“Should I not avenge Myself on such a nation as this?”
The concept of avenging oneself is tied to God's role as the ultimate judge and protector of His covenant. The nation referred to is Judah, which had turned away from God despite His repeated calls for repentance. This phrase suggests a legal and moral obligation for God to act against sin, aligning with His holiness. The idea of divine vengeance is echoed in Nahum 1:2, where God is described as avenging and wrathful. Historically, this period was marked by political instability and external threats, such as the rise of Babylon, which God used as an instrument of judgment. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who will execute final judgment (Acts 17:31), yet also offers redemption through His sacrifice. The phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of national and personal sin.

Jeremiah 5 has already laid out a catalogue of national sins. In verses 26-28 the Spirit spotlights wicked men who “lie in wait,” fattening themselves on the vulnerable. Earlier, verse 23 calls the people “rebellious and defiant;” verse 24 says they refuse to fear the God who sends rain; verse 27 pictures homes “full of deceit.” So when God asks, “Should I not punish them for these things?” He is pressing a moral certainty: His righteousness demands real consequences.

• Scripture never treats sin as a private matter when it infects a culture. Think of Isaiah 5:20-25, where societal evil draws the same question: “How could God not act?”

• God’s holiness is consistent. Romans 1:18 affirms that “the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness.” Proverbs 11:21 adds, “Be sure of this: the wicked will not go unpunished.”

• The word “punish” in context means measured, covenantal discipline, not capricious anger. Hebrews 12:6 reminds believers that “the Lord disciplines the one He loves,” showing that judgment flows from His character, not mere irritation.

By inserting His own name, God underlines the weight behind the statement. This isn’t Jeremiah’s opinion; it is divine proclamation.

• Jeremiah 1:9 recounts how the LORD touched the prophet’s mouth and said, “I have put My words in your mouth,” making every “declares the LORD” a signature of absolute authority.

• Isaiah 1:2 opens in similar fashion—“Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the LORD has spoken”—reminding us that when God speaks, creation is called to listen.

• Hebrews 6:17 points out that God, “wanting to make the unchanging nature of His purpose very clear,” confirms His word with an oath. The phrase here functions like that oath, sealing the certainty of coming judgment.

The second question widens from punishment to vengeance—God’s personal vindication.

• Deuteronomy 32:35-36 shows the same logic: “Vengeance is Mine, and recompense,” followed by a promise to judge His people. God’s honor is at stake when covenant partners mock His law.

• Nahum 1:2 calls the LORD “a jealous and avenging God,” emphasizing that vengeance is not petty retaliation but the rightful defense of His glory.

• Romans 12:19 tells believers, “Leave room for God’s wrath,” because He alone can judge perfectly. Here in Jeremiah 5, that divine prerogative focuses on “such a nation”—a collective that has institutionalized injustice.

• Psalm 94:1-2 cries, “O LORD, God of vengeance, shine forth!” God’s answer in Jeremiah 5 is essentially, “I will.”

Practical takeaways:

– National sin invites national accountability; personal comfort never negates communal responsibility.

– God’s vengeance safeguards His holiness and ultimately protects the oppressed (Jeremiah 5:28; Psalm 72:12-14).

– The same God who disciplines also offers mercy (Jeremiah 5:1; 3:12). Judgment is severe, but repentance remains open until the gavel falls.

Jeremiah 5:29 is a double rhetorical question rooted in God’s justice and covenant faithfulness. Because Judah’s sins were flagrant and systemic, the LORD affirms that punishment is inevitable and vengeance unavoidable. His own character demands it, His spoken word guarantees it, and His concern for both oppressed people and His holy name propels it. The verse stands as a sober reminder: when a society persists in rebellion, divine judgment is not just likely—it is morally necessary.