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Jeremiah 7

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‹ Chapter 6 Jeremiah — All Chapters Chapter 8 ›

1 This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, 2 “Stand in the gate of the house of the LORD and proclaim this message: Hear the word of the LORD, all you people of Judah who enter through these gates to worship the LORD. 3 Thus says the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel: Correct your ways and deeds, and I will let you live in this place. 4 Do not trust in deceptive words, chanting: ‘This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD.’ 5 For if you really correct your ways and deeds, if you act justly toward one another, 6 if you no longer oppress the foreigner and the fatherless and the widow, and if you no longer shed innocent blood in this place or follow other gods to your own harm, 7 then I will let you live in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever. 8 But look, you keep trusting in deceptive words to no avail. 9 Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal, and follow other gods that you have not known, 10 and then come and stand before Me in this house, which bears My Name, and say, ‘We are delivered, so we can continue with all these abominations’? 11 Has this house, which bears My Name, become a den of robbers in your sight? Yes, I too have seen it, declares the LORD. 12 But go now to the place in Shiloh where I first made a dwelling for My Name, and see what I did to it because of the wickedness of My people Israel. 13 And now, because you have done all these things, declares the LORD, and because I have spoken to you again and again but you would not listen, and I have called to you but you would not answer, 14 therefore what I did to Shiloh I will now do to the house that bears My Name, the house in which you trust, the place that I gave to you and your fathers. 15 And I will cast you out of My presence, just as I have cast out all your brothers, all the descendants of Ephraim. 16 As for you, do not pray for these people, do not offer a plea or petition on their behalf, and do not beg Me, for I will not listen to you. 17 Do you not see what they are doing in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem? 18 The sons gather wood, the fathers light the fire, and the women knead the dough to make cakes for the Queen of Heaven; they pour out drink offerings to other gods to provoke Me to anger. 19 But am I the One they are provoking? declares the LORD. Is it not themselves they spite, to their own shame? 20 Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, My anger and My fury will be poured out on this place, on man and beast, on the trees of the field and the produce of the land, and it will burn and not be extinguished. 21 This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: Add your burnt offerings to your other sacrifices and eat the meat yourselves! 22 For when I brought your fathers out of the land of Egypt, I did not merely command them about burnt offerings and sacrifices, 23 but this is what I commanded them: Obey Me, 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. 24 Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but they followed the stubborn inclinations of their own evil hearts. They went backward and not forward. 25 From the day your fathers came out of the land of Egypt until this day, I have sent you all My servants the prophets again and again. 26 Yet they would not listen to Me or incline their ear, but they stiffened their necks and did more evil than their fathers. 27 When you tell them all these things, they will not listen to you. When you call to them, they will not answer. 28 Therefore you must say to them, ‘This is the nation that would not listen to the voice of the LORD their God and would not receive correction. Truth has perished; it has disappeared from their lips. 29 Cut off your hair and throw it away. Raise up a lamentation on the barren heights, for the LORD has rejected and forsaken the generation of His wrath.’ 30 For the people of Judah have done evil in My sight, declares the LORD. They have set up their abominations in the house that bears My Name, and so have defiled it. 31 They have built the high places of Topheth in the Valley of Hinnom so they could burn their sons and daughters in the fire—something I never commanded, nor did it even enter My mind. 32 So behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when this place will no longer be called Topheth and the Valley of Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter. For they will bury the dead in Topheth until there is no more room. 33 The corpses of this people will become food for the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and there will be no one to scare them away. 34 I will remove from the cities of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem the sounds of joy and gladness and the voices of the bride and bridegroom, for the land will become a wasteland."

‹ Chapter 6 Jeremiah — All Chapters Chapter 8 ›

Study Notes — Jeremiah 7

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with Jeremiah standing at the gate of the Temple, calling the people to repentance and warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience (Jeremiah 7:1-20). He condemns their empty rituals and outward show of religiosity, emphasizing that true worship is a matter of the heart (Jeremiah 7:21-28). The chapter also contains a lament over the nation's spiritual decay and a call to return to the Lord (Jeremiah 7:29-34). The prophet announces God's judgment on the nation, including the destruction of the Temple and the exile of the people (Jeremiah 7:1-15, 30). Despite this judgment, the chapter ends with a message of hope, promising that if the people return to the Lord, He will restore them and bring them back to their homeland (Jeremiah 7:23).

