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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 11 - Verse 14

11:14
Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear them in the time that they cry unto me for their trouble.

Meaning

Jeremiah 7:16 is a powerful verse that serves as a reminder of God's justice and the consequences of disobedience. In this verse, God instructs Jeremiah not to pray for the people of Judah, as they have turned away from Him and are unrepentant in their sins. God declares that He will not listen to their cries for help when they face trouble, as they have continually ignored His warnings and refused to repent. This verse highlights the importance of obedience and the need to turn back to God in times of trouble. It serves as a warning that there are consequences for turning away from God and not seeking His forgiveness. Despite God's mercy and love, there comes a point where continual disobedience will lead to judgment. Therefore, Jeremiah's prayers for the people are futile, as they must first repent and turn back to God in order to receive His mercy and forgiveness.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 11:14 contains a strong warning from God to the prophet, instructing him not to pray for the people who have turned away from Him. This verse reflects the severity of the people's rebellion and God's consequential judgment. In this context, the theological interpretation suggests that God's decision not to hear the prayers of the people is a result of their persistently sinful behavior and refusal to seek Him. The word study of this verse reveals that the term "cry" or "prayer" indicates a desperate plea or supplication, emphasizing the earnestness and importance of the people's cries for help. God's refusal to listen to their cries highlights the consequences of disobedience and serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of repentance and turning back to Him. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His word and the need for genuine repentance in order to receive His mercy and forgiveness.

American Standard Version

Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them; for I will not hear them in the time that they cry unto me because of their trouble.
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