BibleWare/BibWare.bin/bibref/mhc.exe/JER.TXT

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** Jeremiah was a priest, a native of Anathoth, in the tribe of
Benjamin. He was called to the prophetic office when very young,
about seventy years after the death of Isaiah, and exercised it
for about forty years with great faithfulness, till the sins of
the Jewish nation came to their full measure and destruction
followed. The prophecies of Jeremiah do not stand as they were
delivered. Blayney has endeavoured to arrange them in more
regular order, namely, ch. 1-20; 22; 23; 25; 26; 35; 36; 45; 24;
29; 30; 31; 27; 28; 21; 34; 37; 32; 33; 38; 39; (ver. 15-18,
1-14.) 40-44; 46-52. The general subject of his prophecies is
the idolatry and other sins of the Jews; the judgments by which
they were threatened, with references to their future
restoration and deliverance, and promises of the Messiah. They
are remarkable for plain and faithful reproofs, affectionate
expostulations, and awful warnings.

* Jeremiah's call to the prophetic office. (1-10) A vision of an
almond-tree and of a seething-pot, Divine protection is
promised. (11-19)

#1-10 Jeremiah's early call to the work and office of a prophet
is stated. He was to be a prophet, not to the Jews only, but to
the neighbouring nations. He is still a prophet to the whole
world, and it would be well if they would attend to these
warnings. The Lord who formed us, knows for what particular
services and purposes he intended us. But unless he sanctify us
by his new-creating Spirit, we shall neither be fit for his holy
service on earth, nor his holy happiness in heaven. It becomes
us to have low thoughts of ourselves. Those who are young,
should consider that they are so, and not venture beyond their
powers. But though a sense of our own weakness and insufficiency
should make us go humbly about our work, it should not make us
draw back when God calls us. Those who have messages to deliver
from God, must not fear the face of man. The Lord, by a sign,
gave Jeremiah such a gift as was necessary. God's message should
be delivered in his own words. Whatever wordly wise men or
politicians may think, the safety of kingdoms is decided
according to the purpose and word of God.

#11-19 God gave Jeremiah a view of the destruction of Judah and
Jerusalem by the Chaldeans. The almond-tree, which is more
forward in the spring than any other, represented the speedy
approach of judgments. God also showed whence the intended ruin
should arise. Jeremiah saw a seething-pot boiling, representing
Jerusalem and Judah in great commotion. The mouth or face of the
furnace or hearth, was toward the north; from whence the fire
and fuel were to come. The northern powers shall unite. The
cause of these judgments was the sin of Judah. The whole counsel
of God must be declared. The fear of God is the best remedy
against the fear of man. Better to have all men our enemies than
God our enemy; those who are sure they have God with them, need
not, ought not to fear, whoever is against them. Let us pray
that we may be willing to give up personal interests, and that
nothing may move us from our duty.
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* God expostulates with his people. (1-8) Their revolt beyond
example. (9-13) Guilt the cause of sufferings. (14-19) The sins
of Judah. (20-28) Their false confidence. (29-37)

#1-8 Those who begin well, but do not persevere, will justly be
upbraided with their hopeful and promising beginnings. Those who
desert religion, commonly oppose it more than those who never
knew it. For this they could have no excuse. God's spiritual
Israel must own their obligations to him for safe conduct
through the wilderness of this world, so dangerous to the soul.
Alas, that many, who once appeared devoted to the Lord, so live
that their professions aggravate their crimes! Let us be careful
that we do not lose in zeal and fervency, as we gain knowledge.

#9-13 Before God punishes sinners, he pleads with them, to bring
them to repentance. He pleads with us, what we should plead with
ourselves. Be afraid to think of the wrath and curse which will
be the portion of those who throw themselves out of God's grace
and favour. Grace in Christ is compared to water from a
fountain, it being cooling and refreshing, cleansing and making
fruitful: to living water, because it quickens dead sinners,
revives drooping saints, supports and maintains spiritual life,
and issues in eternal life, and is ever-flowing. To forsake this
Fountain is the first evil; this is done when the people of God
neglect his word and ordinances. They hewed them out broken
cisterns, that could hold no water. Such are the world, and the
things in it; such are the inventions of men when followed and
depended on. Let us, with purpose of heart, cleave to the Lord
only; whither else shall we go? How prone are we to forego the
consolations of the Holy Spirit, for the worthless joys of the
enthusiast and hypocrite!

#14-19 Is Israel a servant? No, they are the seed of Abraham. We
may apply this spiritually: Is the soul of man a slave? No, it
is not; but has sold its own liberty, and enslaved itself to
divers lusts and passions. The Assyrian princes, like lions,
prevailed against Israel. People from Egypt destroyed their
glory and strength. They brought these calamities on themselves
by departing from the Lord. The use and application of this is,
Repent of thy sin, that thy correction may not be thy ruin. What
has a Christian to do in the ways of forbidden pleasure or vain
sinful mirth, or with the pursuits of covetousness and ambition?

#20-28 Notwithstanding all their advantages, Israel had become
like the wild vine that bears poisonous fruit. Men are often as
much under the power of their unbridled desires and their sinful
lusts, as the brute beasts. But the Lord here warns them not to
weary themselves in pursuits which could only bring distress and
misery. As we must not despair of the mercy of God, but believe
that to be sufficient for the pardon of our sins, so neither
must we despair of the grace of God, but believe that it is able
to subdue our corruptions, though ever so strong.

#29-37 The nation had not been wrought upon by the judgements of
God, but sought to justify themselves. The world is, to those
who make it their home and their portion, a wilderness and a
land of darkness; but those who dwell in God, have the lines
fallen to them in pleasant places. Here is the language of
presumptuous sinners. The Jews had long thrown off serious
thoughts of God. How many days of our lives pass without
suitable remembrance of him! The Lord was displeased with their
confidences, and would not prosper them therein. Men employ all
their ingenuity, but cannot find happiness in the way of sin, or
excuse for it. They may shift from one sin to another, but none
ever hardened himself against God, or turned from him, and
prospered.
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* Exhortations to repentance. (1-5) Judah more guilty than
Israel. (6-11) But pardon is promised. (12-20) The children of
Israel express their sorrow and repentance. (21-25)

#1-5 In repentance, it is good to think upon the sins of which
we have been guilty, and the places and companies where they
have been committed. How gently the Lord had corrected them! In
receiving penitents, he is God, and not man. Whatever thou hast
said or done hitherto, wilt thou not from this time apply to me?
Will not this grace of God overcome thee? Now pardon is
proclaimed, wilt thou not take the benefit? They will hope to
find in him the tender compassions of a Father towards a
returning prodigal. They will come to him as the Guide of their
youth: youth needs a guide. Repenting sinners may encourage
themselves that God will not keep his anger to the end. All
God's mercies, in every age, suggest encouragement; and what can
be so desirable for the young, as to have the Lord for their
Father, and the Guide of their youth? Let parents daily direct
their children earnestly to seek this blessing.

#6-11 If we mark the crimes of those who break off from a
religious profession, and the consequences, we see abundant
reason to shun evil ways. It is dreadful to be proved more
criminal than those who have actually perished in their sins;
yet it will be small comfort in everlasting punishment, for them
to know that others were viler than they.

#12-20 See God's readiness to pardon sin, and the blessings
reserved for gospel times. These words were proclaimed toward
the north; to Israel, the ten tribes, captive in Assyria. They
are directed how to return. If we confess our sins, the Lord is
faithful and just to forgive them. These promises are fully to
come to pass in the bringing back the Jews in after-ages. God
will graciously receive those that return to him; and by his
grace, he takes them out from among the rest. The ark of the
covenant was not found after the captivity. The whole of that
dispensation was to be done away, which took place after the
multitude of believers had been greatly increased by the
conversion of the Gentiles, and of the Israelites scattered
among them. A happy state of the church is foretold. He can
teach all to call him Father; but without thorough change of
heart and life, no man can be a child of God, and we have no
security for not departing from Him.

#21-25 Sin is turning aside to crooked ways. And forgetting the
Lord our God is at the bottom of all sin. By sin we bring
ourselves into trouble. The promise to those that return is, God
will heal their backslidings, by his pardoning mercy, his
quieting peace, and his renewing grace. They come devoting
themselves to God. They come disclaiming all expectations of
relief and succour from any but the Lord. Therefore they come
depending upon him only. He is the Lord, and he only can save.
It points out the great salvation from sin Jesus Christ wrought
out for us. They come justifying God in their troubles, and
judging themselves for their sins. True penitents learn to call
sin shame, even the sin they have been most pleased with. True
penitents learn to call sin death and ruin, and to charge upon
it all they suffer. While men harden themselves in sin, contempt
and misery are their portion: for he that covereth his sins
shall not prosper, but he that confesseth and forsaketh them,
shall find mercy.
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* Exhortations and promises. (1-2) Judah exhorted to repentance.
(3-4) Judgements denounced. (5-18) The approaching ruin of
Judah. (19-31)

#1,2 The first two verses should be read with the last chapter.
Sin must be put away out of the heart, else it is not put away
out of God's sight, for the heart is open before him.

#3,4 An unhumbled heart is like ground untilled. It is ground
which may be improved; it is our ground let out to us; but it is
fallow; it is over-grown with thorns and weeds, the natural
product of the corrupt heart. Let us entreat the Lord to create
in us a clean heart, and to renew a right spirit within us; for
except a man be born again, he cannot enter into the kingdom of
heaven.

#5-18 The fierce conqueror of the neighbouring nations was to
make Judah desolate. The prophet was afflicted to see the people
lulled into security by false prophets. The approach of the
enemy is described. Some attention was paid in Jerusalem to
outward reformation; but it was necessary that their hearts
should be washed, in the exercise of true repentance and faith,
from the love and pollution of sin. When lesser calamities do
not rouse sinners and reform nations, sentence will be given
against them. The Lord's voice declares that misery is
approaching, especially against wicked professors of the gospel;
when it overtakes them, it will be plainly seen that the fruit
of wickedness is bitter, and the end is fatal.

#19-31 The prophet had no pleasure in delivering messages of
wrath. He is shown in a vision the whole land in confusion.
Compared with what it was, every thing is out of order; but the
ruin of the Jewish nation would not be final. Every end of our
comforts is not a full end. Though the Lord may correct his
people very severely, yet he will not cast them off. Ornaments
and false colouring would be of no avail. No outward privileges
or profession, no contrivances would prevent destruction. How
wretched the state of those who are like foolish children in the
concerns of their souls! Whatever we are ignorant of, may the
Lord make of good understanding in the ways of godliness. As sin
will find out the sinner, so sorrow will, sooner or later, find
out the secure.
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* The Jews' profession of religion was hypocritical. (1-9) The
cruel proceedings of their enemies. (10-18) Their apostacy and
idolatry. (19-31)

#1-9 None could be found who behaved as upright and godly men.
But the Lord saw the true character of the people through all
their disguises. The poor were ignorant, and therefore they were
wicked. What can be expected but works of darkness, from people
that know nothing of God and religion? There are God's poor,
who, notwithstanding poverty, know the way of the Lord, walk in
it, and do their duty; but these were willingly ignorant, and
their ignorance would not be their excuse. The rich were
insolent and haughty, and the abuse of God's favours made their
sin worse.

#10-18 Multitudes are ruined by believing that God will not be
so strict as his word says he will; by this artifice Satan undid
mankind. Sinners are not willing to own any thing to be God's
word, that tends to part them from, or to disquiet them in,
their sins. Mocking and misusing the Lord's messengers, filled
the measure of their iniquity. God can bring trouble upon us
from places and causes very remote. He has mercy in store for
his people, therefore will set bounds to this desolating
judgment. Let us not overlook the "nevertheless," ver. #18|.
This is the Lord's covenant with Israel. He thereby proclaims
his holiness, and his utter displeasure against sin while
sparing the sinner, #Ps 89:30-35|.

