Jeremiah 8:10
Therefore I will give their wives to other men and their fields to new owners. For from the least of them to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; from prophet to priest, all practice deceit.
Therefore
This word serves as a conclusion or result of the preceding verses, where God expresses His lament over the people's unfaithfulness and stubbornness. In Hebrew, the word often translated as "therefore" is "לָכֵן" (lakhen), which indicates a logical consequence. It underscores the seriousness of the people's actions and the inevitable divine response. The use of "therefore" here is a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience and disobedience, respectively.

I will give their wives to other men
This phrase is a stark depiction of the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness. In the ancient Near Eastern context, losing one's wife to another man was a profound dishonor and a sign of divine judgment. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on family and lineage, and this loss signifies a deep rupture in the social and spiritual fabric of the community. It reflects the severity of the people's betrayal of God, as they have turned to idolatry and injustice, leading to the breakdown of their most intimate relationships.

and their fields to new owners
Fields were a primary source of sustenance and wealth in ancient Israel. The transfer of fields to new owners symbolizes the loss of economic stability and divine blessing. In the Hebrew text, the word for "fields" is "שָׂדוֹת" (sadot), which conveys the idea of cultivated land, essential for survival. This loss is a direct consequence of the people's greed and corruption, as they have failed to uphold justice and righteousness, leading to their dispossession.

For from the least to the greatest
This phrase highlights the pervasive nature of the corruption among the people of Judah. The Hebrew words "מִקָּטֹן וְעַד־גָּדוֹל" (miqqaton ve'ad-gadol) emphasize that the moral decay is not limited to a specific class or group but affects the entire society. This universality of sin underscores the depth of the nation's spiritual crisis and the need for comprehensive repentance and reform.

all are greedy for gain
The Hebrew word for "greedy" is "בָּצַע" (batsa), which conveys a sense of unjust gain or covetousness. This phrase indicates that the people's primary motivation is self-interest and material wealth, rather than obedience to God and care for their neighbors. This greed is a violation of the covenantal laws that call for justice, mercy, and humility before God, as outlined in the Torah.

from prophet to priest
Prophets and priests were meant to be spiritual leaders and mediators between God and the people. The mention of both groups in this context highlights the failure of those who were supposed to guide the nation in righteousness. In Hebrew, "נָבִיא" (navi) for prophet and "כֹּהֵן" (kohen) for priest, these roles were divinely appointed to uphold and teach God's law. Their corruption signifies a breakdown in spiritual leadership and accountability.

all practice deceit
The Hebrew word for "deceit" is "שֶׁקֶר" (sheker), which means falsehood or deception. This phrase indicates that dishonesty has become a norm among the people, including those in positions of spiritual authority. The practice of deceit is a direct violation of the commandments and reflects a heart that is far from God. It serves as a call to return to truth and integrity, foundational values in the covenant relationship with God.

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

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment due to its persistent sin and rebellion against God.

3. Prophets and Priests
Religious leaders in Judah who were expected to guide the people in truth but were instead complicit in deceit and corruption.

4. Wives and Fields
Symbolic of the consequences of sin, where personal and communal stability is disrupted due to unfaithfulness and greed.

5. God's Judgment
The event of divine retribution that Jeremiah warns about, where God allows the consequences of the people's sins to unfold.
Teaching Points
The Consequences of Greed and Deceit
Greed and deceit lead to societal breakdown and personal loss. The pursuit of dishonest gain results in God's judgment and the loss of what is most valued.

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders, especially spiritual ones, have a responsibility to uphold truth and justice. When they fail, the consequences affect the entire community.

The Importance of Repentance
The call to repentance is urgent. Ignoring God's warnings leads to severe consequences, but turning back to Him can restore and heal.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgment is a response to persistent sin. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and the seriousness of living according to His standards.

The Hope of Restoration
While judgment is severe, God's ultimate desire is for restoration. His warnings are an invitation to return to Him and experience His mercy.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the greed and deceit described in Jeremiah 8:10 manifest in today's society, and what are the consequences?

2. In what ways can spiritual leaders today ensure they are leading with integrity and truth?

3. How does the theme of judgment in Jeremiah 8:10 relate to the New Testament teachings on accountability and repentance?

4. What steps can individuals take to guard against greed and deceit in their own lives?

5. How can the hope of restoration be communicated to those who feel the weight of judgment in their lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Micah 3:11
This verse also addresses the corruption among leaders, highlighting the greed and deceit of those who should be upholding justice and truth.

Ezekiel 22:27-29
Similar themes of corruption and exploitation among the leaders of Israel, emphasizing the widespread nature of the problem.

Hosea 4:1-2
Describes the moral decay and lack of faithfulness in the land, which parallels the situation in Jeremiah's time.

