Old Testament
Jeremiah 17:19
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The LORD told me, "Go and stand at the gate of the children of the people, where the kings of Judah enter and exit, and at all the gates of Jerusalem."
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Thus said the LORD unto me; Go and stand in the gate of the children of the people, whereby the kings of Judah come in, and by the which they go out, and in all the gates of Jerusalem;
What Jeremiah 17:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Jeremiah to stand at the gates of Jerusalem, where the kings of Judah enter and exit. This location is significant because it is a place of authority and decision-making. By positioning himself there, Jeremiah is to deliver God's message to the people as they come and go, emphasizing the importance of their actions and choices. The gates symbolize access to the city and the heart of the nation, making it a strategic spot for conveying God's warnings and guidance. This command highlights the urgency of Jeremiah's mission to call the people back to faithfulness and obedience to God, especially in a time of moral decline. The gates also represent the entry points of influence and leadership, reminding the people that their leaders must align with God's will. Jeremiah's presence at the gates serves as a visual reminder of God's presence and the need for repentance among the people of Judah.
How to apply Jeremiah 17:19 to your life
We should be attentive to where we are called to speak truth and share God's message. Just as Jeremiah was positioned at the gates, we can find opportunities in our daily lives to influence others positively and encourage them to follow God's ways.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 17:19 mean?
Jeremiah 17:19 describes God's command to the prophet Jeremiah to stand at the gates of Jerusalem, where the kings enter and exit. This location is significant for delivering God's message to the people, emphasizing the importance of their choices and the need for repentance.
What is the significance of the gates in Jeremiah 17:19?
The gates in Jeremiah 17:19 symbolize access to the city and the heart of the nation. They represent places of authority and decision-making, highlighting the need for the leaders and people to align their actions with God's will.
What is the main message of Jeremiah 17:19?
The main message of Jeremiah 17:19 is a call for the people of Judah to return to faithfulness and obedience to God. By standing at the gates, Jeremiah serves as a reminder of God's presence and the urgency of repentance during a time of moral decline.
How can we apply Jeremiah 17:19 in our lives today?
We can apply Jeremiah 17:19 by being aware of where we are called to share truth and encourage others. Like Jeremiah at the gates, we can find opportunities in our daily lives to positively influence those around us and promote God's ways.
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