Context for the Chapter

Jeremiah 7 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Jeremiah, which tells the story of God's judgment on Judah for their idolatry and disobedience. The chapter is set in the context of the Temple, where Jeremiah is calling the people to repentance and warning them of the consequences of their sins. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people and His plan of redemption through Jesus Christ.

Heart Application

The chapter calls us to examine our own hearts and lives, to ensure that we are truly worshiping God and obeying His commands. It reminds us that true worship is not just about outward rituals or actions, but about a deep and abiding relationship with God. As we reflect on the chapter, we are called to repentance and obedience, and to trust in God's promise of restoration and blessing.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter is about God's judgment on the people of Judah for their idolatry and disobedience. God is calling them to return to Him and obey His commands, promising to restore them if they do. The chapter emphasizes the importance of true worship and obedience to God's commands, and warns against empty rituals and outward show of religiosity. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of having a deep and abiding relationship with God, and of trusting in His promise of restoration and blessing.

Voices from the Church

“The greatest curse that can befall a people is to have a false sense of security, to think that they are safe when they are not. This is the danger that Jeremiah is warning against in this chapter.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The Temple was a symbol of God's presence among His people, but it had become a source of false comfort and complacency. Jeremiah is calling the people to true worship and obedience, rather than just going through the motions.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Call to Repentance (Jeremiah 7:1-20) — Jeremiah stands at the gate of the Temple, calling the people to repentance and warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience.
  2. The Condemnation of Empty Rituals (Jeremiah 7:21-28) — Jeremiah condemns the empty rituals and outward show of religiosity that characterized the people's worship, emphasizing that true worship is a matter of the heart.
  3. The Lament over the Nation's Spiritual Decay (Jeremiah 7:29-34) — The chapter contains a lament over the nation's spiritual decay and a call to return to the Lord.
  4. The Announcement of Judgment (Jeremiah 7:1-15, 30) — The prophet announces God's judgment on the nation, including the destruction of the Temple and the exile of the people.
  5. The Promise of Restoration (Jeremiah 7:23) — Despite the judgment and destruction announced in the chapter, there is a message of hope and restoration, promising that if the people return to the Lord, He will bring them back to their homeland and restore them.

Core Doctrines

The Importance of Obedience
This chapter teaches that obedience to God's commands is essential for a right relationship with Him, and that disobedience leads to judgment and destruction.
The Nature of True Worship
The chapter emphasizes that true worship is a matter of the heart, and that empty rituals and outward show of religiosity are not acceptable to God.
The Promise of Restoration
The chapter teaches that despite God's judgment and destruction, there is always hope for restoration and blessing, if the people return to the Lord and obey His commands.
The Reciprocal Nature of the Covenant
The chapter highlights the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God's presence and blessing are contingent on their obedience and faithfulness.

Lessons from Jeremiah 7

  1. The Importance of True Worship — This chapter teaches us that true worship is a matter of the heart, and that empty rituals and outward show of religiosity are not acceptable to God.
  2. The Danger of Complacency — The chapter warns us against the danger of having a false sense of security, and reminds us that we must always be vigilant and attentive to our spiritual lives.
  3. The Promise of Restoration — The chapter teaches us that despite God's judgment and destruction, there is always hope for restoration and blessing, if we return to the Lord and obey His commands.
  4. The Reciprocal Nature of the Covenant — The chapter highlights the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God's presence and blessing are contingent on our obedience and faithfulness.
  5. The Importance of Obedience — This chapter teaches us that obedience to God's commands is essential for a right relationship with Him, and that disobedience leads to judgment and destruction.

