Jeremiah 9:15

Therefore this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: "Behold, I will feed this people wormwood and give them poisoned water to drink.

Study Bible

Therefore
This word connects the preceding context with the consequence that follows. In the Hebrew text, it is often used to indicate a logical conclusion or divine response to the actions of the people. Here, it signifies that the judgment pronounced is a direct result of the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry.

this is what the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores His ability to execute judgment and His sovereign control over all creation. This title reassures believers of God's omnipotence and His ultimate justice.

the God of Israel
This phrase highlights the covenant relationship between God and the nation of Israel. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remains their God, emphasizing His enduring commitment to His chosen people. It serves as a reminder of the special bond and the expectations that come with being God's covenant people.

says
The use of "says" indicates a direct divine pronouncement. In prophetic literature, this term often introduces a message from God, underscoring the authority and seriousness of the words that follow. It is a call to heed the divine warning and recognize its significance.

Behold
This word is an attention-grabber, urging the audience to pay close attention to the forthcoming message. It is often used in Scripture to introduce something significant or unexpected. Here, it signals the gravity of the impending judgment.

I will feed this people wormwood
"Wormwood" is a bitter plant, often associated with sorrow and calamity in biblical literature. The Hebrew word "la'anah" conveys the idea of bitterness and suffering. This metaphor indicates that God will bring about severe consequences that will be as bitter and distressing as wormwood, reflecting the spiritual and moral decay of the people.

and give them poisoned water to drink
The imagery of "poisoned water" (or "gall") further emphasizes the severity of the judgment. In the ancient Near East, water was a symbol of life and sustenance. To have it poisoned signifies a complete reversal of blessing into curse. This phrase underscores the dire consequences of turning away from God and the spiritual toxicity of idolatry and sin.

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. The God of Israel
This designation highlights the covenant relationship between God and the nation of Israel, reminding them of their unique status and responsibilities.

3. Jeremiah
The prophet through whom God delivers this message. He is known for his role in warning Judah of impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness.

4. The People of Israel
The recipients of this message, who have turned away from God, leading to the pronouncement of judgment.

5. Wormwood and Poisoned Water
Symbolic elements representing the bitterness and suffering that will come upon the people as a consequence of their disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real and severe consequences. Just as God warned Israel, He warns us today about the dangers of turning away from Him.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgments are just and righteous. He does not act capriciously but responds to persistent disobedience and rebellion.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance. God desires that His people turn back to Him and avoid the bitter consequences of sin.

The Importance of Covenant Faithfulness
As believers, we are called to remain faithful to our covenant relationship with God, just as Israel was called to be faithful to theirs.

The Hope of Redemption
While this passage speaks of judgment, the broader account of Scripture offers hope and redemption through Christ, who takes upon Himself the bitterness of our sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "wormwood" and "poisoned water" in Jeremiah 9:15 help us understand the consequences of sin in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of God's judgment in Jeremiah 9:15 challenge or affirm your understanding of His character?

3. How can we apply the lessons of Israel's unfaithfulness to our personal walk with God today?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where God uses natural elements to symbolize spiritual truths, and how do they enhance your understanding of His messages?

5. How does the theme of repentance in the book of Jeremiah connect with the New Testament teachings on repentance and forgiveness through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 29:18
This verse warns against turning away from God and following other gods, using "wormwood" as a metaphor for the bitterness of such a path. It connects to Jeremiah 9:15 by illustrating the consequences of idolatry and unfaithfulness.

Revelation 8:10-11
In the New Testament, wormwood is mentioned in the context of judgment during the end times, showing a thematic continuity of bitterness and divine retribution.

Proverbs 5:4
This verse uses wormwood to describe the end result of following the path of sin, reinforcing the idea of sin leading to bitterness and destruction.