Jeremiah 35:17

Therefore this is what the LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Behold, I will bring to Judah and to all the residents of Jerusalem all the disaster I have pronounced against them, because I have spoken to them but they have not obeyed, and I have called to them but they have not answered.'"

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD God of Hosts, the God of Israel, says
This phrase establishes the authority and sovereignty of God. The title "LORD God of Hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) emphasizes God's supreme command over the heavenly armies, underscoring His power and ability to execute judgment. The "God of Israel" highlights His covenant relationship with His people, reminding them of their unique position and the responsibilities that come with it. Historically, this title reassures the Israelites of God's enduring presence and faithfulness, even as He pronounces judgment.

Behold, I will bring on Judah and on all the residents of Jerusalem
The word "Behold" (Hebrew: הִנֵּה, hinneh) is a call to attention, urging the audience to listen carefully to the forthcoming declaration. The focus on "Judah and on all the residents of Jerusalem" indicates the specific target of God's judgment. Judah, representing the southern kingdom, and Jerusalem, the spiritual and political center, are highlighted to show that no part of the nation is exempt from accountability. This reflects the historical context of the divided kingdom and the persistent disobedience of the people.

all the disaster I have pronounced against them
The term "disaster" (Hebrew: רָעָה, ra'ah) conveys a sense of calamity or evil that is a direct consequence of the people's actions. The phrase "I have pronounced" indicates that this is not a new judgment but a fulfillment of previous warnings given through the prophets. This underscores the consistency and justice of God, who does not act capriciously but in accordance with His declared word.

because I have spoken to them but they have not obeyed
Here, the emphasis is on the communication between God and His people. The phrase "I have spoken" (Hebrew: דִּבַּרְתִּי, dibarti) reflects God's proactive engagement with His people through His word. The failure to "obey" (Hebrew: שָׁמַע, shama) signifies a deeper issue of listening and responding to God's voice. This disobedience is not merely a failure to hear but a willful rejection of God's commands, highlighting the moral and spiritual decline of the nation.

and I have called to them but they have not answered
The imagery of God "calling" (Hebrew: קָרָאתִי, qarati) suggests an invitation to relationship and repentance. The lack of response, "they have not answered" (Hebrew: לֹא עָנוּ, lo anu), indicates a hardened heart and a refusal to engage with God. This reflects a pattern seen throughout the prophetic literature, where God reaches out to His people, yet they persist in their rebellion. The historical context of Jeremiah's ministry, marked by repeated calls to repentance, underscores the tragedy of this unresponsiveness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD, the God of Hosts, the God of Israel
This title emphasizes God's sovereignty, authority, and covenant relationship with Israel. It underscores His power and His right to judge His people.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, consisting of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. It was the primary audience of Jeremiah's prophecies.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the spiritual and political center of the Jewish people. It was often the focal point of prophetic warnings due to its central role in Israel's identity.

4. The Rechabites
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, they are central to the context of Jeremiah 35. Their obedience to their ancestor Jonadab's command is contrasted with Judah's disobedience to God.

5. Jeremiah
The prophet through whom God delivered His messages to Judah. Known as the "weeping prophet," he often conveyed messages of judgment and calls for repentance.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Just as the Rechabites obeyed their ancestor, we are called to obey God. Disobedience leads to consequences, as seen in Judah's experience.

God's Patience and Justice
God repeatedly called out to His people, showing His patience. However, His justice requires that unrepentant disobedience be addressed.

Listening to God's Call
The repeated theme of God calling and people not answering serves as a reminder to be attentive and responsive to God's voice in our lives.

Consequences of Ignoring God
Ignoring God's warnings leads to disaster. This serves as a cautionary tale for us to heed God's Word and avoid spiritual complacency.

Covenant Relationship
God's relationship with Israel was based on a covenant, which included both promises and responsibilities. Our relationship with God through Christ also involves commitment and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the Rechabites' obedience challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are listening and responding to God's voice in our daily lives?

3. How does understanding the consequences outlined in Deuteronomy 28 help us grasp the seriousness of Judah's situation in Jeremiah 35:17?

4. What are some modern-day "disasters" that might result from ignoring God's guidance and commands?

5. How can we cultivate a heart that is quick to respond to God's calls, avoiding the pitfalls of spiritual deafness seen in Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences Judah faces in Jeremiah 35:17.

Isaiah 65:12
This verse similarly speaks of God calling out to His people and their refusal to listen, highlighting a recurring theme of disobedience and its consequences.

Proverbs 1:24-31
These verses echo the theme of God calling and people not responding, leading to calamity, reinforcing the principle of reaping what one sows.