Sixth Sunday after Epiphany Jeremiah 17:5-10

Ancient Lens

What can we learn from the historical context?

Prophetic Struggles

The job of a prophet does not appear to have been pleasant. Jeremiah struggles with the message he is entrusted to deliver to Judah and with the callous reception by the people. As is unfortunately the habit of God’s people, they have turned their back on God and taken on the character of the peoples around them. Their idol worship is so commonplace that the children can’t help but notice its presence all around them.

This is not sin or idolatry that is hidden, it is public and part of a normal life of Judah. 

Deep Sin and Consequences

The way Jeremiah describes this state of the nation…

1. What areas of life seem to have the most power in drawing your trust away from God? Why do you think so?

2. Do you think we’ll always see the ways those areas let us down? How long can something like money or power keep up the facade of security?

3. Have you had experiences that you look back on and wonder, “How did I ever think that was a good idea?” What do you draw from those experiences?