The Consequences of Worshiping Other Gods

Jeremiah 22:1–12
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The events, to which this chapter refers, occurred before chapter 21. In this chapter God says to Jeremiah, “I want you to go up and talk to the king himself, face to face.” This is the first time Jeremiah is sent to deliver a message to the face of the king himself (vv. 1, 2). So he accepts the responsibility to go the palace, and come before the king. Certain consequences were attached to what he had to say. His message to the king and the people that were there was for them to do what is just and right. If the king would be careful to observe God’s commandments he could expect continued blessing. However, if he chose to disobey these commands, God vowed that the royal palace would become a ruin (vv. 3-5).

Both Gilead and Lebanon were known for their forests (v. 6) and the palace in Jerusalem was known as the “Palace of the forests of Lebanon."  However, after God’s judgment the palace would be as desolate as a desert. The Babylonians would cut up the fine cedar beams of the palace and cast them into the fire (v. 7). As the people of other nations see this beautiful palace being destroyed they will ask; why has God permitted such a thing (v. 8). The answer is simply that God has judged this city because the people has forsaken the covenant and had worshiped other Gods (v. 9).

Application

We face somewhat similar times in our own day. Since I know that God is the same yesterday, today and forever I can be sure that judgment is coming. Lord, help me to be sounding the warning.