#19-31 Unhumbled hearts are ready to charge God with being
unjust in their afflictions. But they may read their sin in
their punishment. If men will inquire wherefore the Lord doeth
hard things unto them, let them think of their sins. The
restless waves obeyed the Divine decree, that they should not
pass the sandy shores, which were as much a restraint as lofty
mountains; but they burst all restraints of God's law, and were
wholly gone into wickedness. Neither did they consider their
interest. While the Lord, year after year, reserves to us the
appointed weeks of harvest, men live on his bounty; yet they
transgress against him. Sin deprives us of God's blessings; it
makes the heaven as brass, and the earth as iron. Certainly the
things of this world are not the best things; and we are not to
think, that, because evil men prosper, God allows their
practices. Though sentence against evil works is not executed
speedily, it will be executed. Shall I not visit for these
things? This speaks the certainty and the necessity of God's
judgments. Let those who walk in bad ways consider that an end
will come, and there will be bitterness in the latter end.
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* The invasion of Judea. (1-8) The justice of God's proceedings.
(9-17) All methods used to amend them had been without success.
(18-30)

#1-8 Whatever methods are used, it is vain to contend with God's
judgments. The more we indulge in the pleasures of this life,
the more we unfit ourselves for the troubles of this life. The
Chaldean army shall break in upon the land of Judah, and in a
little time devour all. The day is coming, when those careless
and secure in sinful ways will be visited. It is folly to trifle
when we have eternal salvation to work out, and the enemies of
that salvation to fight against. But they were thus eager, not
that they might fulfil God's counsels, but that they might fill
their own treasures; yet God thereby served his own purposes.
The corrupt heart of man, in its natural state, casts out evil
thoughts, just as a fountain casts out her waters. It is always
flowing, yet always full. The God of mercy is loth to depart
even from a provoking people, and is earnest with them, that by
repentance and reformation, they may prevent things from coming
to extremity.

#9-17 When the Lord arises to take vengeance, no sinners of any
age or rank, or of either sex escape. They were set upon the
world, and wholly carried away by the love of it. If we judge of
this sin by God's word, we find multitudes in every station and
rank given up to it. Those are to be reckoned our worst and most
dangerous enemies, who flatter us in a sinful way. Oh that men
would be wise for their souls! Ask for the old paths; the way of
godliness and righteousness has always been the way God has
owned and blessed. Ask for the old paths set forth by the
written word of God. When you have found the good way, go on in
it, you will find abundant recompence at your journey's end. But
if men will not obey the voice of God and flee to his appointed
Refuge, it will plainly appear at the day of judgment, that they
are ruined because they reject God's word.

#18-30 God rejects their outward services, as worthless to atone
for their sins. Sacrifice and incense were to direct them to a
Mediator; but when offered to purchase a license to go on in
sin, they provoke God. The sins of God's professing people make
them an easy prey to their enemies. They dare not show
themselves. Saints may rejoice in hope of God's mercies, though
they see them only in the promise: sinners must mourn for fear
of God's judgments, though they see them only in the
threatenings. They are the worst of revolters, and are all
corrupters. Sinners soon become tempters. They are compared to
ore supposed to have good metal in it, but which proves all
dross. Nothing will prevail to part between them and their sins.
Reprobate silver shall they be called, useless and worthless.
When warnings, corrections, rebukes, and all means of grace,
leave men unrenewed, they will be left, as rejected of God, to
everlasting misery. Let us pray, then, that we may be refined by
the Lord, as silver is refined.
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* Confidence in the temple is vain. (1-16) The provocation by
persisting in idolatry. (17-20) God justifies his dealings with
them. (21-28) And threatens vengeance. (29-34)

#1-16 No observances, professions, or supposed revelations, will
profit, if men do not amend their ways and their doings. None
can claim an interest in free salvation, who allow themselves in
the practice of known sin, or live in the neglect of known duty.
They thought that the temple they profaned would be their
protection. But all who continue in sin because grace has
abounded, or that grace may abound, make Christ the minister of
sin; and the cross of Christ, rightly understood, forms the most
effectual remedy to such poisonous sentiments. The Son of God
gave himself for our transgressions, to show the excellence of
the Divine law, and the evil of sin. Never let us think we may
do wickedness without suffering for it.

#17-20 The Jews took pride in showing zeal for their idols. Let
us learn to be earnest in the service of our God, even from this
bad example. Let us think it an honour to be employed in any
work for God. Let us be as diligent ourselves, and as careful to
teach our children the truths of God, as many are to teach the
mysteries of iniquity. The direct tendency of this sin is malice
against God, but it will hurt themselves. And they shall find
there is no escaping. God's wrath is fire unquenchable.

#21-28 God shows that obedience was required of them. That which
God commanded was, Hearken diligently to the voice of the Lord
thy God. The promise is very encouraging. Let God's will be
your rule, and his favour shall be your happiness. God was
displeased with disobedience. We understand the gospel as little
as the Jews understood the law, if we think that even the
sacrifice of Christ lessens our obligation to obey.

#29-34 In token both of sorrow and of slavery, Jerusalem must be
degraded, and separated from God, as she had been separated to
him. The heart is the place in which God has chosen to put his
name; but if sin has the innermost and uppermost place there, we
pollute the temple of the Lord. The destruction of Jerusalem
appears here very terrible. The slain shall be many; they having
made it the place of their sin. Evil pursues sinners, even after
death. Those who will not, by the grace of God, be cured of vain
mirth, shall, by the justice of God, be deprived of all mirth.
How many ruin their health and property without complaining,
when engaged in Satan's service! May we learn to relish holy
joys, and to sit loose to all others though lawful.
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* The remains of the dead exposed. (1-3) The stupidity of the
people, compared with the instinct of the brute creation. (4-13)
The alarm of the invasion, and lamentation. (14-22)

#1-3 Though no real hurt can be done to a dead body, yet
disgrace to the remains of wicked persons may alarm those yet
alive; and this reminds us that the Divine justice and
punishments extend beyond the grave. Whatever befalls us here,
let us humble ourselves before God, and seek his mercy.

#4-13 What brought this ruin? 1. The people would not attend to
reason; they would not act in the affairs of their souls with
common prudence. Sin is backsliding; it is going back from the
way that leads to life, to that which leads to destruction. 2.
They would not attend to the warning of conscience. They did not
take the first step towards repentance: true repentance begins
in serious inquiry as to what we have done, from conviction that
we have done amiss. 3. They would not attend to the ways of
providence, nor understand the voice of God in them, ver. #7|.
They know not how to improve the seasons of grace, which God
affords. Many boast of their religious knowledge, yet, unless
taught by the Spirit of God, the instinct of brutes is a more
sure guide than their supposed wisdom. 4. They would not attend
to the written word. Many enjoy abundance of the means of grace,
have Bibles and ministers, but they have them in vain. They will
soon be ashamed of their devices. The pretenders to wisdom were
the priests and the false prophets. They flattered people in
sin, and so flattered them into destruction, silencing their
fears and complaints with, All is well. Selfish teachers may
promise peace when there is no peace; and thus men encourage
each other in committing evil; but in the day of visitation they
will have no refuge to flee unto.

#14-22 At length they begin to see the hand of God lifted up.
And when God appears against us, every thing that is against us
appears formidable. As salvation only can be found in the Lord,
so the present moment should be seized. Is there no medicine
proper for a sick and dying kingdom? Is there no skilful,
faithful hand to apply the medicine? Yes, God is able to help
and to heal them. If sinners die of their wounds, their blood is
upon their own heads. The blood of Christ is balm in Gilead, his
Spirit is the Physician there, all-sufficient; so that the
people may be healed, but will not. Thus men die unpardoned and
unchanged, for they will not come to Christ to be saved.
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* The people are corrected, Jerusalem is destroyed. (1-11) The
captives suffer in a foreign land. (12-22) God's
loving-kindness, He threatens the enemies of his people. (23-26)

#1-11 Jeremiah wept much, yet wished he could weep more, that he
might rouse the people to a due sense of the hand of God. But
even the desert, without communion with God, through Christ
Jesus, and the influences of the Holy Spirit, must be a place
for temptation and evil; while, with these blessings, we may
live in holiness in crowded cities. The people accustomed their
tongues to lies. So false were they, that a brother could not be
trusted. In trading and bargaining they said any thing for their
own advantage, though they knew it to be false. But God marked
their sin. Where no knowledge of God is, what good can be
expected? He has many ways of turning a fruitful land into
barrenness for the wickedness of those that dwell therein.

#12-22 In Zion the voice of joy and praise used to be heard,
while the people kept close to God; but sin has altered the
sound, it is now the voice of lamentation. Unhumbled hearts
lament their calamity, but not their sin, which is the cause of
it. Let the doors be shut ever so fast, death steals upon us. It
enters the palaces of princes and great men, though stately,
strongly built, and guarded. Nor are those more safe that are
abroad; death cuts off even the children from without, and the
young men from the streets. Hearken to the word of the Lord, and
mourn with godly sorrow. This alone can bring true comfort; and
it can turn the heaviest afflictions into precious mercies.

#23-26 In this world of sin and sorrow, ending soon in death and
judgement, how foolish for men to glory in their knowledge,
health, strength, riches, or in any thing which leaves them
under the dominion of sin and the wrath of God! and of which an
account must hereafter be rendered; it will but increase their
misery. Those are the true Israel who worship God in the Spirit,
rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
Let us prize the distinction which comes from God, and will last
for ever. Let us seek it diligently.
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* The absurdity of idolatry. (1-16) Destruction denounced
against Jerusalem. (17-25)

#1-16 The prophet shows the glory of Israel's God, and exposes
the folly of idolaters. Charms and other attempts to obtain
supernatural help, or to pry into futurity, are copied from the
wicked customs of the heathen. Let us stand in awe, and not dare
provoke God, by giving that glory to another which is due to him
alone. He is ready to forgive, and save all who repent and
believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ. Faith learns these
blessed truths from the word of God; but all knowledge not from
that source, leads to doctrines of vanity.

#17-25 The Jews who continued in their own land, felt secure.
But, sooner or later, sinners will find all things as the word
of God has declared, and that its threatenings are not empty
terrors. Submission will support the believer under every grief
allotted to him; but what can render the load of Divine
vengeance easy to be borne by those who fall under it in sullen
despair? Those cannot expect to prosper, who do not, by faith
and prayer, take God with them in all their ways. The report of
the enemy's approach was very dreadful. Yet the designs which
men lay deep, and think well formed, are dashed to pieces in a
moment. Events are often overruled, so as to be quite contrary
to what we intended and expected. If the Lord has directed our
steps into the ways of peace and righteousness, let us entreat
him to enable us to walk therein. Say not, Lord, do not correct
me; but, Lord, do not correct me in anger. We may bear the smart
of God's rod, but we cannot bear the weight of his wrath. Those
who restrain prayer, prove that they know not God; for those who
know him will seek him, and seek his favour. If even severe
corrections lead sinners to be convinced of wholesome truths,
they will have abundant cause for gratitude. And they will then
humble themselves before the Lord.
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* The disobedient Jews reproved. (1-10) Their utter ruin.
(11-17) The people would be destroyed who sought the prophet's
life. (18-23)

#1-10 God never promised to bestow blessings on his rational
creatures, while they persist in wilful disobedience. Pardon and
acceptance are promised freely to all believers; but no man can
be saved who does not obey the command of God to repent, to
believe in Christ, to separate from sin and the world, to choose
self-denial and newness of life. In general, men will hearken to
those who speak of doctrines, promises, and privileges; but when
duties are mentioned, they will not bend their ear.

#11-17 Evil pursues sinners, and entangles them in snares, out
of which they cannot free themselves. Now, in their distress,
their many gods and many altars stand them in no stead. And
those whose own prayers will not be heard, cannot expect benefit
from the prayers of others. Their profession of religion shall
prove of no use. When trouble came upon them, they made this
their confidence, but God has rejected it. His altar shall yield
them no satisfaction. The remembrance of God's former favours to
them shall be no comfort under troubles; and his remembrance of
them shall be no argument for their relief. Every sin against
the Lord is a sin against ourselves, and so it will be found
sooner or later.

#18-23 The prophet Jeremiah tells much concerning himself, the
times he lived in being very troublesome. Those of his own city
plotted how they might cause his death. They thought to end his
days, but he outlived most of his enemies; they thought to blast
his memory, but it lives to this day, and will be blessed while
time lasts. God knows all the secret designs of his and his
people's enemies, and can, when he pleases, make them known.
God's justice is a terror to the wicked, but a comfort to the
godly. When we are wronged, we have a God to commit our cause
to, and it is our duty to commit it to him. We should also look
well to our own spirits, that we are not overcome with evil, but
that by patient continuance in praying for our enemies, and in
kindness to them, we may overcome evil with good.
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* Jeremiah complains of the prosperity of the wicked. (1-6) The
heavy judgments to come upon the nation. (7-13) Divine mercy to
them, and even to the nations around. (14-17)

#1-6 When we are most in the dark concerning God's
dispensations, we must keep up right thoughts of God, believing
that he never did the least wrong to any of his creatures. When
we find it hard to understand any of his dealings with us, or
others, we must look to general truths as our first principles,
and abide by them: the Lord is righteous. The God with whom we
have to do, knows how our hearts are toward him. He knows both
the guile of the hypocrite and the sincerity of the upright.
Divine judgments would pull the wicked out of their pasture as
sheep for the slaughter. This fruitful land was turned into
barrenness for the wickedness of those that dwelt therein. The
Lord reproved the prophet. The opposition of the men of Anathoth
was not so formidable as what he must expect from the rulers of
Judah. Our grief that there should be so much evil is often
mixed with peevishness on account of the trials it occasions us.
And in this our favoured day, and under our trifling
difficulties, let us consider how we should behave, if called to
sufferings like those of saints in former ages.