Matthew 23:27-28
Jesus condemns the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, drawing a parallel to the deceitful practices of the prophets and priests in Jeremiah's day.
Backsliding in its Worst FormsS. Conway Jeremiah 8:4-11
Peace, Peace; When There is no PeaceA.F. Muir Jeremiah 8:8-12
The Exposure of Pseudo-WisdomD. Young Jeremiah 8:8-12
People
Dan, Jeremiah
Places
Dan, Gilead, Jerusalem, Zion
Topics
Alike, Conquerors, Covetousness, Dealeth, Dealing, Deals, Deceit, Dishonest, Dispossessors, Falsely, Fields, Gain, Gaining, Getting, Greatest, Greedy, Inherit, Least, Money, Owners, Possess, Practice, Practices, Priest, Priests, Prophet, Prophets, Themselves, Unjust, Wives
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Jeremiah 8:10

     5465   profit
     5870   greed, condemnation
     6134   coveting, prohibition

Jeremiah 8:7-12

     6183   ignorance, of God

Jeremiah 8:10-11

     5943   self-deception

Library
December 8. "Is There no Balm in Gilead; is There no Physician There?" (Jer. viii. 22).
"Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there?" (Jer. viii. 22). Divine healing is just divine life. It is the headship of Christ over the body. It is the life of Christ in the frame. It is the union of our members with the very body of Christ and the inflowing life of Christ in our living members. It is as real as His risen and glorified body. It is as reasonable as the fact that He was raised from the dead and is a living man with a true body and a rational soul to-day, at God's right
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

What have I Done?
The text is "What have I done?" I shall just introduce that by a few words of affectionate persuasion, urging all now present to ask that question: secondly, I shall give them a few words of assistance in trying to answer it; and when I have so done, I shall finish by a few sentences of solemn admonition to those who have had to answer the question against themselves. I. First, then, a few words of EARNEST PERSUASION, requesting every one now present, and more especially every unconverted person,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

Who Shall Deliver?
"Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?"--JER. viii. 22. "Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings. Behold, we come unto Thee; for Thou art the Lord our God."-JER. iii. 22. "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed."-JER. xii. 14. "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me out of the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

"For they that are after the Flesh do Mind,"
Rom. viii. s 5, 6.--"For they that are after the flesh do mind," &c. "For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." There are many differences among men in this world, that, as to outward appearance, are great and wide, and indeed they are so eagerly pursued, and seriously minded by men, as if they were great and momentous. You see what a strife and contention there is among men, how to be extracted out of the dregs of the multitude, and set a little higher
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Letter ii (A. D. 1126) to the Monk Adam
To the Monk Adam [3] 1. If you remain yet in that spirit of charity which I either knew or believed to be with you formerly, you would certainly feel the condemnation with which charity must regard the scandal which you have given to the weak. For charity would not offend charity, nor scorn when it feels itself offended. For it cannot deny itself, nor be divided against itself. Its function is rather to draw together things divided; and it is far from dividing those that are joined. Now, if that
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Backsliding.
"I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely: for Mine anger is turned away."--Hosea xiv. 4. There are two kinds of backsliders. Some have never been converted: they have gone through the form of joining a Christian community and claim to be backsliders; but they never have, if I may use the expression, "slid forward." They may talk of backsliding; but they have never really been born again. They need to be treated differently from real back-sliders--those who have been born of the incorruptible
Dwight L. Moody—The Way to God and How to Find It

A Book for Boys and Girls Or, Temporal Things Spritualized.
by John Bunyan, Licensed and entered according to order. London: Printed for, and sold by, R. Tookey, at his Printing House in St. Christopher's Court, in Threadneedle Street, behind the Royal Exchange, 1701. Advertisement by the Editor. Some degree of mystery hangs over these Divine Emblems for children, and many years' diligent researches have not enabled me completely to solve it. That they were written by Bunyan, there cannot be the slightest doubt. 'Manner and matter, too, are all his own.'[1]
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

"But Whereunto Shall I Liken this Generation?"
Matth. xi. 16.--"But whereunto shall I liken this generation?" When our Lord Jesus, who had the tongue of the learned, and spoke as never man spake, did now and then find a difficulty to express the matter herein contained. "What shall we do?" The matter indeed is of great importance, a soul matter, and therefore of great moment, a mystery, and therefore not easily expressed. No doubt he knows how to paint out this to the life, that we might rather behold it with our eyes, than hear it with our
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Intercession of Christ
Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us! T he Redemption of the soul is precious. Fools make mock of sin (Proverbs 14:9) . But they will not think lightly of it, who duly consider the majesty, authority, and goodness of Him, against whom it is committed; and who are taught, by what God actually has done, what sin rendered necessary to be done, before a sinner could have a well-grounded
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

Jeremiah
The interest of the book of Jeremiah is unique. On the one hand, it is our most reliable and elaborate source for the long period of history which it covers; on the other, it presents us with prophecy in its most intensely human phase, manifesting itself through a strangely attractive personality that was subject to like doubts and passions with ourselves. At his call, in 626 B.C., he was young and inexperienced, i. 6, so that he cannot have been born earlier than 650. The political and religious
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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