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Jeremiah 17

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‹ Chapter 16 Jeremiah — All Chapters Chapter 18 ›

1 “The sin of Judah is written with an iron stylus, engraved with a diamond point on the tablets of their hearts and on the horns of their altars. 2 Even their children remember their altars and Asherah poles by the green trees and on the high hills. 3 O My mountain in the countryside, I will give over your wealth and all your treasures as plunder, because of the sin of your high places, within all your borders. 4 And you yourself will relinquish the inheritance that I gave you. I will enslave you to your enemies in a land that you do not know, for you have kindled My anger; it will burn forever." 5 This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes the flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD. 6 He will be like a shrub in the desert; he will not see when prosperity comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. 7 But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. 8 He is like a tree planted by the waters that sends out its roots toward the stream. It does not fear when the heat comes, and its leaves are always green. It does not worry in a year of drought, nor does it cease to produce fruit. 9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? 10 I, the LORD, search the heart; I examine the mind to reward a man according to his way, by what his deeds deserve. 11 Like a partridge hatching eggs it did not lay is the man who makes a fortune unjustly. In the middle of his days his riches will desert him, and in the end he will be the fool." 12 A glorious throne, exalted from the beginning, is the place of our sanctuary. 13 O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who abandon You will be put to shame. All who turn away will be written in the dust, for they have abandoned the LORD, the fountain of living water. 14 Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed; save me, and I will be saved, for You are my praise. 15 Behold, they keep saying to me, “Where is the word of the LORD? Let it come now!" 16 But I have not run away from being Your shepherd; I have not desired the day of despair. You know that the utterance of my lips was spoken in Your presence. 17 Do not become a terror to me; You are my refuge in the day of disaster. 18 Let my persecutors be put to shame, but do not let me be put to shame. Let them be terrified, but do not let me be terrified. Bring upon them the day of disaster and shatter them with double destruction. 19 This is what the LORD said to me: “Go and stand at the gate of the people, through which the kings of Judah go in and out; and stand at all the other gates of Jerusalem. 20 Say to them, ‘Hear the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, all people of Judah and Jerusalem who enter through these gates. 21 This is what the LORD says: Take heed for yourselves; do not carry a load or bring it through the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. 22 You must not carry a load out of your houses or do any work on the Sabbath day, but you must keep the Sabbath day holy, just as I commanded your forefathers. 23 Yet they would not listen or incline their ear, but they stiffened their necks and would not listen or receive My discipline. 24 If, however, you listen carefully to Me, says the LORD, and bring no load through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, and keep the Sabbath day holy, and do no work on it, 25 then kings and princes will enter through the gates of this city. They will sit on the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses with their officials, along with the men of Judah and the residents of Jerusalem, and this city will be inhabited forever. 26 And people will come from the cities of Judah and the places around Jerusalem, from the land of Benjamin, and from the foothills, the hill country, and the Negev, bringing burnt offerings and sacrifices, grain offerings and frankincense, and thank offerings to the house of the LORD. 27 But if you do not listen to Me to keep the Sabbath day holy by not carrying a load while entering the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day, then I will kindle an unquenchable fire in its gates to consume the citadels of Jerusalem.’"

‹ Chapter 16 Jeremiah — All Chapters Chapter 18 ›

Study Notes — Jeremiah 17

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Chapter Summary

Jeremiah 17 begins with a prophecy against Judah, warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience. The chapter then shifts to a discussion of the heart, highlighting its tendency to deceive and the importance of trusting in God. Jeremiah 17:5-8 contrasts the person who trusts in man with the person who trusts in God, emphasizing the blessings of the latter. The chapter also includes a warning against breaking the Sabbath and a prophecy against those who do not trust in God. Throughout the chapter, Jeremiah emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.

Context for the Chapter

Jeremiah 17 is part of the larger context of the book of Jeremiah, which is a prophetic book that warns of the consequences of Judah's disobedience and idolatry. The chapter is situated in the midst of a series of prophecies against Judah, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God and His ways. The chapter also looks forward to the coming Messiah, who will bring redemption and restoration to God's people. In the larger biblical narrative, Jeremiah 17 is part of the story of God's relationship with His people, highlighting the importance of faithfulness and obedience.

Heart Application

The chapter's emphasis on the heart's deceitfulness and the importance of trusting in God serves as a warning to believers to examine their own hearts and to trust in God's ways. The chapter's themes also encourage believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, one that is characterized by trust, obedience, and faithfulness. By applying the principles of Jeremiah 17, believers can experience the blessings of a heart that trusts in God and avoid the dangers of a hardened heart.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Jeremiah 17 is a chapter that warns us about the dangers of trusting in ourselves and our own strength. It tells us that our hearts can be deceitful and that we need to trust in God instead. The chapter also promises blessings to those who trust in God, including peace and prosperity. In Jeremiah 17:7-8, we see a picture of the believer who trusts in God, which is a great encouragement to us to trust in Him as well.

