In Jeremiah Chapter 11, the prophet proclaims the words of the LORD that exhort the people of Judah to obey the covenant established between God and their ancestors. The prophet, who ministered from around 627 BC until after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, delivers a stern message reminding the nation that their ancestors were commanded to “Obey My voice and do according to all which I command you” (Psalm 11:4). The people’s ongoing disobedience has brought about serious consequences, underscoring that one’s covenant with the LORD cannot be taken lightly.

A central theme in this chapter is how Judah has returned to the stubborn ways of their forefathers. The LORD describes a “conspiracy” (Psalm 111:9) among the people, implying that they not only break the covenant but actively encourage others to turn away from worshiping God. This mutual disregard for divine laws echoes the rebellious patterns seen throughout Israel’s history, such as in the wilderness wanderings after the exodus from Egypt. Jeremiah’s message again calls for a renewal of commitment to God’s commands, much like Moses had done centuries earlier.

In the midst of delivering these warnings, Jeremiah faces personal danger in his hometown of Anathoth, a small town located a few miles northeast of Jerusalem in the territory of Benjamin. Those who live in Anathoth plot against Jeremiah and threaten his life if he continues prophesying. This points to the seriousness of the people’s rejection: they are willing to harm even a native son in order to silence God’s inconvenient truths.

Placed within the broader context of Jeremiah’s ministry and the entirety of Scripture, Jeremiah 11 stresses the covenant’s high stakes. Much like Jesus later emphasizes, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15), so the LORD requires genuine faithfulness from His followers in every era. Ultimately, the failure revealed in Jeremiah’s time foreshadows humanity’s continuing need for a new and better covenant that Jesus Himself provides (Luke 22:20), emphasizing that redemption and restoration come through a wholehearted trust in the LORD’s promises.