#7-13 God's people had been the dearly-beloved of his soul,
precious in his sight, but they acted so, that he gave them up
to their enemies. Many professing churches become like speckled
birds, presenting a mixture of religion and the world, with its
vain fashions, pursuits, and pollutions. God's people are as men
wondered at, as a speckled bird; but this people had by their
own folly made themselves so; and the beasts and birds are
called to prey upon them. The whole land would be made desolate.
But until the judgments were actually inflicted, none of the
people would lay the warning to heart. When God's hand is lifted
up, and men will not see, they shall be made to feel. Silver and
gold shall not profit in the day of the Lord's anger. And the
efforts of sinners to escape misery, without repentance and
works answerable thereto, will end in confusion.

#14-17 The Lord would plead the cause of his people against
their evil neighbours. Yet he would afterwards show mercy to
those nations, when they should learn true religion. This seems
to look forward to the times when the fulness of the Gentiles
shall come in. Those who would have their lot with God's people,
and a last end like theirs, must learn their ways, and walk in
them.
$-$-$- JER:13

* The glory of the Jews should be marred. (1-11) All ranks
should suffer misery, An earnest exhortation to repentance.
(12-17) An awful message to Jerusalem and its king. (18-27)

#1-11 It was usual with the prophets to teach by signs. And we
have the explanation, ver. #9-11|. The people of Israel had been
to God as this girdle. He caused them to cleave to him by the
law he gave them, the prophets he sent among them, and the
favours he showed them. They had by their idolatries and sins
buried themselves in foreign earth, mingled among the nations,
and were so corrupted that they were good for nothing. If we are
proud of learning, power, and outward privileges, it is just
with God to wither them. The minds of men should be awakened to
a sense of their guilt and danger; yet nothing will be effectual
without the influences of the Spirit.

#12-17 As the bottle was fitted to hold the wine, so the sins of
the people made them vessels of wrath, fitted for the judgments
of God; with which they should be filled till they caused each
other's destruction. The prophet exhorts them to give glory to
God, by confessing their sins, humbling themselves in
repentance, and returning to his service. Otherwise they would
be carried into other countries in all the darkness of idolatry
and wickedness. All misery, witnessed or foreseen, will affect a
feeling mind, but the pious heart must mourn most over the
afflictions of the Lord's flock.

#18-27 Here is a message sent to king Jehoiakim, and his queen.
Their sorrows would be great indeed. Do they ask, Wherefore come
these things upon us? Let them know, it is for their obstinacy
in sin. We cannot alter the natural colour of the skin; and so
is it morally impossible to reclaim and reform these people. Sin
is the blackness of the soul; it is the discolouring of it; we
were shapen in it, so that we cannot get clear of it by any
power of our own. But Almighty grace is able to change the
Ethiopian's skin. Neither natural depravity, nor strong habits
of sin, form an obstacle to the working of God, the new-creating
Spirit. The Lord asks of Jerusalem, whether she is determined
not be made clean. If any poor slave of sin feels that he could
as soon change his nature as master his headstrong lusts, let
him not despair; for things impossible to men are possible with
God. Let us then seek help from Him who is mighty to save.
$-$-$- JER:14

* A drought upon the land of Judah. (1-7) A confession of sin in
the name of the people. (8-9) The Divine purpose to punish is
declared. (10-16) The people supplicate. (17-22)

#1-9 The people were in tears. But it was rather the cry of
their trouble, and of their sin, than of their prayer. Let us be
thankful for the mercy of water, that we may not be taught to
value it by feeling the want of it. See what dependence
husbandmen have upon the Divine providence. They cannot plough
nor sow in hope, unless God water their furrows. The case even
of the wild beasts was very pitiable. The people are not forward
to pray, but the prophet prays for them. Sin is humbly
confessed. Our sins not only accuse us, but answer against us.
Our best pleas in prayer are those fetched from the glory of
God's own name. We should dread God's departure, more than the
removal of our creature-comforts. He has given Israel his word
to hope in. It becomes us in prayer to show ourselves more
concerned for God's glory than for our own comfort. And if we
now return to the Lord, he will save us to the glory of his
grace.

#10-16 The Lord calls the Jews "this people," not "his people."
They had forsaken his service, therefore he would punish them
according to their sins. He forbade Jeremiah to plead for them.
The false prophets were the most criminal. The Lord pronounces
condemnation on them; but as the people loved to have it so,
they were not to escape judgments. False teachers encourage men
to expect peace and salvation, without repentance, faith,
conversion, and holiness of life. But those who believe a lie
must not plead if for an excuse. They shall feel what they say
they will not fear.

#17-22 Jeremiah acknowledged his own sins, and those of the
people, but pleaded with the Lord to remember his covenant. In
their distress none of the idols of the Gentiles could help
them, nor could the heavens give rain of themselves. The Lord
will always have a people to plead with him at his mercy-seat.
He will heal every truly repenting sinner. Should he not see fit
to hear our prayers on behalf of our guilty land, he will
certainly bless with salvation all who confess their sins and
seek his mercy.
$-$-$- JER:15

* The destruction of the wicked described. (1-9) The prophet
laments such messages, and is reproved. (10-14) He supplicates
pardon, and is promised protection. (15-21)

#1-9 The Lord declares that even Moses and Samuel must have
pleaded in vain. The putting of this as a case, though they
should stand before him, shows that they do not, and that saints
in heaven do not pray for saints on earth. The Jews were
condemned to different kinds of misery by the righteous judgment
of God, and the remnant would be driven away, like the chaff,
into captivity. Then was the populous city made desolate. Bad
examples and misused authority often produce fatal effects, even
after men are dead, or have repented of their crimes: this
should make all greatly dread being the occasion of sin in
others.

#10-14 Jeremiah met with much contempt and reproach, when they
ought to have blessed him, and God for him. It is a great and
sufficient support to the people of God, that however
troublesome their way may be, it shall be well with them in
their latter end. God turns to the people. Shall the most hardy
and vigorous of their efforts be able to contend with the
counsel of God, or with the army of the Chaldeans? Let them hear
their doom. The enemy will treat the prophet well. But the
people who had great estates would be used hardly. All parts of
the country had added to the national guilt; and let each take
shame to itself.

#15-21 It is matter of comfort that we have a God, to whose
knowledge of all things we may appeal. Jeremiah pleads with God
for mercy and relief against his enemies, persecutors, and
slanderers. It will be a comfort to God's ministers, when men
despise them, if they have the testimony of their own
consciences. But he complains, that he found little pleasure in
his work. Some good people lose much of the pleasantness of
religion by the fretfulness and uneasiness of their natural
temper, which they indulge. The Lord called the prophet to cease
from his distrust, and to return to his work. If he attended
thereto, he might be assured the Lord would deliver him from his
enemies. Those who are with God, and faithful to him, he will
deliver from trouble or carry through it. Many things appear
frightful, which do not at all hurt a real believer in Christ.
$-$-$- JER:16

* Prohibitions given to the prophet. (1-9) The justice of God in
these judgments. (10-13) Future restoration of the Jews, and the
conversion of the Gentiles. (14-21)

#1-9 The prophet must conduct himself as one who expected to see
his country ruined very shortly. In the prospect of sad times,
he is to abstain from marriage, mourning for the dead, and
pleasure. Those who would convince others of the truths of God,
must make it appear by their self-denial, that they believe it
themselves. Peace, inward and outward, family and public, is
wholly the work of God, and from his loving-kindness and mercy.
When He takes his peace from any people, distress must follow.
There may be times when it is proper to avoid things otherwise
our duty; and we should always sit loose to the pleasures and
concerns of this life.

#10-13 Here seems to be the language of those who quarrel at the
word of God, and instead of humbling and condemning themselves,
justify themselves, as though God did them wrong. A plain and
full answer is given. They were more obstinate in sin than their
fathers, walking every one after the devices of his heart. Since
they will not hearken, they shall be hurried away into a far
country, a land they know not. If they had God's favour, that
would make even the land of their captivity pleasant.

#14-21 The restoration from the Babylonish captivity would be
remembered in place of the deliverance from Egypt; it also
typified spiritual redemption, and the future deliverance of the
church from antichristian oppression. But none of the sins of
sinners can be hidden from God, or shall be overlooked by him.
He will find out and raise up instruments of his wrath, that
shall destroy the Jews, by fraud like fishers, by force like
hunters. The prophet, rejoicing at the hope of mercy to come,
addressed the Lord as his strength and refuge. The deliverance
out of captivity shall be a figure of the great salvation to be
wrought by the Messiah. The nations have often known the power
of Jehovah in his wrath; but they shall know him as the strength
of his people, and their refuge in time of trouble.
$-$-$- JER:17

* The fatal consequences of the idolatry of the Jews. (1-4) The
happiness of the man that trusts in God; the end of the opposite
character. (5-11) The malice of the prophet's enemies. (12-18)
The observance of the sabbath. (19-27)

#1-4 The sins which men commit make little impression on their
minds, yet every sin is marked in the book of God; they are all
so graven upon the table of the heart, that they will all be
remembered by the conscience. That which is graven in the heart
will become plain in the life; men's actions show the desires
and purposes of their hearts. What need we have to humble
ourselves before God, who are so vile in his sight! How should
we depend on his mercy and grace, begging of God to search and
prove us; not to suffer us to be deceived by our own hearts, but
to create in us a clean and holy nature by his Spirit!

#5-11 He who puts confidence in man, shall be like the heath in
a desert, a naked tree, a sorry shrub, the product of barren
ground, useless and worthless. Those who trust to their own
righteousness and strength, and think they can do without
Christ, make flesh their arm, and their souls cannot prosper in
graces or comforts. Those who make God their Hope, shall
flourish like a tree always green, whose leaf does not wither.
They shall be fixed in peace and satisfaction of mind; they
shall not be anxious in a year of drought. Those who make God
their Hope, have enough in him to make up the want of all
creature-comforts. They shall not cease from yielding fruit in
holiness and good works. The heart, the conscience of man, in
his corrupt and fallen state, is deceitful above all things. It
calls evil good, and good evil; and cries peace to those to whom
it does not belong. Herein the heart is desperately wicked; it
is deadly, it is desperate. The case is bad indeed, if the
conscience, which should set right the errors of other
faculties, is a leader in the delusion. We cannot know our own
hearts, nor what they will do in an hour of temptation. Who can
understand his errors? Much less can we know the hearts of
others, or depend upon them. He that believes God's testimony in
this matter, and learns to watch his own heart, will find this
is a correct, though a sad picture, and learns many lessons to
direct his conduct. But much in our own hearts and in the hearts
of others, will remain unknown. Yet whatever wickedness there is
in the heart, God sees it. Men may be imposed upon, but God
cannot be deceived. He that gets riches, and not by right,
though he may make them his hope, never shall have joy of them.
This shows what vexation it is to a worldly man at death, that
he must leave his riches behind; but though the wealth will not
follow to another world, guilt will, and everlasting torment.
The rich man takes pains to get an estate, and sits brooding
upon it, but never has any satisfaction in it; by sinful courses
it comes to nothing. Let us be wise in time; what we get, let us
get it honestly; and what we have, use it charitably, that we
may be wise for eternity.

#12-18 The prophet acknowledges the favour of God in setting up
religion. There is fulness of comfort in God, overflowing,
ever-flowing fulness, like a fountain. It is always fresh and
clear, like spring-water, while the pleasures of sin are
puddle-waters. He prays to God for healing, saving mercy. He
appeals to God concerning his faithful discharge of the office
to which he was called. He humbly begs that God would own and
protect him in the work to which he had plainly called him.
Whatever wounds or diseases we find to be in our hearts and
consciences, let us apply to the Lord to heal us, to save us,
that our souls may praise his name. His hands can bind up the
troubled conscience, and heal the broken heart; he can cure the
worst diseases of our nature.