Themes from Jeremiah 7

  1. Judgment and Restoration — This chapter is about God's judgment on the people of Judah for their idolatry and disobedience, but also about His promise of restoration if they return to Him.
  2. True Worship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of true worship, which is a matter of the heart, rather than just outward rituals and show of religiosity.
  3. Obedience to God's Commands — The chapter teaches that obedience to God's commands is essential for a right relationship with Him, and that disobedience leads to judgment and destruction.
  4. The Reciprocal Nature of the Covenant — The chapter highlights the reciprocal nature of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God's presence and blessing are contingent on their obedience and faithfulness.
  5. The Promise of Blessing — The chapter teaches that despite God's judgment and destruction, there is always hope for restoration and blessing, if the people return to the Lord and obey His commands.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways in which we can ensure that our worship is true and heartfelt, rather than just going through the motions?
  2. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our own lives, and what are some potential consequences of disobedience?
  3. What are some ways in which we can trust in God's promise of restoration and blessing, even in the face of judgment and destruction?
  4. How can we avoid the danger of having a false sense of security, and what are some signs that we may be complacent or self-satisfied in our spiritual lives?
  5. What are some ways in which we can prioritize true worship and obedience to God's commands in our own lives, and what are some potential benefits of doing so?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Call to Repentance (Jeremiah 7:1-20)

Jeremiah 7:1 Jeremiah stands at the gate of the Temple, calling the people to repentance and warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience.
Jeremiah 7:2 The people are commanded to amend their ways and obey God's voice, that it may go well with them.
Jeremiah 7:3 The people are warned that if they do not obey God's commands, they will be cast out of the land and their Temple will be destroyed.

2. The Condemnation of Empty Rituals (Jeremiah 7:21-28)

Jeremiah 7:21 The people are condemned for their empty rituals and outward show of religiosity, which are not acceptable to God.
Jeremiah 7:22 The people are reminded that God did not command their fathers to offer burnt offerings or sacrifices when He brought them out of the land of Egypt.
Jeremiah 7:23 The people are commanded to obey God's voice, and He will be their God, and they will be His people; and they are to walk in all the ways He commands them, that it may go well with them.

3. The Lament over the Nation's Spiritual Decay (Jeremiah 7:29-34)

Jeremiah 7:29 The people are called to lament over the nation's spiritual decay and to return to the Lord.
Jeremiah 7:30 The people are warned that they have set their abominations in the house which is called by God's name, to defile it.
Jeremiah 7:31 The people are condemned for their idolatry and disobedience, which have led to the destruction of their children and the desolation of their land.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of Jeremiah 7?

The main theme of Jeremiah 7 is God's judgment on the people of Judah for their idolatry and disobedience, and His promise of restoration if they return to Him (Jeremiah 7:1-20, 23).

What is the significance of the Temple in this chapter?

The Temple is a symbol of God's presence among His people, but it has become a source of false comfort and complacency (Jeremiah 7:1-20).

How can we apply the principles of this chapter to our own lives?

We can apply the principles of this chapter by examining our own hearts and lives, and ensuring that we are truly worshiping God and obeying His commands (Jeremiah 7:23).

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Jeremiah 7:1 → Deuteronomy 12:1-14 The command to obey God's voice and walk in His ways is reminiscent of Deuteronomy 12:1-14, where the Israelites are commanded to destroy all the places where the nations served their gods.
2 Jeremiah 7:23 → Exodus 19:5-6 The promise of restoration and blessing is similar to Exodus 19:5-6, where God promises to make the Israelites a kingdom of priests and a holy nation if they obey His voice and keep His covenant.
3 Jeremiah 7:29 → Leviticus 26:30-33 The lament over the nation's spiritual decay is similar to Leviticus 26:30-33, where God warns the Israelites that if they do not obey His commands, He will destroy their high places and cast their carcasses upon the carcasses of their idols.
4 Jeremiah 7:31 → Deuteronomy 12:31 The condemnation of the people's idolatry and disobedience is similar to Deuteronomy 12:31, where the Israelites are commanded not to burn their children in the fire to Molech.
5 Jeremiah 7:1-20 → Matthew 23:1-36 The condemnation of the people's empty rituals and outward show of religiosity is similar to Matthew 23:1-36, where Jesus condemns the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and outward show of religiosity.
6 Jeremiah 7:23 → John 14:15 The command to obey God's voice and walk in His ways is reminiscent of John 14:15, where Jesus commands His disciples to keep His commandments if they love Him.
7 Jeremiah 7:29 → Romans 11:1-36 The lament over the nation's spiritual decay is similar to Romans 11:1-36, where Paul laments over the spiritual decay of the Jewish people and calls them to return to the Lord.
8 Jeremiah 7:31 → 1 Corinthians 10:1-22 The condemnation of the people's idolatry and disobedience is similar to 1 Corinthians 10:1-22, where Paul warns the Corinthians against idolatry and disobedience, and calls them to obey God's commands.
9 Jeremiah 7:1-20 → Hebrews 8:1-13 The command to obey God's voice and walk in His ways is reminiscent of Hebrews 8:1-13, where the author of Hebrews calls the readers to obey God's commands and to trust in the new covenant established by Jesus Christ.
10 Jeremiah 7:23 → Revelation 21:1-27 The promise of restoration and blessing is similar to Revelation 21:1-27, where God promises to create a new heaven and a new earth, and to dwell with His people forever.

