How does Jeremiah 48:35 highlight God's judgment against idolatry in Moab? Verse under focus “Moreover, I will put an end to anyone in Moab who offers sacrifices on the high places and burns incense to his gods,” declares the LORD. — Jeremiah 48:35 How the verse exposes Moab’s idolatry - “High places” were outdoor shrines where pagan rites flourished; God identifies them as the nerve-center of Moab’s rebellion. - “Burns incense to his gods” pinpoints deliberate, ongoing devotion to Chemosh and other false deities (cf. Jeremiah 48:7, 13). - The phrase “put an end” shows judgment is final—no compromise, no partial reform. God’s judgment spelled out - Removal of worshipers = removal of worship. By cutting off the practitioners, God erases the practice itself. - Public, not private. This judgment happens “in Moab,” witnessed by the nation and neighboring peoples (cf. Jeremiah 48:41-42). - Mirrors His commands to Israel: Deuteronomy 12:2-3 ordered destruction of every high place; the same standard now falls on Moab. What this reveals about God - Holy: He refuses to share glory with idols (Isaiah 42:8). - Sovereign over all nations: Moab cannot hide behind ethnic boundaries (Acts 17:26-31). - Faithful to His word: Earlier warnings (Jeremiah 48:10-13) are carried out exactly. Supporting Scriptures - Numbers 21:29 – Moab’s long allegiance to Chemosh. - 1 Kings 11:7 – High places for Chemosh in Israel foreshadow judgment. - Isaiah 16:12 – Moab’s futile trips to high places. - Psalm 96:5 – “All the gods of the nations are idols.” Timeless lessons - Idolatry invites certain judgment, whether ancient altars or modern substitutes (Colossians 3:5). - God’s patience has limits; His justice will act when idols persist (Acts 17:30-31). - Only turning to the true God delivers from the fate that befell Moab (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10). |
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