Diverted vine

Jeremiah 2:20-28 (New International Version)

20 "Long ago you broke off your yoke and tore off your bonds; you said, 'I will not serve you!' Indeed, on every high hill and under every spreading tree you lay down as a prostitute. 21 I had planted you like a choice vine of sound and reliable stock. How then did you turn against me into a corrupt, wild vine? 22 Although you wash yourself with soda and use an abundance of soap, the stain of your guilt is still before me," declares the Sovereign LORD. 23 "How can you say, 'I am not defiled; I have not run after the Baals'? See how you behaved in the valley; consider what you have done. You are a swift she-camel running here and there, 24 a wild donkey accustomed to the desert, sniffing the wind in her craving — in her heat who can restrain her? Any males that pursue her need not tire themselves; at mating time they will find her. 25 Do not run until your feet are bare and your throat is dry. But you said, 'It's no use! I love foreign gods, and I must go after them.' 26 "As a thief is disgraced when he is caught, so the house of Israel is disgraced — they, their kings and their officials, their priests and their prophets. 27 They say to wood, 'You are my father,' and to stone, 'You gave me birth.' They have turned their backs to me and not their faces; yet when they are in trouble, they say, 'Come and save us!' 28 Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble! For you have as many gods as you have towns, O Judah.

I) Message

Content:

1. The Israelites betrayed God and submitted themselves to prostitution in all things. (Idol worshipping)(v20)
2. The Israelites’ betrayal is like planting pure seeds, but growing out corrupted wild vine. (v21)
3. The Israelites’ sinful crimes are internal; therefore they can’t be washed. (v22)
4. The Israelites’ corrupt departing from God is such as animals when they are in heat, running here and there, striking aimlessly. (v23-25)
5. The house of Israel is disgraced, they, their kings, officials, priests, prophets, and leaders. (v26)
6. The Israelites turned their backs from God by worshipping false gods, yet in times of trouble, they seek God for help. (v27)
7. The false gods, such as clay idols, can’t even save them when they are in trouble. (v28a)
8. The false gods whom the Israelites worship were countless. (v28b)

Themes: 1. Diverted vine

2. Turning your backs to God and not your faces

II) Who is God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit?
1. God, rejected and betrayed by his chosen people (v20, v25, v27)

2. God, closely examining people’s hearts (v21-22)

3. God, anticipating for His people to turn back to Him (v25)

4. God, saving His people from trouble (v27)

III) What does the passage teach us (about commands, promises, examples, exhortations and warnings)?

1. The crime of adultery (v20-25)
   "Long ago you broke off your yoke and tore off your bonds; you said, 'I will not serve you!' Indeed, on every high hill and under every spreading tree you lay down as a prostitute. – You are a swift she-camel running here and there, a wild donkey accustomed to the desert, sniffing the wind in her craving — in her heat who can restrain her? Any males that pursue her need not tire themselves; at mating time they will find her. (v21-24)

This clearly points out: the Israelites worshipped idols, followed their ways, just like on every high hill and under every spreading tree, laying down as a prostitute. These are also spiritual aspects of infidelity, affair, betrayal and adultery.

Reflections: God is the only true God. Is my relationship with God the same as a marriage, forever loyal and faithful?

2. Diverted vine (v21)
   I had planted you like a choice vine of sound and reliable stock. How then did you turn against me into a corrupt, wild vine? (v21)
   In this passage, the vine represents the Israelites, saying: God planted the best seed to grow out the best vine, yet how come it grew out something else, something poorer, into worthless branches? This illustration of the people of Israel shows their faith deteriorating and sidetracking.
   Reflections: If I were a vine, can I maintain my original purity? Or have I already diverted?
   
3. A non-surface kind of filth (v22)
   Speaking of the sins the Israelites committed, the prophet Jeremiah said: Although you wash yourself with soda and use an abundance of soap, the stain of your guilt is still before me. (v22)

This means that the sins Israel committed, were not only external but have become internal. Therefore, even various cleaning agents can’t remove sin’s residues.
Reflections: Can the blood of Jesus Christ wash the root of sin in one’s life?