Sermons on Jeremiah 7

SermonDescription
Derek Prince Healing - Part 1 by Derek Prince In this sermon, Don Basham discusses the importance of faith in God's faithfulness rather than relying on our own abilities or experiences. He emphasizes that faith is ultimately t
David Wilkerson The Awesome Voice of God by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of hearing and heeding the voice of God. He highlights the story of the Israelites at Mount Sinai, where God spoke to them in
A.W. Tozer Amend Your Ways by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving God and our souls a chance to breathe by prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly distractions. He highlights ho
Carter Conlon Gold Tried in the Fire by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the preacher expresses his deep concern and disappointment with the modern gospel being preached on television. He believes that it is a disgrace to the name of Jes
A.W. Tozer How to Continue Steadfastly by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the speaker encourages people to take time off and reflect on God, nature, and themselves. He emphasizes the importance of not living in a constant rush and urges p
David Wilkerson Sermon Proof Christians by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker begins by directing the congregation to raise their hands and guiding them to a place of prayer. He quotes a verse from the Bible about prayer and suppl
David Wilkerson The Moment of Truth Has Come by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and eliminating idols from our lives in order to receive God's blessings. He shares his personal struggle with
Jonathan Edwards Wrong Revival Principles - Part 4 by Jonathan Edwards The sermon transcript discusses the natural inclinations that humans have and how they can be regulated in a way that is not sinful or selfish. It emphasizes the importance of pare
John Calvin Necessity of Reforming the Church 3 of 4 (1544) by John Calvin In this sermon, the speaker addresses the primacy of the Romish sea, which refers to the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. The speaker acknowledges that the adversaries of th
Dwight Pentecost (Gifts) Gift of the Prophet by Dwight Pentecost In this sermon, the preacher discusses the role of prophets in the Old Testament and their responsibility to communicate God's message to the people of Israel. He highlights the ex

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Jeremiah 7

In this chapter, we see the prophet Jeremiah standing at the gate of the Temple, calling the people to repentance and warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience. The people are commanded to amend their ways and obey God's voice, that it may go well with them. The chapter emphasizes the importance of true worship and obedience to God's commands, and warns against empty rituals and outward show of religiosity. The prophet announces God's judgment on the nation, including the destruction of the Temple and the exile of the people. Despite this judgment, the chapter ends with a message of hope and restoration, promising that if the people return to the Lord, He will bring them back to their homeland and restore them. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord is long-suffering and slow to anger, but He will not always bear with the provocations of a sinful people.' The chapter calls us to examine our own hearts and lives, and to ensure that we are truly worshiping God and obeying His commands. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Importance of Obedience

The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of obedience. This is seen in verses such as Jeremiah 7:23, where God commands the people to obey His voice and walk in His ways.

The Empty Rituals of the People

The chapter condemns the empty rituals and outward show of religiosity that characterized the people's worship, emphasizing that true worship is a matter of the heart (Jeremiah 7:21-28).

The Promise of Restoration

Despite the judgment and destruction announced in the chapter, there is a message of hope and restoration, promising that if the people return to the Lord, He will bring them back to their homeland and restore them (Jeremiah 7:23).

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