The term "this people" is frequently used in the Bible to refer to the Israelites, often highlighting their collective identity, actions, or spiritual state. It is a phrase that underscores the relationship between God and the nation of Israel, as well as the expectations and judgments that come with that relationship.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, "this people" is often used by God or His prophets to address the Israelites, particularly in contexts of admonition or judgment. For example, in Isaiah 6:9-10 , God instructs the prophet Isaiah: "Go and tell this people: ‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ Make the hearts of this people calloused; deafen their ears and close their eyes." Here, "this people" refers to the Israelites who are resistant to God's message, highlighting their spiritual blindness and stubbornness.

Similarly, in Jeremiah 7:23 , God speaks through the prophet Jeremiah, saying, "But this is what I commanded them: ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people. You must walk in all the ways I have commanded you, so that it may go well with you.’" The phrase "this people" is used to remind the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God and the blessings contingent upon their obedience.

New Testament Usage

In the New Testament, "this people" continues to refer to the Jewish people, often in the context of their response to Jesus Christ and His teachings. In Matthew 15:8 , Jesus quotes Isaiah, saying, "These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me." Here, "this people" is used to critique the superficial religiosity of the Jewish leaders and their followers, emphasizing the need for genuine faith and repentance.

In Acts 28:25-27 , the Apostle Paul, addressing the Jewish leaders in Rome, cites Isaiah: "The Holy Spirit was right when He spoke to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet: ‘Go to this people and say, “You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.”’" Paul uses "this people" to refer to the Jewish audience, highlighting their continued resistance to the Gospel message.

Theological Implications

The use of "this people" in Scripture often serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It underscores the responsibilities and expectations placed upon the Israelites as God's chosen people. The phrase also highlights the recurring theme of human disobedience and the need for repentance and faithfulness to God's commands.

Throughout the Bible, "this people" serves as a call to self-examination and spiritual renewal, urging the Israelites—and by extension, all believers—to align their hearts and actions with God's will. It is a term that encapsulates both the privilege and the accountability of being in a covenant relationship with the Almighty.