Jeremiah 14:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:11
11 Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, hope. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 14:11
11 Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good.
Analysis
God explicitly forbids intercession: 'Then said the LORD unto me, Pray not for this people for their good.' This stunning command reveals that judgment is now fixed. The prohibition against praying 'for their good' indicates that what is coming, though painful, serves God's righteous purposes. This raises profound questions about the limits of intercessory prayer when God has decreed judgment. The Reformed understanding of God's sovereignty includes recognition that His decrees, once established, will not be overturned even by prayer. This doesn't negate prayer's importance but acknowledges its proper boundaries.
Historical Context
This command appears three times in Jeremiah (7:16; 11:14; 14:11), marking stages where judgment became irreversible. Even great intercessors like Moses or Samuel couldn't avert it (Jeremiah 15:1).
Reflection
- How do we understand prayer's relationship to God's sovereign decrees?
- What does it mean when God forbids prayer for certain people or outcomes?
- How should prophetic certainty about coming judgment affect intercessory prayer?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Prayer: Jeremiah 7:16, 11:14