#19-27 The prophet was to lay before the rulers and the people
of Judah, the command to keep holy the sabbath day. Let them
strictly observe the fourth command. If they obeyed this word,
their prosperity should be restored. It is a day of rest, and
must not be made a day of labour, unless in cases of necessity.
Take heed, watch against the profanation of the sabbath. Let not
the soul be burdened with the cares of this world on sabbath
days. The streams of religion run deep or shallow, according as
the banks of the sabbath are kept up or neglected. The degree of
strictness with which this ordinance is observed, or the neglect
shown towards it, is a good test to find the state of spiritual
religion in any land. Let all; by their own example, by
attention to their families, strive to check this evil, that
national prosperity may be preserved, and, above all, that souls
may be saved.
$-$-$- JER:18

* God's power over his creatures is represented by the potter.
(1-10) The Jews exhorted to repentance, and judgments foretold.
(11-17) The prophet appeals to God. (18-23)

#1-10 While Jeremiah looks upon the potter's work, God darts
into his mind two great truths. God has authority, and power, to
form and fashion kingdoms and nations as he pleases. He may
dispose of us as he thinks fit; and it would be as absurd for us
to dispute this, as for the clay to quarrel with the potter. But
he always goes by fixed rules of justice and goodness. When God
is coming against us in judgments, we may be sure it is for our
sins; but sincere conversion from the evil of sin will prevent
the evil of punishment, as to persons, and to families, and
nations.

#11-17 Sinners call it liberty to live at large; whereas for a
man to be a slave to his lusts, is the very worst slavery. They
forsook God for idols. When men are parched with heat, and meet
with cooling, refreshing streams, they use them. In these things
men will not leave a certainty for an uncertainty; but Israel
left the ancient paths appointed by the Divine law. They walked
not in the highway, in which they might travel safely, but in a
way in which they must stumble: such was the way of idolatry,
and such is the way of iniquity. This made their land desolate,
and themselves miserable. Calamities may be borne, if God smile
upon us when under them; but if he is displeased, and refuses
his help, we are undone. Multitudes forget the Lord and his
Christ, and wander from the ancient paths, to walk in ways of
their own devising. But what will they do in the day of
judgment!

#18-23 When the prophet called to repentance, instead of obeying
the call, the people devised devices against him. Thus do
sinners deal with the great Intercessor, crucifying him afresh,
and speaking against him on earth, while his blood is speaking
for them in heaven. But the prophet had done his duty to them;
and the same will be our rejoicing in a day of evil.
$-$-$- JER:19

* By the type of breaking an earthen vessel, Jeremiah is to
predict the destruction of Judah.

#1-9 The prophet must give notice of ruin coming upon Judah and
Jerusalem. Both rulers and ruled must attend to it. That place
which holiness made the joy of the whole earth, sin made the
reproach and shame of the whole earth. There is no fleeing from
God's justice, but by fleeing to his mercy.

#10-15 The potter's vessel, after it is hardened, can never be
pieced again when it is broken. And as the bottle was broken, so
shall Judah and Jerusalem be broken by the Chaldeans. No human
hand can repair it; but if they return to the Lord he will heal.
As they filled Tophet with the slain sacrificed to their idols,
so will God fill the whole city with the slain that shall fall
as sacrifices to his justice. Whatever men may think, God will
appear as terrible against sin and sinners as the Scriptures
state; nor shall the unbelief of men make his promise or his
threatenings of no effect. The obstinacy of sinners in sinful
ways, is their own fault; if they are deaf to the word of God,
it is because they have stopped their ears. We have need to pray
that God, by his grace, would deliver us from hardness of heart,
and contempt of his word and commandments.
$-$-$- JER:20

* The doom of Pashur, who ill-treated the prophet. (1-6)
Jeremiah complains of hard usage. (7-13) He regrets his ever
having been born. (14-18)

#1-6 Pashur smote Jeremiah, and put him in the stocks. Jeremiah
was silent till God put a word into his mouth. To confirm this,
Pashur has a name given him, "Fear on every side." It speaks a
man not only in distress, but in despair; not only in danger,
but in fear on every side. The wicked are in great fear where no
fear is, for God can make the most daring sinner a terror to
himself. And those who will not hear of their faults from God's
prophets, shall be made to hear them from their consciences.
Miserable is the man thus made a terror to himself. His friends
shall fail him. God lets him live miserably, that he may be a
monument of Divine justice.

#7-13 The prophet complains of the insult and injury he
experienced. But ver. #7| may be read, Thou hast persuaded me,
and I was persuaded. Thou wast stronger than I; and didst
overpower me by the influence of thy Spirit upon me. So long as
we see ourselves in the way of God, and of duty, it is weakness
and folly, when we meet with difficulties and discouragements,
to wish we had never set out in it. The prophet found the grace
of God mighty in him to keep him to his business,
notwithstanding the temptation he was in to throw it up.
Whatever injuries are done to us, we must leave them to that God
to whom vengeance belongs, and who has said, I will repay. So
full was he of the comfort of God's presence, the Divine
protection he was under, and the Divine promise he had to depend
upon, that he stirred up himself and others to give God the
glory. Let the people of God open their cause before Him, and he
will enable them to see deliverance.

#14-18 When grace has the victory, it is good to be ashamed of
our folly, to admire the goodness of God, and be warned to guard
our spirits another time. See how strong the temptation was,
over which the prophet got the victory by Divine assistance! He
is angry that his first breath was not his last. While we
remember that these wishes are not recorded for us to utter the
like, we may learn good lessons from them. See how much those
who think they stand, ought to take heed lest they fall, and to
pray daily, Lead us not into temptation. How frail, changeable,
and sinful is man! How foolish and unnatural are the thoughts
and wishes of our hearts, when we yield to discontent! Let us
consider Him who endured the contradiction of sinners against
himself, lest we should be at any time weary and faint in our
minds under our lesser trials.
$-$-$- JER:21

* The only way of deliverance is to be surrendering to the
Babylonians. (1-10) The wickedness of the king and his
household. (11-14)

#1-10 When the siege had begun, Zedekiah sent to ask of Jeremiah
respecting the event. In times of distress and danger, men often
seek those to counsel and pray for them, whom, at other times,
they despise and oppose; but they only seek deliverance from
punishment. When professors continue in disobedience, presuming
upon outward privileges, let them be told that the Lord will
prosper his open enemies against them. As the king and his
princes would not surrender, the people are exhorted to do so.
No sinner on earth is left without a Refuge, who really desires
one; but the way of life is humbling, it requires self-denial,
and exposes to difficulties.

#11-14 The wickedness of the king and his family was the worse
because of their relation to David. They were urged to act with
justice, at once, lest the Lord's anger should be unquenchable.
If God be for us, who can be against us? But if he be against
us, who can do any thing for us?
$-$-$- JER:22

* Justice is recommended, and destruction threatened in case of
disobedience. (1-9) The captivity of Jehoiakim, and the end of
Jeconiah. (10-19) The doom of the royal family. (20-30)

#1-9 The king of Judah is spoken to, as sitting upon the throne
of David, the man after God's own heart. Let him follow his
example, that he may have the benefit of the promises made to
him. The way to preserve a government, is to do the duty of it.
But sin will be the ruin of the houses of princes, as well as of
meaner men. And who can contend with destroyers of God's
preparing? God destroys neither persons, cities, nor nations,
except for sin; even in this world he often makes it plain for
what crimes he sends punishment; and it will be clear at the day
of judgement.

#10-19 Here is a sentence of death upon two kings, the wicked
sons of a very pious father. Josiah was prevented from seeing
the evil to come in this world, and removed to see the good to
come in the other world; therefore, weep not for him, but for
his son Shallum, who is likely to live and die a wretched
captive. Dying saints may be justly envied, while living sinners
are justly pitied. Here also is the doom of Jehoiakim. No doubt
it is lawful for princes and great men to build, beautify, and
furnish houses; but those who enlarge their houses, and make
them sumptuous, need carefully to watch against the workings of
vain-glory. He built his houses by unrighteousness, with money
gotten unjustly. And he defrauded his workmen of their wages.
God notices the wrong done by the greatest to poor servants and
labourers, and will repay those in justice, who will not, in
justice, pay those whom they employ. The greatest of men must
look upon the meanest as their neighbours, and be just to them
accordingly. Jehoiakim was unjust, and made no conscience of
shedding innocent blood. Covetousness, which is the root of all
evil, was at the bottom of all. The children who despise their
parents' old fashions, commonly come short of their real
excellences. Jehoiakim knew that his father found the way of
duty to be the way of comfort, yet he would not tread in his
steps. He shall die unlamented, hateful for oppression and
cruelty.

#20-30 The Jewish state is described under a threefold
character. Very haughty in a day of peace and safety. Very
fearful on alarm of trouble. Very much cast down under pressure
of trouble. Many never are ashamed of their sins till brought by
them to the last extremity. The king shall close his days in
bondage. Those that think themselves as signets on God's right
hand, must not be secure, but fear lest they should be plucked
thence. The Jewish king and his family shall be carried to
Babylon. We know where we were born, but where we shall die we
know not; it is enough that our God knows. Let it be our care
that we die in Christ, then it will be well with us wherever we
die, thought it may be in a far country. The Jewish king shall
be despised. Time was when he was delighted in; but all those in
whom God has no pleasure, some time or other, will be so
lowered, that men will have no pleasure in them. Whoever are
childless, it is the Lord that writes them so; and those who
take no care to do good in their days, cannot expect to prosper.
How little is earthly grandeur to be depended upon, or
flourishing families to be rejoiced in! But those who hear the
voice of Christ, and follow him, have eternal life, and shall
never perish, neither shall any enemy pluck them out of his
almighty hands.
$-$-$- JER:23

* The restoration of the Jews to their own land. (1-8) The
wickedness of the priests and prophets of Judah, The people
exhorted not to listen to false promises. (9-22) The pretenders
to inspiration threatened. (23-32) Also the scoffers at true
prophecy. (33-40)

#1-8 Woe be to those who are set to feed God's people, but take
no concern to do them good! Here is a word of comfort to the
neglected sheep. Though only a remnant of God's flock is left,
he will find them out, and they shall be brought to their former
habitations. Christ is spoken of as a branch from David's
family. He is righteous himself, and through him all his people
are made righteous. Christ shall break the usurped power of
Satan. All the spiritual seed of believing Abraham and praying
Jacob shall be protected, and shall be saved from the guilt and
dominion of sin. In the days of Christ's government in the soul,
the soul dwells at ease. He is here spoken of as "the Lord our
Righteousness." He is so our Righteousness as no creature could
be. His obedience unto death is the justifying righteousness of
believers, and their title to heavenly happiness. And their
sanctification, as the source of all their personal obedience is
the effect of their union with him, and of the supply of this
Spirit. By this name every true believer shall call him, and
call upon him. We have nothing to plead but this, Christ has
died, yea, rather is risen again; and we have taken him for our
Lord. This righteousness which he has wrought out to the
satisfaction of law and justice, becomes ours; being a free gift
given to us, through the Spirit of God, who puts it upon us,
clothes us with it, enables us to lay hold upon it, and claim an
interest in it. "The Lord our Righteousness" is a sweet name to
a convinced sinner; to one that has felt the guilt of sin in his
conscience; seen his need of that righteousness, and the worth
of it. This great salvation is far more glorious than all former
deliverances of his church. May our souls be gathered to Him,
and be found in him.

#9-22 The false prophets of Samaria had deluded the Israelites
into idolatries; yet the Lord considered the false prophets of
Jerusalem as guilty of more horrible wickedness, by which the
people were made bold in sin. These false teachers would be
compelled to suffer the most bitter part of the Lord's
indignation. They made themselves believe that there was no harm
in sin, and practised accordingly; then they made others believe
so. Those who are resolved to go on in evil ways, will justly be
given up to believe strong delusions. But which of them had
received any revelation of God, or understood any thing of his
word? There was a time coming when they would reflect on their
folly and unbelief with remorse. The teaching and example of the
true prophets led men to repentance, faith, and righteousness.
The false prophets led men to rest in forms and notions, and to
be quiet in their sins. Let us take heed that we do not follow
unrighteousness.

