Meaning and Interpretation

This passage reads: “Do not be a terror to me; you are my refuge in the day of disaster.” Here, Jeremiah is pleading with God amidst turmoil. He seeks assurance, demonstrating the relationship between faith and fear.

Public Domain Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes that Jeremiah is in a state of distress, deeply aware of his vulnerability. Henry highlights the importance of God as a refuge, noting that believers can find shelter in Him during times of trouble.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes discusses the psychological and spiritual turmoil that accompanies prophetic duties. He notes that Jeremiah's fears don't stem from his enemies alone, but also from the weight of his calling, encouraging believers to seek God's presence.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke illustrates the plea as one born out of a sense of isolation and despair. He elaborates on the dual aspect of terror: the external pressures from enemies and the internal fear of failing God.

Connections and Cross-References

This verse can be explored through various layers of Scripture. Here are important cross-references to consider:

• Psalms 18:2: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.” - Similar themes of God as a refuge can be seen here.
• Psalms 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” - This reaffirms God's role as a place of safety.
• Isaiah 25:4: “For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress…” - Reflects God's protective nature in times of distress.
• Lamentations 3:57: “You came near when I called you, and you said, ‘Do not fear.’” - Echoes the call for reassurance from God during troubled times.
• Matthew 10:28: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul…” - Jesus speaks to fear, emphasizing reliance on God.
• Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything…” - A New Testament encouragement parallel that reassures believers to seek God's peace.
• 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” - Encourages trust in God during anxious times.
• Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence…” - Reinforces the need for believers to seek refuge and grace from God.
• John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…” - Christ's provision of peace amidst fear resonates with Jeremiah’s plea.
• Proverbs 14:26: “Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge.” - Implies the dual protection of God and the importance of a healthy fear of Him.

Thematic Connections

This verse illustrates key themes within the Bible, particularly the relationship between fear and faith. The role of God as a refuge is a recurring motif, linking Jeremiah’s experience with that of believers throughout Scripture.

• Faith in Adversity: Jeremiah's situation encapsulates the universal struggle of maintaining faith during dark times, a theme found throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
• God as Refuge: The protection and solace provided by God are significantly highlighted in multiple Psalms, demonstrating a pattern of divine reassurance.
• The Nature of Prophetic Ministry: Many prophets express fear or distress, reinforcing the burdens associated with delivering God’s messages.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 17:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the believer's dependence on God during tumultuous times. It ties together various themes of protection, the psychological aspects of faith, and the call to seek refuge in divine assurance.

This verse's exploration through cross-referencing establishes a robust framework for understanding not only Jeremiah’s plight but also the broader Biblical narrative on themes like fear, faith, and divine shelter.