Jeremiah 5:20

Declare this in the house of Jacob, and publish it in Judah, saying,

Jeremiah 5:20 (KJV)

Context

Jeremiah 5:20 opens a divine command to the prophet Jeremiah to proclaim a message to the people of Israel. This verse introduces a solemn indictment, calling Jeremiah to declare and publish the word so that all may hear.

The phrase “Declare this in the house of Jacob” refers to the whole nation of Israel, evoking the patriarch Jacob, who was renamed Israel. “Publish it in Judah” specifies the southern kingdom, composed mainly of the tribe of Judah. The command is public and urgent, ensuring that the message reaches the entire covenant community.

Meaning

The verse emphasizes the importance of spreading the word to the entire nation. By commanding Jeremiah to declare and publish, God underscores the urgency of the warning and His desire for His people to recognize their sinfulness and seek reconciliation with Him. The plural form of the Hebrew verbs suggests that the command may extend beyond Jeremiah to others as heralds, highlighting the corporate responsibility to proclaim God’s word.

Biblical connections

The following verse, Jeremiah 5:21, describes the people as foolish and senseless, having eyes but not seeing and ears but not hearing, which explains their spiritual dullness and the need for such a public declaration.

Application

Believers today are also called to declare God’s truth faithfully, even when it is unwelcome. The command to publish implies clarity and boldness, ensuring that the message of repentance and hope is heard by all who need it.

Reflection

Consider how readily you hear and heed God’s warnings. The same God who called Jeremiah to speak still calls His people to listen, repent, and proclaim His word to a world in need.