Jer. 9:23-26 In this world of sin and sorrow, ending soon in death and judgement, how foolish
for men to glory in their knowledge, health, strength, riches, or in any thing which leaves them
under the dominion of sin and the wrath of God! and of which an account must hereafter be rendered;
it will but increase their misery. Those are the true Israel who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in
Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Let us prize the distinction which comes from
God, and will last for ever. Let us seek it diligently.
Chapter 10
The absurdity of idolatry. (Jer. 10:1-16) Destruction denounced against Jerusalem. (Jer. 10:17-25)Jer. 10:1-16 The prophet shows the glory of Israel's God, and exposes the folly of idolaters.
Charms and other attempts to obtain supernatural help, or to pry into futurity, are copied from the
wicked customs of the heathen. Let us stand in awe, and not dare provoke God, by giving that glory
to another which is due to him alone. He is ready to forgive, and save all who repent and believe
in the name of his Son Jesus Christ. Faith learns these blessed truths from the word of God; but all
knowledge not from that source, leads to doctrines of vanity.
Jer. 10:17-25 The Jews who continued in their own land, felt secure. But, sooner or later,
sinners will find all things as the word of God has declared, and that its threatenings are not empty
terrors. Submission will support the believer under every grief allotted to him; but what can render
the load of Divine vengeance easy to be borne by those who fall under it in sullen despair? Those
cannot expect to prosper, who do not, by faith and prayer, take God with them in all their ways.
The report of the enemy's approach was very dreadful. Yet the designs which men lay deep, and
think well formed, are dashed to pieces in a moment. Events are often overruled, so as to be quite
contrary to what we intended and expected. If the Lord has directed our steps into the ways of peace
and righteousness, let us entreat him to enable us to walk therein. Say not, Lord, do not correct me;
but, Lord, do not correct me in anger. We may bear the smart of God's rod, but we cannot bear the
weight of his wrath. Those who restrain prayer, prove that they know not God; for those who know
him will seek him, and seek his favour. If even severe corrections lead sinners to be convinced of
wholesome truths, they will have abundant cause for gratitude. And they will then humble themselves
before the Lord.
Chapter 11
The disobedient Jews reproved. (Jer. 11:1-10) Their utter ruin. (Jer. 11:11-17) The people would
be destroyed who sought the prophet's life. (Jer. 11:18-23)