How does Jeremiah 11:2 emphasize the importance of obeying God's covenant today? The Covenant Call in Jeremiah 11:2 “ ‘Hear the words of this covenant, and speak to the men of Judah and to the residents of Jerusalem.’ ” Key Insights from the Verse • “Hear” – not a casual listening, but attentive, receptive hearing that readies the heart for action (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4). • “The words of this covenant” – God’s covenant stipulations are verbal, specific, and binding; obedience is not optional. • “Speak to the men of Judah and to the residents of Jerusalem” – the command is communal, calling leaders and people alike to mutual accountability. Why Covenant Obedience Still Matters Today • God’s character has not changed. What He required of Judah, He still requires of His people (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). • The new covenant in Christ fulfills, not cancels, the demand for obedience (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10). • Blessing and judgment remain tied to response. Obedience invites God’s favor; rejection invites discipline (John 14:15, 23; Hebrews 12:5-11). Practical Ways to Live Covenant Obedience 1. Daily Scripture intake – “hear the words” by regular, unhurried reading and meditation (Psalm 1:2). 2. Speak the covenant – share biblical truth in family, church, and community settings, reinforcing mutual commitment (Colossians 3:16). 3. Examine motives – obey from love, not legalism (1 John 5:3). 4. Act promptly – translate hearing into doing (James 1:22-25). 5. Cultivate covenant community – encourage one another to steadfast obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 19:5 – “Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant…” • Deuteronomy 30:16 – obedience brings life and blessing. • Psalm 103:17-18 – God’s steadfast love “toward those who keep His covenant.” • John 15:10 – abiding in Christ’s love by keeping His commands. • Revelation 14:12 – saints defined as “those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” |
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