Old Testament

Jeremiah 2:27

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, God is highlighting the foolishness of people who worship idols made of wood and stone, treating them as if they are their true parents or creators.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

They say to a wooden idol, 'You are my father,' and to a stone, 'You gave birth to me.' They've turned their backs to me instead of their faces. But when trouble comes, suddenly they cry out, 'Get up and save us!'

KJVKing James Version

Saying to a stock, Thou art my father; and to a stone, Thou hast brought me forth: for they have turned their back unto me, and not their face: but in the time of their trouble they will say, Arise, and save us.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God is highlighting the foolishness of people who worship idols made of wood and stone, treating them as if they are their true parents or creators. This reflects a deep spiritual blindness, as they have turned away from God, who is their real source of life and protection. Instead of seeking God in their times of need, they rely on these lifeless objects. When trouble arises, they suddenly call out for help, expecting these idols to save them, despite having ignored God in their daily lives. This illustrates a common human tendency to seek help from false sources when in crisis, rather than maintaining a relationship with the true God who can genuinely assist them. Explore related idolatry.

How to apply Jeremiah 2:27 to your life

This verse encourages us to examine what we rely on in times of trouble. Are we turning to God or to other things that cannot help us? It reminds us to maintain a close relationship with God, so we can seek His help when we truly need it.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 2:27 mean?

Jeremiah 2:27 highlights the folly of idol worship, where people mistakenly treat lifeless objects like wood and stone as their creators or protectors. It shows how they turn away from God, their true source of life, and only call on Him in times of trouble.

What is the significance of idols in Jeremiah 2:27?

In Jeremiah 2:27, idols represent false security and spiritual blindness. The verse illustrates how people rely on these lifeless objects instead of seeking help from God, who is their real source of strength and salvation.

How does Jeremiah 2:27 relate to crisis response?

Jeremiah 2:27 reflects a common human tendency to seek help from false sources during crises. It serves as a reminder to rely on God instead of turning to ineffective idols when facing difficulties.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 2:27?

Key themes in Jeremiah 2:27 include idolatry, rejection of God, false security, crisis response, and spiritual blindness. These themes illustrate the dangers of relying on anything other than God for support and guidance.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah

The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.

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