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The people of Judah and Jerusalem were not helpless. They continually chose their sin over God. The point being made in this chapter is that God’s justice is inevitable if sin becomes natural and essential to our character. Although this seems like a logical and fair conclusion, people today are shocked and offended that God would allow consequences to fall on the ungodly.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7 NASB
Foolishly, the people of Judah and Jerusalem rejected the Lord. They gave Him lip service but did not fear Him. Because of this, their hearts were darkened and they worshipped false gods. Consequences would follow.
This is what grieved Jeremiah’s heart. It’s as if the people could not come to a healthy fear of God without this punishment. In many ways, this entire situation further illustrates our need for a Savior. With each historical event like this, humanity has proven that the law cannot change our hearts or free us from the wrath of sin. We needed atonement for our sins of the past, present, and future. We received that in Jesus Christ!