Old Testament

Jeremiah 29:18

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 declares His intention to punish those who have turned away from Him.

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

I will persecute them with the sword, famine, and disease, and I will scatter them to all the kingdoms of the earth, making them a curse, an astonishment, a hissing, and a reproach among all the nations where I have driven them.

KJVKing James Version

And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence, and will deliver them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse, and an astonishment, and an hissing, and a reproach, among all the nations whither I have driven them:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God declares His intention to punish those who have turned away from Him. He will use severe means such as war, famine, and disease to bring about their downfall. The consequences of their actions will lead to their scattering among various nations, where they will be seen as a curse and a source of shame. This reflects the seriousness of disobedience to God and the impact it has not only on individuals but also on communities. The imagery of being a 'curse' and 'astonishment' highlights how their rebellion will lead to a loss of dignity and respect among other nations. This serves as a warning about the repercussions of straying from God's commands and the importance of remaining faithful to Him, as the consequences can be dire and far-reaching. Explore related judgment.

How to apply Jeremiah 29:18 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of staying faithful to God. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and their potential consequences. By adhering to God's teachings, we can avoid the pitfalls of disobedience and maintain our integrity and dignity in our communities.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 29:18 mean?

Jeremiah 29:18 expresses God's warning of impending punishment for those who have turned away from Him. It indicates that He will use severe methods like war, famine, and disease to scatter them among the nations, making them a source of shame.

What is the significance of being a 'curse' in Jeremiah 29:18?

Being labeled a 'curse' in Jeremiah 29:18 signifies the disgrace and dishonor that will come upon those who disobey God. It highlights the serious consequences of rebellion against Him, affecting not just individuals but entire communities.

What does the phrase 'astonishment and hissing' mean in this verse?

The phrase 'astonishment and hissing' in Jeremiah 29:18 refers to the shock and ridicule that the scattered people will face from other nations. It illustrates how their disobedience will lead to a loss of respect and dignity.

What are the consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 29:18?

The consequences mentioned in Jeremiah 29:18 include persecution through the sword, famine, and disease, leading to the scattering of people among various nations. This serves as a warning about the dire outcomes of turning away from God.

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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