Old Testament
Jeremiah 18:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
but that nation does what is evil and refuses to obey me, then I will repent of the good I had promised to do for them.
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If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.
What Jeremiah 18:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God communicates a conditional promise regarding nations and their behavior. If a nation chooses to act wickedly and disobeys God's commands, He will reconsider the good things He intended to do for them. This reflects God's justice and the principle that blessings are tied to obedience. It emphasizes that God's favor is not automatic; it requires a response from the people. The verse serves as a warning that actions have consequences, and it highlights the importance of aligning with God's will. The idea of God 'repenting' of good signifies a change in His plans based on the nation's choices, illustrating the dynamic relationship between God and humanity. This verse encourages individuals and nations to reflect on their actions and the importance of obedience to divine guidance.
How to apply Jeremiah 18:10 to your life
This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences, both individually and collectively. It encourages us to seek obedience to God's will in our lives. By aligning our choices with His guidance, we can experience His blessings and avoid the repercussions of turning away from Him. Reflect on your actions and their alignment with God's desires.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: The Potter's House (Jeremiah 18:1–12)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 18:10
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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 18:10 mean?
Jeremiah 18:10 conveys that if a nation acts wickedly and disobeys God, He will reconsider the good He intended for them. This highlights the connection between obedience and receiving God's blessings.
What is the significance of God's repentance in Jeremiah 18:10?
In this verse, God's 'repentance' signifies a change in His plans based on the nation's actions. It illustrates that God's favor is conditional upon the behavior of the people.
How does Jeremiah 18:10 relate to divine justice?
Jeremiah 18:10 reflects divine justice by showing that blessings are tied to obedience. It emphasizes that nations must align with God's will to receive His favor.
What are the consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 18:10?
The consequences in Jeremiah 18:10 indicate that if a nation disobeys God, they may lose the good things He had promised. This serves as a warning about the repercussions of turning away from divine guidance.
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