Jeremiah 7:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 7:28
28 But thou shalt say unto them, This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the LORD their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 7 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, grace, righteousness. 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 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 7:28
28 But thou shalt say unto them, This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the LORD their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.
Analysis
The final description: 'But thou shalt say unto them, This is a nation that obeyeth not the voice of the LORD their God, nor receiveth correction: truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth.' This serves as an epitaph for Judah: characterized by disobedience, unteachability, and dishonesty. The phrase 'receiveth not correction' indicates resistant to discipline. Most devastating: 'truth is perished, and is cut off from their mouth'—truth no longer resides in them or comes from them. This describes complete moral and spiritual bankruptcy. When truth perishes from a people, they have lost their fundamental orientation to reality itself.
Historical Context
By Jeremiah's time, false prophets, corrupt priests, and unrighteous kings had created a culture where truth was suppressed and lies accepted. This moral chaos preceded national collapse.
Reflection
- What are the characteristics of a people from whom truth has perished?
- How does resistance to correction accelerate spiritual decline?
- What practices help preserve truth within a community of faith?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Proverbs 1:7
- References God: Zephaniah 3:2
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 32:33