Overview

This passage from Jeremiah reflects God's displeasure with the practices that had infiltrated Judah, specifically the worship of Baal and the horrific practice of child sacrifice to Molech. The verse reveals the stark contrast between God's commands and the actions of the people, emphasizing the deep moral and spiritual failures they had succumbed to.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes the gravity of the abominations committed by Judah, highlighting that such practices not only provoked God's anger but also demonstrated a complete departure from prescribed worship. The mention of "high places" symbolizes the spiritual compromise present in the nation.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes the historical context, suggesting that the construction of high places for Baal represented a rejection of true worship. He elaborates that God's statement about these abominations shows how far the people had strayed from His righteous ways, to the point where such acts never crossed His mind as permissible.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out the significance of the Valley of Hinnom, explaining its dark reputation associated with idolatry and child sacrifice. He presents a view that illustrates God's sorrow in witnessing His creation engage in such horrific practices, contrasting it with His desire for life and obedience.

Thematic Connections

This verse serves as a pivotal point for understanding the themes of idolatry, divine judgment, and the call for repentance. It raises questions about obedience and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Relevant Bible Verse Cross-References:

• Leviticus 18:21: Prohibiting child sacrifice.
• 2 Kings 23:10: Josiah's reforms and his destruction of places where children were sacrificed.
• Jeremiah 7:31: God's condemnation of child sacrifice.
• Ezekiel 20:31: God reflecting on the people's actions with disdain.
• Isaiah 30:33: Reference to Tophet, a location associated with sacrifices.
• Micah 6:7: Queries about the appropriateness of offerings to God.
• Romans 12:1: Call for believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices.

Connecting the Scriptures

This passage allows a comprehensive Bible cross-reference study highlighting other scriptures that address similar themes of idolatry, divine displeasure, and the sanctity of life.

• Theme: Idolatry and its Consequences
• Exodus 20:3-5 - Commandments against idolatry.
• 1 Corinthians 10:14 - Encouragement to flee from idolatry.
• Theme: Divine Judgment
• Hebrews 10:31 - The terror of falling into God's hands.
• Revelation 20:11-15 - The final judgment.
• Theme: The Value of Human Life
• Psalm 127:3 - Children as a heritage from the Lord.
• Matthew 19:14 - Jesus' teaching about the importance of children.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 32:35 operates as a powerful reminder of the dangers of deviating from God's commands and engaging in practices that harm societal values. By understanding this verse within its broader scriptural context, believers can better appreciate the importance of fidelity to God's word and the severe repercussions that accompany idolatry.