Understanding Jeremiah 6:28

Jeremiah 6:28 states:

"They are all grievous revolters, walking with slanders: they are brass and iron; they are all corrupters."

Summary of Meaning

This verse, taken from the Book of Jeremiah, reflects God's condemnation of the people of Judah for their unfaithfulness and rebellion against Him. Jeremiah, often referred to as the "weeping prophet," delivers messages of sorrow and judgment due to the persistent sinfulness of the nation. In this particular verse, the imagery of 'brass and iron' indicates a hard-heartedness and a stubbornness that prevents them from repenting and returning to God.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Matthew Henry explains that the designation of the people as "grievous revolters" reveals their persistent disobedience and deceit. This phrase emphasizes their recurrent turning away from God and their tendency to slander rather than uphold truth and righteousness.

• Albert Barnes:

  Albert Barnes interprets the phrase 'walking with slanders' as indicative of their behavior toward each other and God. Their actions reflect a society steeped in corruption, where truth is easily discarded, leading to societal decay.

• Adam Clarke:

  Adam Clarke notes that the comparison of the people to 'brass and iron' serves to highlight their hardened hearts. The metaphor suggests that their rejection of God's word rendered them so corrupt in heart and mind that they are impervious to the calls for repentance.

Bible Verse Cross-References

To enhance our understanding of Jeremiah 6:28, we can look at the following cross-references:

• Ezekiel 36:26: "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh." - This verse contrasts the hard-heartedness of Jeremiah 6:28 with the promise of a new heart.
• Isaiah 1:4: "Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity..." - Here, similar condemnation of the nation's sins reinforces the message found in Jeremiah.
• Proverbs 28:24: "Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer." - This verse reflects the moral corruption and deceit described in Jeremiah.
• Ezekiel 22:30: "And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none." - The lack of righteousness among the people is echoed here.
• Matthew 15:18: "But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man." - This connects to the slanderous behavior mentioned in Jeremiah.
• Romans 1:28-32: The moral depravity of society is reflected in these verses, emphasizing how turning away from God leads to corruption.
• James 4:7-8: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." - This verse encourages a return to godliness that contrasts with the rebellion described in Jeremiah.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

Jeremiah 6:28 can be connected to the broader themes of:

• Rebellion Against God: Many biblical instances detail the consequences of turning away from God.
• Moral Corruption: The Bible frequently examines the condition of the heart and its implications for behavior.
• Call to Repentance: Many scriptures lead back to God’s call for sinners to return and seek forgiveness.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

Understanding the connections and cross-references among Biblical texts gives deeper insight into themes of divine judgment and human disobedience. By analyzing these verses, readers can gain greater comprehension of the Biblical narrative and its calls for repentance and restoration.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 6:28 serves as a poignant reflection of the consequences of unrepentant hearts and continual rebellion against God. The insights from various public domain commentaries illuminate the depth of the message, while the cross-references allow for a comparative analysis of similar themes throughout Scripture. Engaging with the interconnectedness of these verses not only enhances our understanding of biblical teachings but also offers a guide to living in accordance with God's will.

For those seeking to study the Bible, utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing and employing a comprehensive Bible cross-reference system can illuminate the connections and themes of scripture effectively.