#23-32 Men cannot be hidden from God's all-seeing eye. Will they
never see what judgments they prepare for themselves? Let them
consider what a vast difference there is between these
prophecies and those delivered by the true prophets of the Lord.
Let them not call their foolish dreams Divine oracles. The
promises of peace these prophets make are no more to be compared
to God's promises than chaff to wheat. The unhumbled heart of
man is like a rock; if not melted by the word of God as a fire,
it will be broken to pieces by it as a hammer. How can they be
long safe, or at all easy, who have a God of almighty power
against them? The word of God is no smooth, lulling, deceitful
message. And by its faithfulness it may certainly be
distinguished from false doctrines.

#33-40 Those are miserable indeed who are forsaken and forgotten
of God; and men's jesting at God's judgments will not baffle
them. God had taken Israel to be a people near to him, but they
shall now be cast out of his presence. It is a mark of great and
daring impiety for men to jest with the words of God. Every idle
and profane word will add to the sinner's burden in the day of
judgment, when everlasting shame will be his portion.
$-$-$- JER:24

* Good and bad figs represent the Jews in captivity, and those
who remain in their own land.

- The prophet saw two baskets of figs set before the temple, as
offerings of first-fruits. The figs in one basket were very
good, those in the other basket very bad. What creature viler
than a wicked man? and what more valuable than a godly man? This
vision was to raise the spirits of those gone into captivity, by
assuring them of a happy return; and to humble and awaken the
proud and secure spirits of those yet in Jerusalem, by assuring
them of a miserable captivity. The good figs represents the
pious captives. We cannot determine as to God's love or hatred
by what is before us. Early suffering sometimes proves for the
best. The sooner the child is corrected, the better effect the
correction is likely to have. Even this captivity was for their
good; and God's intentions never are in vain. By afflictions
they were convinced of sin, humbled under the hand of God,
weaned from the world, taught to pray, and turned from sins,
particularly from idolatry. God promises that he will own them
in captivity. The Lord will own those who are his, in all
conditions. God assures them of his protection in trouble, and a
glorious deliverance in due time. When our troubles are
sanctified to us, we may be sure that they will end well. They
shall return to him with their whole heart. Thus they should
have liberty to own him for their God, to pray to him, and
expect blessings from him. The bad figs were Zedekiah and those
of his party yet in the land. These should be removed for their
hurt, and forsaken of all mankind. God has many judgments, and
those that escape one, may expect another, till they are brought
to repent. Doubtless, this prophecy had its fulfilment in that
age; but the Spirit of prophecy may here look forward to the
dispersion of the unbelieving Jews, in all the nations of the
earth. Let those who desire blessings from the Lord, beg that he
will give them a heart to know him.
$-$-$- JER:25

* The Jews rebuked for not obeying calls to repentance. (1-7)
Their captivity during seventy years is expressly foretold.
(8-14) Desolations upon the nations shown by the emblem of a cup
of wrath. (15-29) The judgments again declared. (30-38)

#1-7 The call to turn from evil ways to the worship and service
of God, and for sinners to trust in Christ, and partake of his
salvation, concerns all men. God keeps an account how long we
possess the means of grace; and the longer we have them, the
heavier will our account be if we have not improved them. Rising
early, points out the earnest desire that this people should
turn and live. Personal and particular reformation must be
insisted on as necessary to a national deliverance; and every
one must turn from his own evil way. Yet all was to no purpose.
They would not take the right and only method to turn away the
wrath of God.

#8-14 The fixing of the time during which the Jewish captivity
should last, would not only confirm the prophecy, but also
comfort the people of God, and encourage faith and prayer. The
ruin of Babylon is foretold: the rod will be thrown into the
fire when the correcting work is done. When the set time to
favour Zion is come, Babylon shall be punished for their
iniquity, as other nations have been punished for their sins.
Every threatening of the Scripture will certainly be
accomplished.

#15-29 The evil and the good events of life are often
represented in Scripture as cups. Under this figure is
represented the desolation then coming upon that part of the
world, of which Nebuchadnezzar, who had just began to reign and
act, was to be the instrument; but this destroying sword would
come from the hand of God. The desolations the sword should make
in all these kingdoms, are represented by the consequences of
excessive drinking. This may make us loathe the sin of
drunkenness, that the consequences of it are used to set forth
such a woful condition. Drunkenness deprives men of the use of
their reason, makes men as mad. It takes from them the valuable
blessing, health; and is a sin which is its own punishment. This
may also make us dread the judgments of war. It soon fills a
nation with confusion. They will refuse to take the cup at thy
hand. They will not believe Jeremiah; but he must tell them it
is the word of the Lord of hosts, and it is in vain for them to
struggle against Almighty power. And if God's judgments begin
with backsliding professors, let not the wicked expect to
escape.

#30-38 The Lord has just ground of controversy with every nation
and every person; and he will execute judgment on all the
wicked. Who can avoid trembling when God speaks in displeasure?
The days are fully come; the time fixed in the Divine counsels,
which will make the nations wholly desolate. The tender and
delicate shall share the common calamity. Even those who used to
live in peace, and did nothing to provoke, shall not escape.
Blessed be God, there is a peaceable habitation above, for all
the sons of peace. The Lord will preserve his church and all
believers in all changes; for nothing can separate them from his
love.
$-$-$- JER:26

* The destruction of the temple and city foretold. (1-6)
Jeremiah's life is threatened. (7-15) He is defended by the
elders. (16-24)

#1-6 God's ambassadors must not seek to please men, or to save
themselves from harm. See how God waits to be gracious. If they
persisted in disobedience, it would ruin their city and temple.
Can any thing else be expected? Those who will not be subject to
the commands of God, make themselves subject to the curse of
God.

#7-15 The priests and prophets charged Jeremiah as deserving
death, and bore false witness against him. The elders of Israel
came to inquire into this matter. Jeremiah declares that the
Lord sent him to prophesy thus. As long as ministers keep close
to the word they have from God, they need not fear. And those
are very unjust who complain of ministers for preaching of hell
and damnation; for it is from a desire to bring them to heaven
and salvation. Jeremiah warns them of their danger if they go on
against him. All men may know, that to hurt, or put to death, or
to show hatred to their faithful reprovers, will hasten and
increase their own punishment.

#16-24 When secure sinners are threatened with taking away the
Spirit of God, and the kingdom of God, it is what is warranted
from the word of God. Hezekiah who protected Micah, prospered.
Did Jehoiakim, who slew Urijah, prosper? The examples of bad
men, and the bad consequences of their sins, should deter from
what is evil. Urijah was faithful in delivering his message, but
faulty in leaving his work. And the Lord was pleased to permit
him to lose his life, while Jeremiah was protected in danger.
Those are safest who most simply trust in the Lord, whatever
their outward circumstances may be; and that He has all men's
hearts in his hands, encourages us to trust him in the way of
duty. He will honour and recompense those who show kindness to
such as are persecuted for his sake.
$-$-$- JER:27

* The neighbouring nations to be subdued. (1-11) Zedekiah is
warned to yield. (12-18) The vessels of the temple to be carried
to Babylon, but afterwards to be restored. (19-22)

#1-11 Jeremiah is to prepare a sign that all the neighbouring
countries would be made subject to the king of Babylon. God
asserts his right to dispose of kingdoms as he pleases. Whatever
any have of the good things of this world, it is what God sees
fit to give; we should therefore be content. The things of this
world are not the best things, for the Lord often gives the
largest share to bad men. Dominion is not founded in grace.
Those who will not serve the God who made them, shall justly be
made to serve their enemies that seek to ruin them. Jeremiah
urges them to prevent their destruction, by submission. A meek
spirit, by quiet submission to the hardest turns of providence,
makes the best of what is bad. Many persons may escape
destroying providences, by submitting to humbling providences.
It is better to take up a light cross in our way, than to pull a
heavier on our own heads. The poor in spirit, the meek and
humble, enjoy comfort, and avoid many miseries to which the
high-spirited are exposed. It must, in all cases, be our
interest to obey God's will.

#12-18 Jeremiah persuades the king of Judah to surrender to the
king of Babylon. Is it their wisdom to submit to the heavy iron
yoke of a cruel tyrant, that they may secure their lives; and is
it not much more our wisdom to submit to the pleasant and easy
yoke of our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, that we may secure
our souls? It were well if sinners would be afraid of the
destruction threatened against all who will not have Christ to
reign over them. Why should they die the second death,
infinitely worse than that by sword and famine, when they may
submit and live? And those who encourage sinners to go on in
sinful ways, will perish with them.

#19-22 Jeremiah assures them that the brazen vessels should go
after the golden ones. All shall be carried to Babylon. But he
concludes with a gracious promise, that the time would come when
they should be brought back. Though the return of the prosperity
of the church does not come in our time, we must not despair,
for it will come in God's time.
$-$-$- JER:28

* A false prophet opposes Jeremiah. (1-9) The false prophet
warned of his approaching death. (10-17)

#1-9 Hananiah spoke a false prophecy. Here is not a word of good
counsel urging the Jews to repent and return to God. He promises
temporal mercies, in God's name, but makes no mention of the
spiritual mercies which God always promised with earthly
blessings. This was not the first time Jeremiah had prayed for
the people, though he prophesied against them. He appeals to the
event, to prove Hananiah's falsehood. The prophet who spake only
of peace and prosperity, without adding that they must not by
wilful sin stop God's favours, will be proved a false prophet.
Those who do not declare the alarming as well as the encouraging
parts of God's word, and call men to repentance, and faith, and
holiness, tread in the steps of the false prophets. The gospel
of Christ encourages men to do works meet for repentance, but
gives no encouragement to continue in sin.

#10-17 Hananiah is sentenced to die, and Jeremiah, when he has
received direction from God, boldly tells him so; but not before
he received that commission. Those have much to answer for, who
tell sinners that they shall have peace, though they harden
their hearts in contempt of God's word. The servant of God must
be gentle to all men. He must give up even his right, and leave
the Lord to plead his cause. Every attempt of ungodly men to
make vain the purposes of God, will add to their miseries.
$-$-$- JER:29

* Two letters to the captives in Babylon; In the first, they are
recommended to be patient and composed. (1-19) In the second,
judgments are denounced against the false prophets who deceived
them. (20-32)

#1-7 The written word of God is as truly given by inspiration
of God as his spoken word. The zealous servant of the Lord will
use every means to profit those who are far off, as well as
those who are near him. The art of writing is very profitable
for this end; and by the art of printing it is rendered most
beneficial for circulating the knowledge of the word of God.
God's sending to the captives by this letter would show that he
had not forsaken them, though he was displeased, and corrected
them. If they live in the fear of God, they may live comfortably
in Babylon. In all conditions of life, it is our wisdom and duty
not to throw away the comfort of what we may have, because we
have not all we would have. They are directed to seek the good
of the country where they were captives. While the king of
Babylon protected them, they must live quiet and peaceable lives
under him, in all godliness and honesty; patiently leaving it to
God to work deliverance for them in due time.

#8-19 Let men beware how they call those prophets whom they
choose after their own fancies, and how they consider their
fancies and dreams to be revelations from God. False prophets
flatter people in their sins, because they love to be flattered;
and they speak smoothly to their prophets, that their prophets
may speak smoothly to them. God promises that they should return
after seventy years were accomplished. By this it appears, that
the seventy years of the captivity are not to be reckoned from
the last captivity, but the first. It will be the bringing to
pass of God's good word to them. This shall form God's purposes.
We often do not know our own minds, but the Lord is never at an
uncertainty. We are sometimes ready to fear that God's designs
are all against us; but as to his own people, even that which
seems evil, is for good. He will give them, not the expectations
of their fears, or the expectations of their fancies, but the
expectations of their faith; the end he has promised, which will
be the best for them. When the Lord pours out an especial spirit
of prayer, it is a good sign that he is coming toward us in
mercy. Promises are given to quicken and encourage prayer. He
never said, Seek ye me in vain. Those who remained at Jerusalem
would be utterly destroyed, notwithstanding what the false
prophets said to the contrary. The reason has often been given,
and it justifies the eternal ruin of impenitent sinners; Because
they have not hearkened to my words; I called, but they refused.

