Jeremiah 44:5

But they did not listen or incline their ears; they did not turn from their wickedness or stop burning incense to other gods.

Study Bible

But they did not listen
This phrase underscores the persistent disobedience of the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "listen" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but obeying. Historically, this reflects a pattern of rebellion against God's commands, as seen throughout the Old Testament. The people's refusal to heed God's warnings through the prophets is a recurring theme, highlighting the hardness of their hearts and their unwillingness to repent.

or incline their ear
The phrase "incline their ear" suggests a deliberate act of attention and willingness to understand. The Hebrew word "הִטָּה" (natah) means to stretch out or extend, indicating an intentional effort to listen. This imagery conveys the idea that the people were not just passively ignoring God but actively choosing not to engage with His message. In a spiritual sense, it calls believers to actively seek and be receptive to God's voice.

from their wickedness
"Wickedness" here is translated from the Hebrew word "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which encompasses evil, harm, and moral corruption. This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe actions that are contrary to God's will. The historical context of Jeremiah's time was marked by idolatry and social injustice, which were seen as manifestations of this wickedness. The call to turn from wickedness is a call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness.

or stop burning sacrifices
The act of "burning sacrifices" refers to the idolatrous practices that the people of Judah were engaging in, particularly the worship of foreign gods. The Hebrew word "קָטַר" (qatar) means to burn incense or offer sacrifices, often associated with pagan rituals. Archaeological findings have uncovered evidence of such practices, which were strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law. This highlights the severity of their apostasy and the need for reform.

to other gods
The phrase "other gods" points to the polytheistic practices that had infiltrated Judahite society. The Hebrew term "אֱלֹהִים אֲחֵרִים" (elohim acherim) refers to deities other than Yahweh, the God of Israel. This was a direct violation of the first commandment, which prohibited the worship of any god besides Yahweh. The historical context shows that the influence of surrounding nations often led Israel astray, emphasizing the importance of exclusive devotion to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and calls to repentance to the people of Judah.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which had fallen into idolatry and was facing God's judgment.

3. Egypt
The place where the remnant of Judah fled, despite God's warnings, and continued their idolatrous practices.

4. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest and fled to Egypt, continuing in disobedience.

5. Idolatry
The act of worshiping other gods, which was a significant sin that led to Judah's downfall.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Listening to God
God repeatedly calls His people to listen and obey. Ignoring His voice leads to spiritual and often physical consequences.

The Dangers of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can include anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must examine our hearts for modern-day idols.

Repentance as a Turning Point
True repentance involves a change of heart and direction. It is not enough to feel remorse; we must actively turn away from sin.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent disobedience leads to judgment. God's patience is immense, but it is not without limits.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
Prophets like Jeremiah were sent to guide and warn. Today, Scripture serves as our guide, and we must heed its warnings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that can distract us from fully worshiping God, and how can we identify them in our lives?

2. How does the account of Judah's disobedience in Jeremiah 44:5 serve as a warning for us today?

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

4. How does the concept of repentance in Jeremiah 44:5 compare to New Testament teachings on repentance?

5. What steps can we take to avoid the spiritual pitfalls that led to Judah's downfall, as described in Jeremiah 44:5?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, where the Israelites turned to idolatry shortly after being delivered from Egypt, showing a recurring pattern of disobedience.

2 Kings 17
The fall of the northern kingdom of Israel due to persistent idolatry, serving as a warning to Judah.

Deuteronomy 6:4-5
The Shema, which emphasizes the importance of exclusive worship of Yahweh, contrasting with Judah's idolatry.

Isaiah 1:2-4
A call to repentance and a description of Israel's rebellion, similar to Jeremiah's message.

1 Corinthians 10:14
A New Testament exhortation to flee from idolatry, showing the timelessness of this command.