Jeremiah 12:17

But if they will not obey, I will utterly pluck up and destroy that nation, saith the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאִ֖ם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִשְׁמָ֑עוּ

H8085

But if they will not obey

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

נָת֥וֹשׁ

H5428

I will utterly

to tear away

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַגּ֥וֹי

H1471

that nation

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

הַה֛וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

נָת֥וֹשׁ

H5428

I will utterly

to tear away

וְאַבֵּ֖ד

and destroy

properly, to wander away, i.e., lose oneself; by implication to perish (causative, destroy)

#10

נְאֻם

H5002

saith

an oracle

#11

יְהוָֽה׃

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Jeremiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Jeremiah.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Jeremiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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Jeremiah