Jeremiah 17:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 17:20
20 And say unto them, Hear ye the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates:
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 17 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, creation, wisdom. 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 17:20
20 And say unto them, Hear ye the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates:
Analysis
Jeremiah's message specifically addresses "kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem"—the three primary groups comprising the covenant community. The repetition emphasizes that God's word applies to everyone without exception. "Hear ye the word of the LORD" is the classic prophetic summons demanding attention and obedience, not mere passive listening.
The phrase "that enter in by these gates" indicates ongoing, repeated action—this applies to all who regularly use these entrances, encompassing the entire population. By addressing kings alongside common citizens, Jeremiah asserts that political authority does not exempt rulers from divine law. Kings remain under God's sovereignty and accountable to His covenant stipulations.
This verse establishes the Reformed principle that all human authority is subordinate to God's word. Magistrates and citizens alike stand under divine judgment. The prophetic word speaks truth to power, calling rulers to account. Christ proclaimed that His kingdom's subjects must hear and obey His voice (John 10:27), and earthly kingdoms will be judged by how they respond to His word (Rev 11:15).
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings often claimed divine status or autonomous authority. Israel's covenant theology radically subordinated royal power to divine law (Deut 17:14-20). Prophets regularly confronted kings—Nathan rebuked David (2 Sam 12), Elijah confronted Ahab (1 Kgs 21), Isaiah counseled Hezekiah (2 Kgs 19-20). Jeremiah's ministry included multiple confrontations with kings Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah, often at personal risk.
Reflection
- How does this passage challenge contemporary attitudes that exempt political leaders from biblical ethical standards?
- In what ways do you need to hear God's word afresh rather than merely listening with familiarity?
- What does it mean for believers to live under dual citizenship—subject to earthly rulers while ultimately accountable to God?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Jeremiah 19:3, 22:2
- Word: Ezekiel 2:7