4. Like wild animals in heat (v23-25)
   "How can you say, 'I am not defiled; I have not run after the Baals'? See how you behaved in the valley; consider what you have done. You are a swift she-camel running here and there, a wild donkey accustomed to the desert, sniffing the wind in her craving — in her heat who can restrain her? Any males that pursue her need not tire themselves; at mating time they will find her Do not run until your feet are bare and your throat is dry. But you said, 'It's no use! I love foreign gods, and I must go after them.'(v23-25)
   Concerning the Israelites’ spiritual promiscuity, the prophet Jeremiah describes them as mad beasts running wildly, striking anything, tending solely to their sexual desires, without even knowing whom they have illicit sexual relations with. In fact, even Taiwan had such cases in which many people were addicted to playing the lottery. They’d even worship random idols in the middle of the night just so “maybe” they could land on the lucky lottery numbers.
   Reflections: In this passage, the Israelites were described in such a low manner, what does this remind us of?

5. Disgraced leaders (v26)
   The prophet Jeremiah recounts God’s word saying: "As a thief is disgraced when he is caught, so the house of Israel is disgraced — they, their kings and their officials, their priests and their prophets. (v26)
   Those who were accused of not holding responsibility for “Israel’s spiritual fall” consists of four positions, the kings, the officials, the priests, the prophets, whom also are condemned today. Not only are the people of Israel disgraced, even the four posts that God established are to be disgraced, just like when a thief being disgraced when caught and arrested.
   Reflections: Do the Church, the ministry team, and the family leaders see their responsibilities in this passage?
   
6. Useless chosen people (v27-28)
   They say to wood, 'You are my father,' and to stone, 'You gave me birth.' They have turned their backs to me and not their faces; yet when they are in trouble, they say, 'Come and save us!' Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble! (v27-28)
   Since wood and stone were materials used for carving out Baal (gods), that’s why the prophet Jeremiah seriously said: You, who call wood father and stone mother, will be put to shame. Moreover, with a tone of irony, he said: “Where then are the gods you made for yourselves? Let them come if they can save you when you are in trouble!” In reality, these wood and stone idols simply can’t even rescue people, and can further be described as: A clay idol fording a river is hardly able to save itself.
   Reflections: What/Whom do I depend on? Can I fully depend on Almighty God?
   
   IV) My Prayers / Life Applications

Translated by Susan T.

When Israel and her descendants were accused by God.

耶利米書02：09-19 (Jeremiah 02:9-19)

2:9 所以，我─上主要再控告自己的子民；我要指控他們的後代。2:10 你們往西到基提島看一看！你們派人往東到基達查一查！你們就知道，天下從沒有發生這種事：2:11 雖然偶像不是真神，沒有任何國家更換過自己的神明；但我的子民竟把賜榮耀給他們的上帝跟毫無用處的偶像調換。2:12 我要使諸天戰慄恐懼，驚惶失措。2:13 因為我的子民犯了雙重的罪：他們離棄我─活水的泉源；他們挖掘不能蓄水的水池。2:14 以色列是奴隸嗎？是生而為奴的嗎？為甚麼敵人要追捕他呢？2:15 敵人像獅子向他張牙咆哮；敵人使他的良田變成荒野，使他的城邑成為廢墟，無人居住。2:16 挪弗人和答比匿人敲破了他的頭顱。2:17 以色列啊，你自己招來這災禍！當我一路帶領你的時候，你離棄了我─上主、你的上帝。2:18 現在你到埃及去有甚麼益處？想喝尼羅河的水嗎？你到亞述去有甚麼好處？想喝幼發拉底河的水嗎？2:19 你自己的罪惡要懲罰你；你的叛逆要控告你。你將體會並明白：離棄了我─上主、你的上帝，不敬畏我，是多麼嚴重的罪！我─至高的上主、萬軍的統帥這樣宣佈了。

⁹ "Therefore I bring charges against you again,” declares the LORD. "And I will bring charges against your children's children. ¹⁰ Cross over to the coasts of Kittim and look, send to Kedar and observe closely; see if there has ever been anything like this: ¹¹ Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods at all.) But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols. ¹² Be appalled at this, O heavens, and shudder with great horror," declares the LORD. ¹³ "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water. ¹⁴ Is Israel a servant, a slave by birth? Why then has he become plunder? ¹⁵ Lions have roared; they have growled at him. They have laid waste his land; his towns are burned and deserted. ¹⁶ Also, the men of Memphis and Tahpanhes have shaved the crown of your head.¹⁷ Have you not brought this on yourselves by forsaking the LORD your God when he led you in the way? ¹⁸ Now why go to Egypt to drink water from the Shih ? And why go to Assyria to drink water from the River? ¹⁹ Your wickedness will punish you; your backsliding will rebuke you. Consider then and realize how evil and bitter it is for you when you forsake the LORD your God and have no awe of me," declares the Lord, the LORD Almighty.

