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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 24 - Verse 3

24:3
Then said the LORD unto me, What seest thou, Jeremiah? And I said, Figs; the good figs, very good; and the evil, very evil, that cannot be eaten, they are so evil.

Meaning

Jeremiah, a prophet chosen by the LORD, had a vision where he saw two baskets of figs. This vision was more than just a depiction of fruit; it was a symbolic representation of the people of Judah. The good figs represented those who remained faithful to the LORD, while the bad figs symbolized those who had turned away from Him. The good figs were described as very good, signifying their righteousness and worthiness in the eyes of the LORD. On the other hand, the bad figs were deemed so evil that they were inedible, highlighting the severity of their wickedness and disobedience. Through this vision, the LORD was showing Jeremiah the division among His people and the consequences of their actions. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful and obedient to the LORD to avoid being counted among the evil figs.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 24 offers a vivid illustration of God's distinction between the righteous and the wicked. Through the metaphor of figs, God reveals to Jeremiah that just as there are good figs and inedible, rotten figs, there are people who are pleasing to Him and those who are morally corrupt. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's sovereignty in determining the fate of individuals based on their actions and their heart condition. The word studies on "good" and "evil" further highlight the moral divide that God sees in His people - those who are truly ripe for His kingdom and those who are so corrupted that they are beyond redemption. As readers engage with this passage, they are called to reflect on their own spiritual state and whether they are bearing "good fruit" or facing the consequences of being spiritually barren. Through this passage, God's justice and mercy are revealed, inviting His people to choose righteousness and turn away from wickedness.

American Standard Version

Then said Jehovah unto me, What seest thou, Jeremiah? And I said, Figs; the good figs, very good; and the bad, very bad, that cannot be eaten, they are so bad.
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