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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 3 - Verse 13

3:13
Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the LORD thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith the LORD.

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament serves as a reminder to acknowledge our sins and transgressions against the Lord. It highlights the importance of repentance and turning back to God after straying away and following false idols. The imagery of scattering one's ways to strangers under every green tree symbolizes the act of seeking fulfillment and guidance from sources other than God. By not obeying the voice of the Lord, one may become lost and disconnected from the path of righteousness. The verse is a call to reflection, confession, and a plea for forgiveness from the Almighty. It serves as a warning against the consequences of turning away from God's teachings and failing to heed His voice. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for humility, repentance, and obedience in order to realign oneself with God's will.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "acknowledge thine iniquity" carries a deep theological significance. The acknowledgment of sin is the first step towards reconciliation with God. By acknowledging our iniquity, we humble ourselves before the Lord and recognize our need for his forgiveness and mercy. This act of contrition opens the door for God to restore our relationship with him. The verse also speaks to the consequences of turning away from God and following after false gods. The imagery of scattering one's ways to the strangers under every green tree symbolizes the waywardness and spiritual adultery of the people. The phrase "have not obeyed my voice" highlights the importance of heeding God's commands and following his will. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance, obedience, and fidelity to the Lord in our walk with Him.

American Standard Version

Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against Jehovah thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith Jehovah.
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