs be applied to evaluate your spiritual health and fruitfulness?

3. How do the consequences of sword, famine, and plague in Jeremiah 29:17 relate to the broader biblical theme of judgment for disobedience?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are living a life of obedience and faithfulness to God, avoiding the pitfalls of spiritual decay?

5. How can the message of repentance and hope in God's mercy be shared with others who may feel distant from God due to their past actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including sword, famine, and plague, which are echoed in Jeremiah 29:17 as consequences for Judah's unfaithfulness.

Ezekiel 5:12
This passage also speaks of sword, famine, and plague as judgments, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution for sin.

Matthew 21:19
Jesus curses the barren fig tree, symbolizing judgment on unfruitfulness, similar to the rotten figs metaphor in Jeremiah.