Voices from the Church

“The heart is a fortress, and it is only when God has taken possession of it that it can be said to be truly surrendered to Him.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The heart is a deep well, and it is only when we have explored its depths that we can truly understand the nature of our own sinfulness and the greatness of God's mercy.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to the Chapter (17:1-4) — The chapter begins with a prophecy against Judah, warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience. The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.
  2. The Heart's Deceitfulness (17:5-10) — The chapter highlights the heart's tendency to deceive, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than relying on one's own understanding or strength. The prophet contrasts the person who trusts in man with the person who trusts in God, emphasizing the blessings of the latter.
  3. The Importance of Trust (17:11-13) — The concept of trust is woven throughout the chapter, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than man or oneself. The prophet warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, highlighting the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God.
  4. The Consequences of Disobedience (17:14-18) — The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, highlighting the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God. The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.
  5. Conclusion (17:19-27) — The chapter concludes with a warning against breaking the Sabbath and a prophecy against those who do not trust in God. The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.

Core Doctrines

Total Depravity
The chapter's emphasis on the heart's deceitfulness and desperate wickedness highlights the doctrine of total depravity, which teaches that humanity is completely sinful and unable to save itself. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:9, where the heart is described as 'deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.'
Justification by Faith
The chapter's emphasis on the importance of trusting in God rather than man or oneself highlights the doctrine of justification by faith, which teaches that salvation comes through faith in God alone. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:5-8, where the person who trusts in God is contrasted with the person who trusts in man.
Sanctification
The chapter's emphasis on the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength, highlights the doctrine of sanctification, which teaches that believers are to be set apart for God's use. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:11-13, where the prophet warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry.
God's Sovereignty
The chapter's emphasis on God's judgment and sovereignty highlights the doctrine of God's sovereignty, which teaches that God is in control of all things and that His will is supreme. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:1-4, where the prophet warns of the consequences of Judah's idolatry and disobedience.

Lessons from Jeremiah 17

  1. The Importance of Humility — The chapter teaches us the importance of humility and recognizing our own limitations and weaknesses. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:9, where the heart is described as 'deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.'
  2. The Dangers of Self-Reliance — The chapter warns us of the dangers of self-reliance and trusting in our own strength, rather than trusting in God. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:5-8, where the person who trusts in man is contrasted with the person who trusts in God.
  3. The Blessings of Trusting in God — The chapter teaches us about the blessings of trusting in God, including peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:7-8, where the person who trusts in God is described as being 'like a tree planted by water.'
  4. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and trusting in His ways. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:11-13, where the prophet warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry.
  5. The Sovereignty of God — The chapter teaches us about the sovereignty of God and His control over all things. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:1-4, where the prophet warns of the consequences of Judah's idolatry and disobedience.

Themes from Jeremiah 17

  1. Trust — The concept of trust is a major theme in Jeremiah 17, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than man or oneself. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:5-8, where the person who trusts in God is contrasted with the person who trusts in man.
  2. Deception — The chapter highlights the theme of deception, emphasizing the heart's tendency to deceive and the importance of trusting in God. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:9, where the heart is described as 'deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.'
  3. Blessings — The chapter teaches us about the blessings of a heart that trusts in God, including peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:7-8, where the person who trusts in God is described as being 'like a tree planted by water.'
  4. Judgment — The chapter warns us of the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:1-4, where the prophet warns of the consequences of Judah's idolatry and disobedience.
  5. Sovereignty — The chapter teaches us about the sovereignty of God and His control over all things. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:1-4, where the prophet warns of the consequences of Judah's idolatry and disobedience.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does the chapter teach about the heart's tendency to deceive, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
  2. How does the chapter emphasize the importance of trusting in God, and what are the consequences of not doing so?
  3. What does the chapter teach about the blessings of a heart that trusts in God, and how can we experience these blessings in our own lives?
  4. How does the chapter's emphasis on the heart's deceitfulness and the importance of trusting in God relate to the gospel and our salvation?
  5. What are some practical ways that we can apply the principles of Jeremiah 17 to our own lives, and how can we trust in God more fully?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to the Chapter (17:1-4)

17:1 The chapter begins with a prophecy against Judah, warning them of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience.
17:2 The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.

2. The Heart's Deceitfulness (17:5-10)

17:5 The chapter highlights the heart's tendency to deceive, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than relying on one's own understanding or strength.
17:6 The prophet contrasts the person who trusts in man with the person who trusts in God, emphasizing the blessings of the latter.

3. The Importance of Trust (17:11-13)

17:11 The concept of trust is woven throughout the chapter, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than man or oneself.
17:12 The prophet warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, highlighting the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God.

4. The Consequences of Disobedience (17:14-18)

17:14 The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, highlighting the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God.
17:15 The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.

5. Conclusion (17:19-27)

17:19 The chapter concludes with a warning against breaking the Sabbath and a prophecy against those who do not trust in God.
17:20 The prophet emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the chapter teach about the heart's tendency to deceive?

The chapter teaches that the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, and that we should not trust in our own understanding or strength. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:9, where the heart is described as 'deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.'

How does the chapter emphasize the importance of trusting in God?

The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God by contrasting the person who trusts in man with the person who trusts in God, and by warning of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:5-8, where the person who trusts in God is described as being 'like a tree planted by water.'

What are the blessings of a heart that trusts in God?

