Understanding Jeremiah 13:15
Verse: Jeremiah 13:15
Text: "Hear and give ear; be not proud: for the LORD hath spoken."
Summary of Meaning
This verse serves as a divine appeal for humility in the face of God's pronouncement. It calls upon the people of Israel to listen attentively to the Lord’s warnings and to approach Him with reverence rather than pride. Commentators suggest that the emphasis on hearing indicates the importance of receiving God's message rather than ignoring it.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
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Matthew Henry's Commentary
Henry emphasizes the importance of being attentive to God's words. He suggests that pride often blinds individuals to divine truths. The call to humility is crucial as it prepares the heart to accept God’s instructions. By urging them not to be proud, God is inviting a response of repentance and attentiveness.
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Albert Barnes' Notes
Barnes reflects on the context of this verse within the larger narrative of Jeremiah’s prophecies. He notes that the proud attitudes of the people led them away from righteousness. The call to 'hear' is a reminder that awareness of God’s voice is essential for spiritual recovery.
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Adam Clarke's Commentary
Clarke points out that the mention of the Lord speaking highlights the seriousness of the situation. He interprets 'be not proud' as a warning against self-reliance. Clarke encourages readers to acknowledge their need for divine guidance and to resist the temptation of arrogance.
Cross References for Further Study
To gain a deeper understanding of Jeremiah 13:15, consider exploring the following Bible verses:
- Proverbs 18:12: "Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility."
- James 4:6: "But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."
- Psalms 138:6: "Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off."
- Isaiah 66:2: "For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word."
- 1 Peter 5:5: "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble."
- Micah 6:8: "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
- Matthew 11:29: "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."
Thematic Bible Verse Connections
Jeremiah 13:15 reflects themes of humility, the necessity of listening to God, and the consequences of pride. These themes appear repeatedly throughout Scripture. Cross-references serve as tools to explore these connections further, allowing for a richer understanding of Biblical principles.
Conclusion
In summary, Jeremiah 13:15 serves as a vital reminder of the importance of humility and attentiveness to God's voice. The connections drawn with other scriptures enrich one's understanding of the biblical message regarding pride and the necessity of heeding divine warnings.
Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing
Using a Bible concordance, cross-reference guide, or comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials can aid in locating related verses, enhancing one's study of scripture.
How to Use Bible Cross-References
Identify keywords within Jeremiah 13:15, such as "hear," "proud," and "LORD," and search for these terms in tools designed for Bible cross-referencing. This method can reveal thematic connections and enhance one's understanding of the broader biblical narrative.
