Old Testament
Jeremiah 26:4
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Tell them, 'The LORD says: If you refuse to listen to me and follow my law that I've laid out for you —
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And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; If ye will not hearken to me, to walk in my law, which I have set before you,
What Jeremiah 26:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah, urging the people to listen to His commands. He emphasizes the importance of following the laws He has established for them. The message is clear: if they choose to ignore His guidance, they will face consequences. This reflects God's desire for His people to live in accordance with His will, which is meant to lead them to a better life. The call to listen and obey is not just about following rules; it is about building a relationship with God and understanding His intentions for their lives. The laws are presented as a pathway to righteousness and fulfillment, and the refusal to heed them signifies a rejection of God's authority and love. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of being attentive to God's voice and the implications of disobedience.
How to apply Jeremiah 26:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively listen to God's guidance in our lives. By studying His Word and seeking His will, we can align our actions with His laws. Ignoring His instructions can lead to negative consequences, so it’s vital to remain attentive and obedient.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Jeremiah on Trial (Jeremiah 26:1–24)
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Jeremiah

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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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 26:4 mean?
Jeremiah 26:4 conveys God's message through the prophet Jeremiah, urging the people to listen to His commands and follow His laws. It highlights the importance of obedience and the consequences of ignoring God's guidance.
What is the significance of God's law in Jeremiah 26:4?
In Jeremiah 26:4, God's law represents His guidance for living a righteous life. Following these laws is essential for maintaining a relationship with God and avoiding negative consequences.
What happens if we ignore God's message in Jeremiah 26:4?
Ignoring God's message in Jeremiah 26:4 leads to consequences, as it signifies a rejection of His authority and love. The verse warns that disobedience can result in negative outcomes in one's life.
How can we apply Jeremiah 26:4 to our lives today?
We can apply Jeremiah 26:4 by actively listening to God's guidance through prayer and studying His Word. This helps us align our actions with His laws and avoid the pitfalls of disobedience.
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