Jeremiah 16:20

Can man make gods for himself? Such are not gods!"

Study Bible

Can man make gods for himself?
This phrase challenges the very notion of idolatry, which was prevalent in ancient Israel and surrounding nations. The Hebrew word for "make" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to create or fashion. This word is often used in the context of God’s creative acts, highlighting the absurdity of humans attempting to create deities. The rhetorical question underscores the futility and arrogance of humans trying to manufacture divine beings. Historically, the Israelites were surrounded by cultures that crafted idols from wood, stone, and metal, believing these objects could embody divine power. This practice is condemned throughout Scripture, as it detracts from the worship of the one true God. Theologically, this phrase calls believers to recognize the sovereignty and uniqueness of God, who cannot be replicated or contained by human hands.

Such are not gods!
This emphatic declaration serves as a divine verdict on the nature of idols. The Hebrew word for "gods" here is "אֱלֹהִים" (elohim), which can refer to the true God or false gods, depending on the context. In this case, it refers to the latter, emphasizing their impotence and nonexistence. The phrase "such are not gods" is a powerful reminder of the distinction between the Creator and the created. Archaeological findings have uncovered numerous idols from ancient Near Eastern cultures, yet these artifacts only serve to highlight the contrast between the living God and lifeless objects. Scripturally, this statement aligns with the consistent biblical theme that idols are worthless and cannot save or deliver (see Isaiah 44:9-20). From a conservative Christian perspective, this verse calls believers to reject all forms of idolatry, whether physical or metaphorical, and to place their trust solely in the living God, who alone is worthy of worship and adoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah was called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned over 40 years, during which he witnessed the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often led astray by idolatry and disobedience to God. Jeremiah's prophecies were primarily directed towards the people of Judah.

3. Idolatry
The practice of worshiping idols or false gods, which was a significant issue in Judah. Jeremiah frequently condemned this practice, as it led the people away from the one true God.

4. Babylonian Exile
A pivotal event in Jewish history where the people of Judah were taken captive by Babylon. This was a consequence of their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

5. False Gods
The idols and deities created by human hands, which were worshiped by the people of Judah despite being powerless and lifeless.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just a historical issue but a present-day challenge. Anything that takes the place of God in our lives can become an idol, whether it be material possessions, relationships, or personal ambitions.

The Unchanging Nature of God
Unlike man-made idols, God is eternal, unchanging, and sovereign. Our worship should be directed towards Him alone, as He is the source of all life and truth.

The Call to Repentance
Jeremiah's message is a call to turn away from false gods and return to the Lord. Repentance involves recognizing our misplaced priorities and realigning our lives with God's will.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The history of Judah serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. Disobedience leads to spiritual and sometimes physical exile, but God always offers a path to restoration.

The Importance of True Worship
True worship is not about rituals or external practices but about a heart fully devoted to God. It involves acknowledging His lordship and living in obedience to His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that can distract us from worshiping the one true God?

2. How does understanding the historical context of Judah's idolatry help us apply Jeremiah 16:20 to our lives today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains focused on God and not on man-made constructs or ideas?

4. How do the consequences faced by Judah serve as a warning for us in our spiritual journey?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to "tear down" an idol in your life. What steps did you take to refocus your worship on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-4
The Ten Commandments explicitly prohibit the making and worshiping of idols, emphasizing the importance of worshiping the one true God.

Isaiah 44:9-20
Isaiah also speaks against the futility of idol-making, highlighting the absurdity of worshiping something crafted by human hands.

Psalm 115:4-8
This passage describes the impotence of idols, contrasting them with the living God who is worthy of worship.

Acts 17:29
Paul, in his sermon at the Areopagus, speaks against the creation of gods from gold, silver, or stone, echoing the message of Jeremiah.