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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 6 - Verse 21

6:21
Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will lay stumblingblocks before this people, and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbour and his friend shall perish.

Meaning

Through this verse, the prophet Jeremiah conveys the message of divine judgment upon a disobedient and faithless people. The Lord warns that He will set up stumbling blocks before them, causing both the fathers and the sons to fall. This imagery of stumbling blocks represents the obstacles and consequences that will hinder their paths and ultimately lead to their downfall. The mention of the neighbors and friends perishing alongside one another signifies the widespread impact of God's judgment, affecting not only individuals but also communities and relationships. It serves as a sobering reminder of the collective responsibility and accountability of a nation before God. The verse emphasizes the severity of the impending judgment due to the people's continued disobedience and rejection of God's ways. As readers reflect on this verse, they are encouraged to seek repentance, turn away from sin, and wholeheartedly follow God in order to avoid the stumbling blocks that may lead to their own downfall.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the LORD is delivering a sobering message to the people, warning them of the consequences of their actions. The term "stumblingblocks" can be understood as obstacles or challenges that will cause the people to falter in their ways. By saying that both fathers and sons, as well as neighbors and friends, will fall together, it emphasizes the widespread impact of these stumbling blocks. This serves as a reminder that the consequences of disobedience affect not only the individual but also those around them. Through this verse, the LORD is highlighting the importance of unity, accountability, and collective responsibility within the community. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the need to be mindful of our actions and their potential implications on others. It serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the enduring love and justice of the LORD.

American Standard Version

Therefore thus saith Jehovah, Behold, I will lay stumbling-blocks before this people; and the fathers and the sons together shall stumble against them; the neighbor and his friend shall perish.
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