What does Jeremiah 11:6 mean?
What is the meaning of Jeremiah 11:6?

Then the LORD said to me

• Scripture opens with God’s clear voice. The prophet’s authority rests on this divine initiation (Jeremiah 1:4–9; 2 Timothy 3:16).

• The moment reminds us that the Lord is personally involved in history, speaking real words to real people—words we can trust as fully accurate.

• Like Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:4–14) or Samuel in the tabernacle (1 Samuel 3:10), Jeremiah hears the living God who still speaks through His written Word today.


Proclaim all these words in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem

• The message is not to be whispered in private; it is announced where daily life happens—markets, gates, neighborhoods (Jeremiah 2:2; Proverbs 1:20-21).

• “All these words” underscores completeness. God withholds nothing needed for life and obedience (Deuteronomy 29:29; Acts 20:27).

• Public proclamation anticipates the Great Commission, taking God’s truth to every place and people (Matthew 28:19-20).


Hear the words of this covenant

• “Hear” means attentive, reverent listening (Deuteronomy 6:4; Psalm 78:1). God’s people must first receive before they can respond.

• “This covenant” points back to Sinai, where Israel pledged, “We will do everything the LORD has spoken” (Exodus 24:7). It is a solemn, binding relationship, not a casual arrangement (Deuteronomy 4:13).

• The call to hear anticipates the promised New Covenant, written on hearts rather than stone (Jeremiah 31:31-33; Hebrews 8:10).


and carry them out

• Hearing without doing is disobedience (James 1:22). Covenant blessings hinge on active obedience (Deuteronomy 29:9).

• Obedience flows from love and trust, not mere ritual (1 Samuel 15:22; John 14:15).

• Jesus echoes this principle: “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). The call is timeless—faith that works (Galatians 5:6).


summary

Jeremiah 11:6 captures a four-step pattern: God speaks, His servant announces, the people listen, and they obey. The verse affirms that Scripture is God’s literal, authoritative word, meant for public declaration, attentive hearing, and practical action. By embracing this pattern today, believers honor the covenant-keeping Lord and experience the blessings He delights to give.

Why is the promise in Jeremiah 11:5 important for understanding God's faithfulness?
Top of Page
Top of Page