一、中心內容：Core Message

內容：Content
1>上帝對以色列百姓的作為感到質疑，並提出控告。（v9-13）

The people of Israel followed worthless idols and rebelled against God. God

questioned and brought charges against them and their descendants. (v9-13)

2>以色列百姓對上帝不忠的結局。（v14-19）

The outcome of the people of Israel that forsook God. (v14-19)

主題：Theme
1>遭上帝控告時。 When Israel and her descendants were accused by God.
2>選民不忠的結局。 The result of the chosen people by God who forsook Him.

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？Who is God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit?

1>因為犯罪的緣故，控告（爭辯）自己選民的上帝。（v9）

God brought charges against the people who were chosen by Him, because they

forsook God. (v9)
2>賜下榮耀給祂選民的上帝。（v11）

God bestowed glory to His people.
3>掌管宇宙萬物（諸天戰慄恐懼，驚惶失措）的上帝。（v12）

God reigns on heaven and on earth. (Be appalled at this, O heaven and shudder with great horror) (v12)

4>活水的泉源上帝。（v13）God is the spring of living water. (v13)
5>一路引領選民的上帝。（v17）God leads His people’s way. (v17)
6>遭祂選民遺棄的上帝。（v17、v19）God was forsook by His chosen people. (v17,19)
7>配得敬畏的上帝。（v19）God is worthy to be awed. (v19)
8>萬軍之統帥上帝。（v19）Almighty God (v19)

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？
What lessons (command, covenant, role modeling, rebuking and warning)

are god teaching us?

1>何事惹上帝提告 Why God brought charges against them
這段經文當中，先知首先提到上帝的話語說：我上主要再控告自己的子民；我要指控他們的後代。（v1）

Verse 1: prophet Jeremiah mentioned: “Therefore I bring charges against you and I will bring charges against your children’s children” declares the Lord.

我們都知道，上帝是充滿慈愛的上帝，祂愛自己的選民都來不及了，怎麼會對他們提出告訴呢？甚至也對他們的後代提出告訴？理由非常清楚，就是因為祂的選民毀約、背叛、離棄祂。
經文中所出現「爭辯（控告）」這個名詞，是法律用語，也就是正式向法庭提出告訴的意思。尤其根據當時以色列百姓的情境，此事一旦送上法庭，其判決必然對他們不利，因為他們一而再，再而三的違約。因此，必受嚴厲的懲罰。

反省：何事惹上帝提告？我的所作所為，是否合上帝心意？是否抵擋上帝？甚至惹怒了上帝，導致讓上帝對我們提告？

We all know that God is filled with love, He loves His chosen people. Why would God bring charges against His people and against their children’s children? The reasons are very clear, because the chosen people broke the covenants, they betrayed and forsook Him. “Charge” (accusation) is a law terminology, it means you accuse formally or explicitly in court. At that time among the Israeli, once a charge had been sent to court, the verdict would be very disadvantageous to them. Naturally, they would be punished severely, because they had broken the covenants of God again and again.

Reflection: Do I meet God’s will or go against it? Or have I done something terrible to infuriate God to make Him bring charges against me?

