Jeremiah 6:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 6:11
11 Therefore I am full of the fury of the LORD; I am weary with holding in: I will pour it out upon the children abroad, and upon the assembly of young men together: for even the husband with the wife shall be taken, the aged with him that is full of days.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 6 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, faith, redemption. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 6:11
11 Therefore I am full of the fury of the LORD; I am weary with holding in: I will pour it out upon the children abroad, and upon the assembly of young men together: for even the husband with the wife shall be taken, the aged with him that is full of days.
Analysis
Jeremiah describes being 'full of the fury of the LORD' and weary of holding it back. This reveals the prophet's burden: he carries God's message of judgment, which demands proclamation despite opposition. The command 'pour it out' indicates judgment will be comprehensive, affecting all ages ('child in the street' to 'aged with him that is full of days'). The phrase 'husband with the wife' emphasizes that judgment crosses all social relationships. This verse illustrates that God's judgment, when it comes, is thorough and discriminating based on covenant unfaithfulness rather than age, gender, or social status.
Historical Context
The Babylonian conquest affected all segments of Judean society. Archaeological evidence shows widespread destruction of cities and towns, with mass deportation of people from every social class.
Reflection
- What does Jeremiah's weariness in holding back judgment teach about the prophet's role as messenger?
- How should the comprehensive nature of God's judgment affect our understanding of sin's seriousness?
- What is the relationship between God's patience (long-suffering) and the eventual outpouring of His wrath?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Micah 3:8
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 9:21, 20:9