• Download Video
• Download Audio
• Print
• Email
• Save As PDF

"Indeed their ear is uncircumcised"

Text: Jeremiah 6:10

UNABLE AND UNWILLING TO LISTEN

There was such depth of wisdom in the word of God given to the prophets to preach. The Lord’s word was relevant, practical, personal and much more. Yet, the word preached virtually went unheeded!

“Thus says the LORD of hosts:
‘They shall thoroughly glean as a vine the remnant of Israel;
As a grape-gatherer, put your hand back into the branches.’
To whom shall I speak and give warning,
That they may hear?
Indeed their ear is uncircumcised,
And they cannot give heed.
Behold, the word of the LORD is a reproach to them;
They have no delight in it.'”
Jeremiah 6:9-10

1. “Thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘They shall thoroughly glean as a vine the remnant of Israel;
as a grape-gatherer, put your hand back into the branches.'”

a) This was a direct and urgent word from God.

b) It carried authority and depth of discernment.

c) What the Invaders would do:

i) They would be like gleaners.

ii) Nothing would be left on the vine.

iii) Even the remnant would be plucked clean by the Invaders.

iv) These grape gatherers would keep putting their hands back to the branches, making sure that not even one grape would be left on the vine.

2. “To whom shall I speak and give warning, that they may hear?”

a) This was a sad lament.

b) Who indeed would hear these words of warning?

3. “Indeed their ear is uncircumcised, and they cannot give heed.”

a) The idea of an “uncircumcised ear” is an idiom.

b) Ears cannot be circumcised.

c) Meaning:

i) Their ears had become unclean.

ii) They are clogged up!

iii) They are so badly blocked they are virtually deaf.

4. “Behold, the word of the LORD is a reproach to them; they have no delight in it.”

a) The word of God was reproachful.

b) There was no desire or delight in the word of the Lord.

i) There was no interest.

ii) No understanding.

iii) No appreciation for the word of God, let alone love for it.