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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 17 - Verse 27

17:27
But if ye will not hearken unto me to hallow the sabbath day, and not to bear a burden, even entering in at the gates of Jerusalem on the sabbath day; then will I kindle a fire in the gates thereof, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem, and it shall not be quenched.

Meaning

This verse from Jeremiah 17:27 serves as a warning from God to the people of Jerusalem about the importance of observing the Sabbath day. In this passage, God tells the people that if they do not listen to His command to keep the Sabbath holy and refrain from carrying burdens on that day, He will bring destruction upon them. By kindling a fire in the gates of Jerusalem that will consume the palaces, God is showing His power and authority over His people. This verse emphasizes the significance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. It serves as a reminder to all believers to honor the Sabbath day and keep it holy, as a way to show reverence and respect for God.

Theological Overview

Jeremiah 17:27 provides a stern warning about the consequences of not honoring the Sabbath day as commanded by God. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of obedience and worship. By neglecting to hallow the Sabbath and carrying burdens on that day, the people of Jerusalem were not only breaking a specific commandment but also demonstrating a lack of reverence and respect for God's laws. The imagery of God kindling a fire in the gates of Jerusalem symbolizes divine judgment and destruction upon those who forsake His commandments. The phrase "it shall not be quenched" signifies the severity and permanence of God's punishment for disobedience. This verse serves as a reminder of the need for faithful observance of Sabbath rest and dedication to God's laws in order to avoid His righteous anger and ensure His blessings and protection.

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