#20-32 Jeremiah foretells judgments upon the false prophets, who
deceived the Jews in Babylon. Lying was bad; lying to the people
of the Lord, to delude them into a false hope, was worse; but
pretending to rest their own lies upon the God of truth, was
worst of all. They flattered others in their sins, because they
could not reprove them without condemning themselves. The most
secret sins are known to God; and there is a day coming when he
will bring to light all the hidden works of darkness. Shemaiah
urges the priests to persecute Jeremiah. Their hearts are
wretchedly hardened who justify doing mischief by having power
to do it. They were in a miserable thraldom for mocking the
messengers of the Lord, and misusing his prophets; yet in their
distress they trespass still more against the Lord. Afflictions
will not of themselves cure men of their sins, unless the grace
of God works with them. Those who slight the blessings, deserve
to lose the benefit of God's word, like Shemaiah. The
accusations against many active Christians in all ages, amount
to no more than this, that they earnestly counsel men to attend
to their true interest and duties, and to wait for the
performance of God's promises in his appointed way.
$-$-$- JER:30

* Troubles which shall be before the restoration of Israel.
(1-11) Encouragement to trust Divine promises. (12-17) The
blessings under Christ, and the wrath on the wicked. (18-24)

#1-11 Jeremiah is to write what God had spoken to him. The very
words are such as the Holy Ghost teaches. These are the words
God ordered to be written; and promises written by his order,
are truly his word. He must write a description of the trouble
the people were now in, and were likely to be in. A happy end
should be put to these calamities. Though the afflictions of the
church may last long, they shall not last always. The Jews shall
be restored again. They shall obey, or hearken to the Messiah,
the Christ, the Son of David, their King. The deliverance of the
Jews from Babylon, is pointed out in the prophecy, but the
restoration and happy state of Israel and Judah, when converted
to Christ their King, are foretold; also the miseries of the
nations before the coming of Christ. All men must honour the Son
as they honour the Father, and come into the service and worship
of God by him. Our gracious Lord pardons the sins of the
believer, and breaks off the yoke of sin and Satan, that he may
serve God without fear, in righteousness and true holiness
before him all the remainder of his days, as the redeemed
subject of Christ our King.

#12-17 When God is against a people, who will be for them? Who
can be for them, so as to do them any kindness? Incurable griefs
are owing to incurable lusts. Yet, though the captives suffered
justly, and could not help themselves, the Lord intended to
appear for them, and to punish their oppressors; and he will
still do so. But every effort to heal ourselves must prove
fruitless, so long as we neglect the heavenly Advocate and
sanctifying Spirit. The dealings of His grace with every true
convert, and every returning backslider, are the same in effect
as his proceedings to the Jews.

#18-24 We have here further intimations of the favour of God for
them after the days of their calamity have expired. The proper
work and office of Christ, as Mediator, is to draw near unto
God, for us, as the High Priest of our profession. His own
undertaking, in compliance with his Father's will, and in
compassion to fallen man, engaged him. Jesus Christ was, in all
this, truly wonderful. They shall be taken again into covenant
with the Lord, according to the covenant made with their
fathers. "I will be your God:" it is his good-will to us, which
is the summary of that part of the covenant. The wrath of God
against the wicked is very terrible, like a whirlwind. The
purposes of his wrath, as well as the purposes of his love, will
all be fulfilled. God will comfort all that turn to him; but
those who approach him must have their hearts engaged to do it
with reverence, devotion, and faith. How will they escape who
neglect so great salvation?
$-$-$- JER:31

* The restoration of Israel. (1-9) Promises of guidance and
happiness; Rachel lamenting. (10-17) Ephraim laments his errors.
(18-20) The promised Saviour. (21-26) God's care over the
church. (27-34) Peace and prosperity in gospel time. (35-40)

#1-9 God assures his people that he will again take them into
covenant relation to himself. When brought very low, and
difficulties appear, it is good to remember that it has been so
with the church formerly. But it is hard under present frowns to
take comfort from former smiles; yet it is the happiness of
those who, through grace, are interested in the love of God,
that it is an everlasting love, from everlasting in the
counsels, to everlasting in the continuance. Those whom God
loves with this love, he will draw to himself, by the influences
of his Spirit upon their souls. When praising God for what he
has done, we must call upon him for the favours his church needs
and expects. When the Lord calls, we must not plead that we
cannot come; for he that calls us, will help us, will strengthen
us. The goodness of God shall lead them to repentance. And they
shall weep for sin with more bitterness, and more tenderness,
when delivered out of their captivity, than when groaning under
it. If we take God for our Father, and join the church of the
first-born, we shall want nothing that is good for us. These
predictions doubtless refer also to a future gathering of the
Israelites from all quarters of the globe. And they figuratively
describe the conversion of sinners to Christ, and the plain and
safe way in which they are led.

#10-17 He that scattered Israel, knows where to find them. It is
comfortable to observe the goodness of the Lord in the gifts of
providence. But our souls are never valuable as gardens, unless
watered with the dews of God's Spirit and grace. A precious
promise follows, which will not have full accomplishment except
in the heavenly Zion. Let them be satisfied of God's
loving-kindness, and they will be satisfied with it, and desire
no more to make them happy. Rachel is represented as rising from
her grave, and refusing to be comforted, supposing her offspring
rooted out. The murder of the children at Bethlehem, by Herod,
#Mt 2:16-18|, in some degree fulfilled this prediction, but
could not be its full meaning. If we have hope in the end,
concerning an eternal inheritance, for ourselves and those
belonging to us, all temporal afflictions may be borne, and will
be for our good.

#18-20 Ephraim (the ten tribes) is weeping for sin. He is angry
at himself for his sin, and folly, and frowardness. He finds he
cannot, by his own power, keep himself close with God, much less
bring himself back when he is revolted. Therefore he prays, Turn
thou me, and I shall be turned. His will was bowed to the will
of God. When the teaching of God's Spirit went with the
corrections of his providence, then the work was done. This is
our comfort in affliction, that the Lord thinks upon us. God has
mercy in store, rich mercy, sure mercy, suitable mercy, for all
who seek him in sincerity.

#21-26 The way from the bondage of sin to the liberty of God's
children, is a high-way. It is plain, it is safe; yet none are
likely to walk in it, unless they set their hearts towards it.
They are encouraged by the promise of a new, unheard-of,
extraordinary thing; a creation, a work of Almighty power; the
human nature of Christ, formed and prepared by the power of the
Holy Ghost: and this is here mentioned as an encouragement to
the Jews to return to their own land. And a comfortable prospect
is given them of a happy settlement there. Godliness and honesty
God has joined: let no man think to put them asunder, or to make
the one atone for the want of the other. In the love and favour
of God the weary soul shall find rest, and the sorrowful shall
find joy. And what can we see with more satisfaction than the
good of Jerusalem, and peace upon Israel?

#27-34 The people of God shall become numerous and prosperous.
In #Heb 8:8,9|, this place is quoted as the sum of the covenant
of grace made with believers in Jesus Christ. Not, I will give
them a new law; for Christ came not to destroy the law, but to
fulfil it; but the law shall be written in their hearts by the
finger of the Spirit, as formerly written in the tables of
stone. The Lord will, by his grace, make his people willing
people in the day of his power. All shall know the Lord; all
shall be welcome to the knowledge of God, and shall have the
means of that knowledge. There shall be an outpouring of the
Holy Spirit, at the time the gospel is published. No man shall
finally perish, but for his own sins; none, who is willing to
accept of Christ's salvation.

#35-40 As surely as the heavenly bodies will continue their
settled course, according to the will of their Creator, to the
end of time, and as the raging sea obeys him, so surely will the
Jews be continued a separate people. Words can scarcely set
forth more strongly the restoration of Israel. The rebuilding of
Jerusalem, and its enlargement and establishment, shall be an
earnest of the great things God will do for the gospel church.
The personal happiness of every true believer, as well as the
future restoration of Israel, is secured by promise, covenant,
and oath. This Divine love passes knowledge; and to those who
take hold upon it, every present mercy is an earnest of
salvation.
$-$-$- JER:32

* Jeremiah buys a field. (1-15) The prophet's prayer. (16-25)
God declares that he will give up his people, but promises to
restore them. (26-44)

#1-15 Jeremiah, being in prison for his prophecy, purchased a
piece of ground. This was to signify, that though Jerusalem was
besieged, and the whole country likely to be laid waste, yet the
time would come, when houses, and fields, and vineyards, should
be again possessed. It concerns ministers to make it appear that
they believe what they preach to others. And it is good to
manage even our worldly affairs in faith; to do common business
with reference to the providence and promise of God.

#16-25 Jeremiah adores the Lord and his infinite perfections.
When at any time we are perplexed about the methods of
Providence, it is good for us to look to first principles. Let
us consider that God is the fountain of all being, power, and
life; that with him no difficulty is such as cannot be overcome;
that he is a God of boundless mercy; that he is a God of strict
justice; and that he directs every thing for the best. Jeremiah
owns that God was righteous in causing evil to come upon them.
Whatever trouble we are in, personal or public, we may comfort
ourselves that the Lord sees it, and knows how to remedy it. We
must not dispute God's will, but we may seek to know what it
means.

#26-44 God's answer discovers the purposes of his wrath against
that generation of the Jews, and the purposes of his grace
concerning future generations. It is sin, and nothing else, that
ruins them. The restoration of Judah and Jerusalem is promised.
This people were now at length brought to despair. But God gives
hope of mercy which he had in store for them hereafter.
Doubtless the promises are sure to all believers. God will own
them for his, and he will prove himself theirs. He will give
them a heart to fear him. All true Christians shall have a
disposition to mutual love. Though they may have different views
about lesser things, they shall all be one in the great things
of God; in their views of the evil of sin, and the low estate of
fallen man, the way of salvation through the Saviour, the nature
of true holiness, the vanity of the world, and the importance of
eternal things. Whom God loves, he loves to the end. We have no
reason to distrust God's faithfulness and constancy, but only
our own hearts. He will settle them again in Canaan. These
promises shall surely be performed. Jeremiah's purchase was the
pledge of many a purchase that should be made after the
captivity; and those inheritances are but faint resemblances of
the possessions in the heavenly Canaan, which are kept for all
who have God's fear in their hearts, and do not depart from him.
Let us then bear up under our trials, assured we shall obtain
all the good he has promised us.
$-$-$- JER:33

* The restoration of the Jews. (1-13) The Messiah promised;
happiness of his times. (14-26)

#1-13 Those who expect to receive comforts from God, must call
upon him. Promises are given, not to do away, but to quicken and
encourage prayer. These promises lead us to the gospel of
Christ; and in that God has revealed truth to direct us, and
peace to make us easy. All who by sanctifying grace are cleansed
from the filth of sin, by pardoning mercy are freed from the
guilt. When sinners are thus justified, washed, and sanctified
in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Holy Spirit, they are
enabled to walk before God in peace and purity. Many are led to
perceive the real difference between the people of God and the
world around them, and to fear the Divine wrath. It is promised
that the people who were long in sorrow, shall again be filled
with joy. Where the Lord gives righteousness and peace, he will
give all needful supplies for temporal wants; and all we have
will be comforts, as sanctified by the word and by prayer.

#14-26 To crown the blessings God has in store, here is a
promise of the Messiah. He imparts righteousness to his church,
for he is made of God to us righteousness; and believers are
made the righteousness of God in him. Christ is our Lord God,
our righteousness, our sanctification, and our redemption. His
kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. But in this world prosperity
and adversity succeed each other, as light and darkness, day and
night. The covenant of priesthood shall be secured. And all true
believers are a holy priesthood, a royal priesthood, they offer
up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God; themselves, in the
first place, as living sacrifices. The promises of that covenant
shall have full accomplishment in the gospel Israel. In #Ga
6:16|, all that walk according to the gospel rule, are made to
be the Israel of God, on whom shall be peace and mercy. Let us
not despise the families which were of old the chosen people of
God, though for a time they seem to be cast off.
$-$-$- JER:34

* Zedekiah's death at Babylon foretold. (1-7) The Jews reproved
for compelling their poor brethren to return to unlawful
bondage. (8-22)

#1-7 Zedekiah is told that the city shall be taken, and that he
shall die a captive, but he shall die a natural death. It is
better to live and die penitent in a prison, than to live and
die impenitent in a palace.