The chapter teaches that the blessings of a heart that trusts in God include peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:7-8, where the person who trusts in God is described as being 'like a tree planted by water.'

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Jeremiah 17:9 → Psalm 51:10 The concept of the heart's deceitfulness is also found in Psalm 51:10, where David prays for a clean heart and a renewed spirit.
2 Jeremiah 17:5-8 → Proverbs 3:5-6 The concept of trusting in God rather than man or oneself is also found in Proverbs 3:5-6, where Solomon warns against trusting in one's own understanding and encourages trust in God.
3 Jeremiah 17:11-13 → Isaiah 40:28-31 The concept of God's sovereignty and control over all things is also found in Isaiah 40:28-31, where the prophet emphasizes God's power and wisdom.
4 Jeremiah 17:14-18 → Matthew 15:18-20 The concept of the heart's deceitfulness and the importance of trusting in God is also found in Matthew 15:18-20, where Jesus teaches about the heart's tendency to deceive and the importance of trusting in God.
5 Jeremiah 17:19-27 → Hebrews 4:12 The concept of God's word being living and active is also found in Hebrews 4:12, where the author emphasizes the power and effectiveness of God's word.
6 Jeremiah 17:1-4 → Romans 1:18-25 The concept of God's judgment on those who do not trust in Him is also found in Romans 1:18-25, where Paul warns of the consequences of idolatry and disobedience.
7 Jeremiah 17:5-8 → John 15:1-5 The concept of the believer being like a tree planted by water is also found in John 15:1-5, where Jesus teaches about the importance of abiding in Him.
8 Jeremiah 17:9 → Ephesians 4:17-24 The concept of the heart's deceitfulness and the importance of trusting in God is also found in Ephesians 4:17-24, where Paul warns against the dangers of a hardened heart and encourages trust in God.
9 Jeremiah 17:11-13 → 2 Corinthians 1:20-22 The concept of God's sovereignty and control over all things is also found in 2 Corinthians 1:20-22, where Paul emphasizes God's faithfulness and trustworthiness.
10 Jeremiah 17:14-18 → 1 Peter 1:13-16 The concept of the importance of trusting in God and His ways is also found in 1 Peter 1:13-16, where Peter encourages believers to trust in God and to live holy lives.

Sermons on Jeremiah 17

SermonDescription
Billy Graham Crusade 1957 by Billy Graham This sermon emphasizes the importance of examining and surrendering our hearts to God. It delves into the sinful, wicked, rebellious, and hardened nature of the human heart, highli
David Wilkerson A Time to Do Nothng but Trust by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jonathan and the Israelites facing a massive army of Philistines. The Israelites were greatly outnumbered and lacked weapons, lea
Chuck Missler Esther #3 Ch. 5-7 by Chuck Missler In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Esther from the Bible. He highlights a scene where the king wants to reward Mordecai, but Haman, who wants to hang Mordecai, co
A.W. Tozer The Plague of the Heart by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of sin and its stealthy nature. He highlights the fact that many people refuse to acknowledge the presence of sin in their hearts.
Art Katz The Two Judaisms by Art Katz In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the materialistic mindset prevalent in America, where success is measured by wealth and possessions. He acknowledges the struggle of those wh
Paul Washer The Judgment of God and the Great White Throne! by Paul Washer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of God's revelation and warns about the consequences of its removal. He highlights that on Judgment Day, all the knowledge an
A.W. Tozer Practical Aspects of the Holy Spirit - Promise of a Father by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the speaker discusses three periods in the disciples' journey after Jesus' departure. The first period is characterized by Jesus intensifying His teaching and prepa
A.W. Tozer Plague of His Own Heart by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. He shares a story of a 15-year-old boy who committed a cold-blooded murder and reflects
David Wilkerson Laying by the Pool by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of a man who had been lying by a pool for 38 years, hoping for healing. The pool was surrounded by a crowd of people, with the stro
Art Katz Jeremiah, the Persecuted Prophet by Art Katz In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for filmmaker Steven Spielberg to be stripped of his worldly success and brought into the wilderness of the nations. This wilderness

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Jeremiah 17

In Jeremiah 17, we see the prophet warning the people of Judah about the dangers of trusting in themselves and their own strength, rather than trusting in God. The chapter highlights the heart's tendency to deceive and the importance of trusting in God, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?' (Jeremiah 17:9). The chapter also emphasizes the blessings of a heart that trusts in God, including peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. As Henry comments, 'Those who trust in God shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat comes, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit' (Jeremiah 17:8). Overall, the chapter teaches us about the importance of trusting in God and His ways, rather than relying on human wisdom or strength, and encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Heart's Deceitfulness

The chapter highlights the heart's tendency to deceive, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than relying on one's own understanding or strength. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:9, where the heart is described as 'deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.'

The Importance of Trust

The concept of trust is woven throughout the chapter, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God rather than man or oneself. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:5-8, where the person who trusts in God is contrasted with the person who trusts in man.

The Consequences of Disobedience

The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, highlighting the judgment that comes to those who do not trust in God. This is seen in Jeremiah 17:1-4, where the prophet warns of the consequences of Judah's idolatry.

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