Jeremiah 15:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 15:17
17 I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 15 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, discipleship, love. 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 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 15:17
17 I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation.
Analysis
Jeremiah returns to complaint/prayer: 'O LORD, thou knowest: remember me, and visit me, and revenge me of my persecutors.' The appeal 'thou knowest' assumes God's omniscience of Jeremiah's suffering. Three requests: 'remember me' (don't forget my plight), 'visit me' (intervene on my behalf), 'revenge me of my persecutors' (execute justice). The plea 'take me not away in thy longsuffering' asks that God's patience with persecutors not result in Jeremiah's death before vindication. The final appeal: 'know that for thy sake I have suffered rebuke.' Jeremiah's suffering comes from faithful service, not personal sin. This imprecatory prayer seeks God's justice against those opposing His word.
Historical Context
Jeremiah faced constant persecution: imprisonment, death threats, beatings, and plots against his life from those who rejected his message. His appeals for vindication against persecutors reflect legitimate desire for God's justice.
Reflection
- How should believers understand imprecatory prayers for God's judgment on persecutors?
- What does 'for thy sake I have suffered rebuke' teach about the cost of faithful ministry?
- When is appeal for divine vindication appropriate versus when should we simply bear persecution patiently?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 6:11, 13:17, Psalms 1:1, 102:7, Lamentations 3:28, 2 Corinthians 6:17