Jeremiah 32:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 32:31
31 For this city hath been to me as a provocation of mine anger and of my fury from the day that they built it even unto this day; that I should remove it from before my face,
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 32 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, creation, fellowship. 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 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 32:31
31 For this city hath been to me as a provocation of mine anger and of my fury from the day that they built it even unto this day; that I should remove it from before my face,
Analysis
This city hath been to me as a provocation of mine anger and of my fury from the day that they built it—A shocking statement: Jerusalem, the City of David, God's chosen dwelling place, has been a source of divine wrath from the day they built it. The Hebrew ka'as (provocation) and chemah (חֵמָה, fury/wrath) are intensified together. This isn't denying Jerusalem's election (Psalm 132:13-14) but acknowledging persistent covenant unfaithfulness even in the holy city.
That I should remove it from before my face (לַהֲסִירָהּ מֵעַל פָּנָי)—Divine presence withdrawal is the ultimate curse. The phrase anticipates the temple's destruction and God's glory departing (Ezekiel 10:18-19). Yet God's stated intention 'to remove it' (using the modal verb) suggests this wasn't His ultimate desire but judicial necessity. The tension between God's elective love and His holy wrath over sin reaches crisis in this verse.
Historical Context
Jerusalem was conquered by David circa 1000 BC and made Israel's capital. Solomon built the temple there (959 BC). Despite this sacred history, the city's inhabitants repeatedly violated covenant, culminating in the abominations described in verses 34-35. In 587 BC, God's patience exhausted, Jerusalem fell.
Reflection
- How does this verse challenge the assumption that God 'owes' protection to Christian nations or institutions?
- What would it mean for God to 'remove' His presence from your life or church?
- Can you identify areas where religious heritage has bred complacency rather than faithfulness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 27:10, 2 Kings 21:16, 23:27, Matthew 23:37