#8-22 A Jew should not be held in servitude above seven years.
This law they and their fathers had broken. And when there was
some hope that the siege was raised, they forced the servants
they had released into their services again. Those who think to
cheat God by dissembled repentance and partial reformation, put
the greatest cheat upon their own souls. This shows that liberty
to sin, is really only liberty to have the sorest judgments. It
is just with God to disappoint expectations of mercy, when we
disappoint the expectations of duty. And when reformation
springs only from terror, it is seldom lasting. Solemn vows thus
entered into, profane the ordinances of God; and the most
forward to bind themselves by appeals to God, are commonly most
ready to break them. Let us look to our hearts, that our
repentance may be real, and take care that the law of God
regulates our conduct.
$-$-$- JER:35

* The obedience of the Rechabites. (1-11) The Jews' disobedience
to the Lord. (12-19)

#1-11 Jonadab was famous for wisdom and piety. He lived nearly
300 years before, #2Ki 10:15|. Jonadab charged his posterity not
to drink wine. He also appointed them to dwell in tents, or
movable dwelling: this would teach them not to think of settling
any where in this world. To keep low, would be the way to
continue long in the land where they were strangers. Humility
and contentment are always the best policy, and men's surest
protection. Also, that they might not run into unlawful
pleasures, they were to deny themselves even lawful delights.
The consideration that we are strangers and pilgrims should
oblige us to abstain from all fleshly lusts. Let them have
little to lose, and then losing times would be the less
dreadful: let them sit loose to what they had, and then they
might with less pain be stript of it. Those are in the best
frame to meet sufferings who live a life of self-denial, and who
despise the vanities of the world. Jonadab's posterity observed
these rules strictly, only using proper means for their safety
in a time of general suffering.

#12-19 The trial of the Rechabites' constancy was for a sign; it
made the disobedience of the Jews to God the more marked. The
Rechabites were obedient to one who was but a man like
themselves, and Jonadab never did for his seed what God has done
for his people. Mercy is promised to the Rechabites. We are not
told respecting the performance of this promise; but doubtless
it was performed, and travellers say the Rechabites may be found
a separate people to this day. Let us follow the counsels of our
pious forefathers, and we shall find good in so doing.
$-$-$- JER:36

* Baruch is to write the prophecies of Jeremiah. (1-8) The
princes advise them to hide themselves. (9-19) The king having
heard a part, burns the roll. (20-32)

#1-8 The writing of the Scriptures was by Divine appointment.
The Divine wisdom directed to this as a proper means; if it
failed, the house of Judah would be the more without excuse. The
Lord declares to sinners the evil he purposes to do against
them, that they may hear, and fear, and return from their evil
ways; and whenever any one makes this use of God's warnings, in
dependence on his promised mercy, he will find the Lord ready to
forgive his sins. All others will be left without excuse; and
the consideration that great is the anger God has pronounced
against us for sin, should quicken both our prayers and our
endeavours.

#9-19 Shows of piety and devotion may be found even among those,
who, though they keep up forms of godliness, are strangers and
enemies to the power of it. The princes patiently attended the
reading of the whole book. They were in great fear. But even
those who are convinced to the truth and importance of what they
hear, and are disposed to favour those who preach it, often have
difficulties and reserves about their safety, interest, or
preferment, so that they do not act according to their
convictions, and try to get rid of what they find troublesome.

#20-32 Those who despise the word of God, will soon show, as
this king did, that they hate it; and, like him, they would wish
it destroyed. See what enmity there is against God in the carnal
mind, and wonder at his patience. The princes showed some
concern, till they saw how light the king made of it. Beware of
making light of God's word!
$-$-$- JER:37

* The Chaldean army will return. (1-10) Jeremiah is imprisoned.
(11-21)

#1-10 Numbers witness the fatal effects of other men's sins, yet
heedlessly step into their places, and follow the same
destructive course. When in distress, we ought to desire the
prayers of ministers and Christian friends. And it is common for
those to desire to be prayed for, who will not be advised; yet
sinners are often hardened by a pause in judgments. But if God
help us not, no creature can. Whatever instruments God has
determined to use, they shall do the work, though they seem
unlikely.

#11-21 There are times when it is the wisdom of good men to
retire, to enter into their chambers, and to shut the doors,
#Isa 26:20|. Jeremiah was seized as a deserter, and committed to
prison. But it is no new thing for the best friends of the
church to be belied, as in the interests of her worst enemies.
When thus falsely accused, we may deny the charge, and commit
our cause to Him who judges righteously. Jeremiah obtained mercy
of the Lord to be faithful, and would not, to obtain mercy of
man, be unfaithful to God or to his prince; he tells the king
the whole truth. When Jeremiah delivered God's message, he spake
with boldness; but when he made his own request, he spake
submissively. A lion in God's cause must be a lamb in his own.
And God gave Jeremiah favour in the eyes of the king. The Lord
God can make even the cells of a prison become pastures to his
people, and will raise up friends to provide for them, so that
in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
$-$-$- JER:38

* Jeremiah is cast into a dungeon, from whence he is delivered
by an Ethiopian. (1-13) He advises the king to surrender to the
Chaldeans. (14-28)

#1-13 Jeremiah went on in his plain preaching. The princes went
on in their malice. It is common for wicked people to look upon
God's faithful ministers as enemies, because they show what
enemies the wicked are to themselves while impenitent. Jeremiah
was put into a dungeon. Many of God's faithful witnesses have
been privately made away in prisons. Ebed-melech was an
Ethiopian; yet he spoke to the king faithfully, These men have
done ill in all they have done to Jeremiah. See how God can
raise up friends for his people in distress. Orders were given
for the prophet's release, and Ebed-melech saw him drawn up. Let
this encourage us to appear boldly for God. Special notice is
taken of his tenderness for Jeremiah. What do we behold in the
different characters then, but the same we behold in the
different characters now, that the Lord's children are conformed
to his example, and the children of Satan to their master?

#14-28 Jeremiah was not forward to repeat the warnings, which
seemed only to endanger his own life, and to add to the king's
guilt, but asked whether he feared to do the will of God. The
less men fear God, the more they fear men; often they dare not
act according to their own judgments and consciences.
$-$-$- JER:39

* The taking of Jerusalem. (1-10) Jeremiah used well. (11-14)
Promises of safety to Ebed-melech. (15-18)

#1-10 Jerusalem was so strong, that the inhabitants believed the
enemy could never enter it. But sin provoked God to withdraw his
protection, and then it was as weak as other cities. Zedekiah
had his eyes put out; so he was condemned to darkness who had
shut his eyes against the clear light of God's word. Those who
will not believe God's words, will be convinced by the event.
Observe the wonderful changes of Providence, how uncertain are
earthly possessions; and see the just dealings of Providence:
but whether the Lord makes men poor or rich, nothing will profit
them while they cleave to their sins.

#11-14 The servants of God alone are prepared for all events;
and they are delivered and comforted, while the wicked suffer.
They often meet with more kindness from the profane, than from
hypocritical professors of godliness. The Lord will raise them
up friends, do them good, and perform all his promises.

#15-18 Here is a message to assure Ebed-melech of a recompence
for his great kindness to Jeremiah. Because thou hast put thy
trust in me, saith the Lord. God recompenses men's services
according to their principles. Those who trust God in the way of
duty, as this good man did, will find that their hope shall not
fail in times of the greatest danger.
$-$-$- JER:40

* Jeremiah is directed to go to Gedaliah. (1-6) A conspiracy
against Gedaliah. (7-16)

#1-6 The captain of the guard seems to glory that he had been
God's instrument to fulfil, what Jeremiah had been God's
messenger to foretell. Many can see God's justice and truth with
regard to others, who are heedless and blind as to themselves
and their own sins. But, sooner or later, all men shall be made
sensible that their sin is the cause of all their miseries.
Jeremiah has leave to dispose of himself; but is advised to go
to Gedaliah, governor of the land under the king of Babylon. It
is doubtful whether Jeremiah acted right in this decision. But
those who desire the salvation of sinners, and the good of the
church, are apt to expect better times from slight appearances,
and they will prefer the hope of being useful, to the most
secure situations without it.

#7-16 Jeremiah had never in his prophecies spoken of any good
days for the Jews, to come immediately after the captivity; yet
Providence seemed to encourage such an expectation. But how soon
is this hopeful prospect blighted! When God begins a judgment,
he will complete it. While pride, ambition, or revenge, bears
rule in the heart, men will form new projects, and be restless
in mischief, which commonly ends in their own ruin. Who would
have thought, that after the destruction of Jerusalem, rebellion
would so soon have sprung up? There can be no thorough change
but what grace makes. And if the miserable, who are kept in
everlasting chains for the judgment of the great day, were again
permitted to come on earth, the sin and evil of their nature
would be unchanged. Lord, give us new hearts, and that new mind
in which the new birth consists, since thou hast said we cannot
without it see thy heavenly kingdom.
$-$-$- JER:41

* Ishmael murders Gedaliah. (1-10) Johanan recovers the
captives, and purposes to retire to Egypt. (11-18)

#1-10 Those who hate the worshippers of God, often put on the
appearance of piety, that they may the easier hurt them. As
death often meets men where they least expect it, we should
continually search whether we are in such a state and frame of
mind, as we would wish to be found in when called to appear
before our Judge. Sometimes the ransom of a man's life is his
riches. But those who think to bribe death, saying, Slay us not,
for we have treasures in the field, will find themselves
wretchedly deceived. This melancholy history warns us, never to
be secure in this world. We never can be sure of peace on this
side heaven.

#11-18 The success of villany must be short, and none can
prosper who harden their hearts against God. And those justly
lose comfort in real fears, who excuse themselves in sin by
pretended fears. The removal of a prudent and peaceable ruler,
and the succession of another who is rash and ambitious, affects
the welfare of many. Only those are happy and steady who fear
the Lord and walk in his ways.
$-$-$- JER:42

* Johanan desires Jeremiah to ask counsel of God. (1-6) They are
assured of safety in Judea, but of destruction in Egypt. (7-22)

#1-6 To serve a turn, Jeremiah is sought out, and the captains
ask for his assistance. In every difficult, doubtful case, we
must look to God for direction; and we may still, in faith, pray
to be guided by a spirit of wisdom in our hearts, and the
leadings of Providence. We do not truly desire to know the mind
of God, if we do not fully resolve to comply with it when we
know it. Many promise to do what the Lord requires, while they
hope to have their pride flattered, and their favourite lusts
spared. Yet something betrays the state of their hearts.

#7-22 If we would know the mind of the Lord in doubtful cases,
we must wait as well as pray. God is ever ready to return in
mercy to those he has afflicted; and he never rejects any who
rely on his promises. He has declared enough to silence even the
causeless fears of his people, which discourge them in the way
of duty. Whatever loss or suffering we may fear from obedience,
is provided against in God's word; and he will protect and
deliver all who trust in him and serve him. It is folly to quit
our place, especially to quit a holy land, because we meet with
trouble in it. And the evils we think to escape by sin, we
certainly bring upon ourselves. We may apply this to the common
troubles of life; and those who think to avoid them by changing
their place, will find that the grievances common to men will
meet them wherever they go. Sinners who dissemble with God in
solemn professions especially should be rebuked with sharpness;
for their actions speak more plainly than words. We know not
what is good for ourselves; and what we are most fond of, and
have our hearts most set upon, often proves hurtful, and
sometimes fatal.
$-$-$- JER:43

* The leaders carry the people to Egypt. (1-7) Jeremiah
foretells the conquest of Egypt. (8-13)

#1-7 Only by pride comes contention, both with God and man. They
preferred their own wisdom to the revealed will of God. Men deny
the Scriptures to be the word of God, because they are resolved
not to conform themselves to Scripture rules. When men will
persist in sin, they charge the best actions to bad motives.
These Jews deserted their own land, and threw themselves out of
God's protection. It is the folly of men, that they often ruin
themselves by wrong endeavours to mend their situation.

#8-13 God can find his people wherever they are. The Spirit of
prophecy was not confined to the land of Israel. It is foretold
that Nebuchadnezzar should destroy and carry into captivity many
of the Egyptians. Thus God makes one wicked man, or wicked
nation, a scourge and plague to another. He will punish those
who deceive his professing people, or tempt them to rebellion.
$-$-$- JER:44

* The Jews in Egypt persist in idolatry. (1-14) They refuse to
reform. (15-19) Jeremiah then denounces destruction upon them.
(20-30)

#1-14 God reminds the Jews of the sins that brought desolations
upon Judah. It becomes us to warn men of the danger of sin with
all seriousness: Oh, do not do it! If you love God, do not, for
it is provoking to him; if you love your own souls, do not, for
it is destructive to them. Let conscience do this for us in the
hour of temptation. The Jews whom God sent into the land of the
Chaldeans, were there, by the power of God's grace, weaned from
idolatry; but those who went by their own perverse will into the
land of the Egyptians, were there more attached than ever to
their idolatries. When we thrust ourselves without cause or call
into places of temptation, it is just with God to leave us to
ourselves. If we walk contrary to God, he will walk contrary to
us. The most awful miseries to which men are exposed, are
occasioned by the neglect of offered salvation.

#15-19 These daring sinners do not attempt excuses, but declare
they will do that which is forbidden. Those who disobey God,
commonly grow worse and worse, and the heart is more hardened by
the deceitfulness of sin. Here is the real language of the
rebellious heart. Even the afflictions which should have parted
them from their sins, were taken so as to confirm them in their
sins. It is sad when those who should quicken each other to what
is good, and so help one another to heaven, harden each other in
sin, and so ripen one another for hell. To mingle idolatry with
Divine worship, and to reject the mediation of Christ, are
provoking to God, and ruinous to men. All who worship images, or
honour saints, and angels, and the queen of heaven, should
recollect what came from the idolatrous practices of the Jews.

#20-30 Whatever evil comes upon us, it is because we have sinned
against the Lord; we should therefore stand in awe, and sin not.
Since they were determined to persist in their idolatry, God
would go on to punish them. What little remains of religion were
among them, would be lost. The creature-comforts and confidences
from which we promise ourselves most, may fail as soon as those
from which we promise ourselves least; and all are what God
makes them, not what we fancy them to be. Well-grounded hopes of
our having a part in the Divine mercy, are always united with
repentance and obedience.
$-$-$- JER:45

* An encouragement sent to Baruch.

- Baruch was employed in writing Jeremiah's prophecies, and
reading them, see ch. #Jer 36|, and was threatened for it by the
king. Young beginners in religion are apt to be discouraged with
little difficulties, which they commonly meet with at first in
the service of God. These complaints and fears came from his
corruptions. Baruch had raised his expectations too high in this
world, and that made the distress and trouble he was in harder
to be borne. The frowns of the world would not disquiet us, if
we did not foolishly flatter ourselves with the hopes of its
smiles, and court and covet them. What a folly is it then to
seek great things for ourselves here, where every thing is
little, and nothing certain! The Lord knows the real cause of
our fretfulness and despondency better than we do, and we should
beg of him to examine our hearts, and to repress every wrong
desire in us.
$-$-$- JER:46

* The defeat of the Egyptians. (1-12) Their overthrow after the
siege of Tyre. (13-26) A promise of comfort to the Jews. (27,28)

#1-12 The whole word of God is against those who obey not the
gospel of Christ; but it is for those, even of the Gentiles, who
turn to Him. The prophecy begins with Egypt. Let them strengthen
themselves with all the art and interest they have, yet it shall
be all in vain. The wounds God inflicts on his enemies, cannot
be healed by medicines. Power and prosperity soon pass from one
to another in this changing world.

#13-28 Those who encroached on others, shall now be themselves
encroached on. Egypt is now like a very fair heifer, not
accustomed to the yoke of subjection; but destruction comes out
of the north: the Chaldeans shall come. Comfort and peace are
spoken to the Israel of God, designed to encourage them when the
judgments of God were abroad among the nations. He will be with
them, and only correct them in measure; and will not punish them
with everlasting destruction from his presence.
$-$-$- JER:47

* The calamities of the Philistines.

- The Philistines had always been enemies to Israel; but the
Chaldean army shall overflow their land like a deluge. Those
whom God will spoil, must be spoiled. For when the Lord intends
to destroy the wicked, he will cut off every helper. So
deplorable are the desolations of war, that the blessings of
peace are most desirable. But we must submit to His appointments
who ordains all in perfect wisdom and justice.
$-$-$- JER:48

* Prophecies against Moab for pride and security. (1-13) For
carnal confidence and contempt of God. (14-47)

#1-13. The Chaldeans are to destroy the Moabites. We should be
thankful that we are required to seek the salvation of men's
lives, and the salvation of their souls, not to shed their
blood; but we shall be the more without excuse if we do this
pleasant work deceitfully. The cities shall be laid in ruins,
and the country shall be wasted. There will be great sorrow.
There will be great hurry. If any could give wings to sinners,
still they could not fly out of the reach of Divine indignation.
There are many who persist in unrepented iniquity, yet long
enjoy outward prosperity. They had been long corrupt and
unreformed, secure and sensual in prosperity. They have no
changes of their peace and prosperity, therefore their hearts
and lives are unchanged, #Ps 55:19|.

#14-47. The destruction of Moab is further prophesied, to awaken
them by national repentance and reformation to prevent the
trouble, or by a personal repentance and reformation to prepare
for it. In reading this long roll of threatenings, and mediating
on the terror, it will be of more use to us to keep in view the
power of God's anger and the terror of his judgments, and to
have our hearts possessed with a holy awe of God and of his
wrath, than to search into all the figures and expressions here
used. Yet it is not perpetual destruction. The chapter ends with
a promise of their return out of captivity in the latter days.
Even with Moabites God will not contend for ever, nor be always
wroth. The Jews refer it to the days of the Messiah; then the
captives of the Gentiles, under the yoke of sin and Satan, shall
be brought back by Divine grace, which shall make them free
indeed.
$-$-$- JER:49

* Prophecies relative to the Ammonites. (1-6) The Edomites.
(7-22) The Syrians. (23-27) The Kedarenes. (28-33) The Elamites.
(34-39)

#1-6. Might often prevails against right among men, yet that
might shall be controlled by the Almighty, who judges aright;
and those will find themselves mistaken, who, like the
Ammonites, think every thing their own on which they can lay
their hands. The Lord will call men to account for every
instance of dishonesty, especially to the destitute.

#7-22 The Edomites were old enemies to the Israel of God. But
their day is now at hand; it is foretold, not only to warn them,
but for the sake of the Israel of God, whose afflictions were
aggravated by them. Thus Divine judgments go round from nation
to nation; the earth is full of commotion, and nothing can
escape the ministers of Divine vengeance. The righteousness of
God is to be observed amidst the violence of men.

#23-27 How easily God can dispirit those nations that have been
most celebrated for valour! Damascus waxes feeble. It was a city
of joy, having all the delights of the sons of men. But those
deceive themselves who place their happiness in carnal joys.

#28-33 Nebuchadnezzar would make desolation among the people of
Kedar, who dwelt in the deserts of Arabia. He who conquered many
strong cities, will not leave those unconquered that dwell in
tents. He will do this to gratify his own covetousness and
ambition; but God orders it for correcting an unthankful people,
and for warning a careless world to expect trouble when they
seem most safe. They shall flee, get far off, and dwell deep in
the deserts; they shall be dispersed. But privacy and obscurity
are not always protection and security.

#34-39 The Elamites were the Persians; they acted against God's
Israel, and must be reckoned with. Evil pursues sinners. God
will make them know that he reigns. Yet the destruction of Elam
shall not be for ever. But this promise was to have its full
accomplishment in the days of the Messiah. In reading the Divine
assurance of the destruction of all the enemies of the church,
the believer sees that the issue of the holy war is not
doubtful. It is blessed to recollect, that He who is for us, is
more than all against us. And he will subdue the enemies of our
souls.
$-$-$- JER:50

* The ruin of Babylon. (1-3,8-16,21-32,35-46;) The redemption of
God's people. (4-7,17-20,33,34)

#1-7 The king of Babylon was kind to Jeremiah, yet the prophet
must foretell the ruin of that kingdom. If our friends are God's
enemies, we dare not speak peace to them. The destruction of
Babylon is spoken of as done thoroughly. Here is a word for the
comfort of the Jews. They shall return to their God first, then
to their own land; the promise of their conversion and
reformation makes way for the other promises. Their tears flow
not from the sorrow of the world, as when they went into
captivity, but from godly sorrow. They shall seek after the Lord
as their God, and have no more to do with idols. They shall
think of returning to their own country. This represents the
return of poor souls to God. In true converts there are sincere
desires to attain the end, and constant cares to keep in the
way. Their present case is lamented as very sad. The sins of
professing Christians never will excuse those who rejoice in
destroying them.

#8-20 The desolation that shall be brought upon Babylon is set
forth in a variety of expressions. The cause of this destruction
is the wrath of the Lord. Babylon shall be wholly desolated; for
she hath sinned against the Lord. Sin makes men a mark for the
arrows of God's judgments. The mercy promised to the Israel of
God, shall not only accompany, but arise from the destruction of
Babylon. These sheep shall be gathered from the deserts, and put
again into good pasture. All who return to God and their duty,
shall find satisfaction of soul in so doing. Deliverances out of
trouble are comforts indeed, when fruits of the forgiveness of
sin.

#21-32 The forces are mustered and empowered to destroy Babylon.
Let them do what God demands, and they shall bring to pass what
he threatens. The pride of men's hearts sets God against them,
and ripens them apace for ruin. Babylon's pride must be her
ruin; she has been proud against the Holy One of Israel; who can
keep those up whom God will throw down?

#33-46 It is Israel's comfort in distress, that, though they are
weak, their Redeemer is strong. This may be applied to
believers, who complain of the dominion of sin and corruption,
and of their own weakness and manifold infirmities. Their
Redeemer is able to keep what they commit to him; and sin shall
not have dominion over them. He will give them that rest which
remains for the people of God. Also here is Babylon's sin, and
their punishment. The sins are, idolatry and persecution. He
that will not save his people in their sins, never will
countenance the wickedness of his open enemies. The judgments of
God for these sins will lay them waste. In the judgments
denounced against prosperous Babylon, and the mercies promised
to afflicted Israel, we learn to choose to suffer affliction
with the people of God, rather than to enjoy the pleasures of
sin for a season.
$-$-$- JER:51

* Babylon's doom; God's controversy with her; encouragements
from thence to the Israel of God. (1-58) The confirming of this.
(59-64)

#1-58 The particulars of this prophecy are dispersed and
interwoven, and the same things left and returned to again.
Babylon is abundant in treasures, yet neither her waters nor her
wealth shall secure her. Destruction comes when they did not
think of it. Wherever we are, in the greatest depths, at the
greatest distances, we are to remember the Lord our God; and in
the times of the greatest fears and hopes, it is most needful to
remember the Lord. The feeling excited by Babylon's fall is the
same with the New Testament Babylon, #Re 18:9,19|. The ruin of
all who support idolatry, infidelity, and superstition, is
needful for the revival of true godliness; and the threatening
prophecies of Scripture yield comfort in this view. The great
seat of antichristian tyranny, idolatry, and superstition, the
persecutor of true Christians, is as certainly doomed to
destruction as ancient Babylon. Then will vast multitudes mourn
for sin, and seek the Lord. Then will the lost sheep of the
house of Israel be brought back to the fold of the good
Shepherd, and stray no more. And the exact fulfilment of these
ancient prophecies encourages us to faith in all the promises
and prophecies of the sacred Scriptures.

#59-64 This prophecy is sent to Babylon, to the captives there,
by Seraiah, who is to read it to his countrymen in captivity.
Let them with faith see the end of these threatening powers, and
comfort themselves herewith. When we see what this world is, how
glittering its shows, and how flattering its proposals, let us
read in the book of the Lord that it shall shortly be desolate.
The book must be thrown into the river Euphrates. The fall of
the New Testament Babylon is thus represented, #Re 18:21|. Those
that sink under the weight of God's wrath and curse, sink for
ever. Babylon, and every antichrist, will soon sink and rise no
more for ever. Let us hope in God's word, and quietly wait for
his salvation; then we shall see, but shall not share, the
destruction of the wicked.
$-$-$- JER:52

* The fate of Zedekiah. (1-11) The destruction of Jerusalem.
(12-23) The captivities. (24-30) The advancement of Jehoiachin.
(31-34)

#1-11 This fruit of sin we should pray against above any thing;
Cast me not away from thy presence, #Ps 51:11|. None are cast
out of God's presence but those who by sin have first thrown
themselves out. Zedekiah's flight was in vain, for there is no
escaping the judgments of God; they come upon the sinner, and
overtake him, let him flee where he will.

#12-23 The Chaldean army made woful havoc. But nothing is so
particularly related here, as the carrying away of the articles
in the temple. The remembrance of their beauty and value shows
us the more the evil of sin.

#24-30 The leaders of the Jews caused them to err; but now they
are, in particular, made monuments of Divine justice. Here is an
account of two earlier captivities. This people often were
wonders both of judgment and mercy.

#31-34 See this history of king Jehoiachin in #2Ki 25:27-30|.
Those under oppression will find it is not in vain for them to
hope and quietly to wait for the salvation of the Lord. Our
times are in God's hand, for the hearts of all we have to deal
with are so. May we be enabled, more and more, to rest on the
Rock of Ages, and to look forward with holy faith to that hour,
when the Lord will bring again Zion, and overthrow all the
enemies of the church.