2>離棄真神事假神 People leave God to glorify worthless idols
以色列百姓這種「離棄真神，事奉假神」的愚蠢行徑，令上帝感到納悶，也因此提出質疑，說：我的百姓為何棄善行惡？又說：雖然偶像不是真神，但是從來沒有任何國家（註），更換過自己的神明；但是我的子民竟然把賜榮耀給他們的上帝，跟毫無用處的偶像給調換了。
也就是離棄了活水的泉源，選擇那破裂不能貯水的池子，真是叫人感到訝異！
註：文中提到「基提」與「基達」兩地名。基提位居西邊的賽浦路斯；基達地處巴勒斯坦以東的沙漠地帶。以上兩地都是外邦人居住之地。

The Israeli left God to worship worthless idols. That was a sheer stupidity. Therefore, God questioned His people because of their weakness in forsaking Him and in burning incense to other gods. He said: “Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods at all.) But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols. And they have forsaken me; the spring of living water and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water. O heavens, and shudder with great horror,” declares the Lord.

P.S. Kittims is located at the west side of Cyprus. Kedar is a desert region located at the east side of Palestine where were the habitations of the Gentile.
反省：回顧自己的過去，是否擁有「離棄真神，事奉假神」的痛苦經歷？以後還會嗎？還敢嗎？

Reflection: Have I ever had any painful experiences of forsaking God and glorified

those worthless idols in the past? Will I ever dare to do it in the future?

3>比外邦人還不如 Israeli’s worship attitude were worse than the gentile
在這段經文當中，特別指出：不管西邊的基提，還是東邊的基達等，這些居住在外邦之地的人民。尚且不會將他們所事奉的「假神」替換掉，何況事奉真神的以色列百姓，竟然將所事奉的「真神」給替換掉。就這一點來說，以色列百姓顯然比外邦人還不如。

Whether it is Kittim or Kedar or any other place where the habitations of the Gentile were, they didn’t change their (yet they are not gods at all) gods. But the Israeli (God’s chosen people) changed to serve worthless gods. So, the Israeli were worse than the Gentile.

就以今天的情境來看，有人開玩笑的說：假神真拜，真神假拜。意思就是說：外邦人所祭拜的雖然是假神，但是他們的態度，卻像拜真神那樣敬虔；反過來說，基督徒所敬拜的是獨一的真神，但是態度卻是那麼不敬虔，就好像拜假神一樣的行禮如儀，甚至表裏不一。因此，就敬拜的態度來說，當今有許多基督徒，反而不如非基督徒。

From nowadays point of view, there are some people that say in a humorous way: Devout worship in worthless idols, impious to God. The Gentile worship in worthless idols. But their worship attitude is very religious and pious as if they worship the true God. On the other hand, we Christians worship the only true God. But our worship attitude is not so devout. We worship ceremoniously as if it were to worthless idols. It is an act duplicity. So from the aspect of worship attitude, there are a lot of Christian’s whose religious attitudes are worse than non Christian.

反省：我的敬拜態度如何？是否真神假拜？還是真神真拜？我的敬拜、事奉態度，比起外邦人將會是過之？還是不及？

Reflection: How is my attitude of worship to God? Is my worship and service

attitude better or worse than the Gentile?

4>自討苦吃的選擇 The decision they made will bring on them disaster they cannot

escape.

先知耶利米接著指出，愚蠢的以色列百姓，竟然做出這種「自討苦吃」的選擇。因為看見他們即將成為列國的僕人、奴隸，甚至掠物，而感到著急。
事實上，以色列百姓並非生來就是如此，他們原本擁有尊貴、榮耀的身份，也是擁有自由與特權的人。然而，由於錯誤的選擇，如今竟即將淪落成為人家的奴隸。因為他們選擇捲入南方埃及，以及北方亞述的政治紛擾當中。如此遭遇，實在是自尋煩惱，甚至是自討苦吃。因此，上帝透過先知耶利米不斷詢問說：這事臨到你身上，不是你自招的嗎？又問：百姓為什麼選擇這惡事呢？

The prophet Jeremiah pointed out that the Israeli were foolish for making this kind of decision that brought on them a disaster they cannot escape. Jeremiah was very worried because the word came to him from Lord that they were going to be captivated, to become servants and slaves of nations. In fact, the Israeli were not born like this. They had honorable and a glorious status. Also, they had freedom and privileges. But their wrong choice brought on them the becoming of slaves of other nations. For their incorrect decision to change their ways, they got involved with south Egypt and north Assyria’s political conflict. They looked for trouble and asked for the punishment. The word of the Lord kept coming to Jeremiah: “Have you not brought this on yourselves by forsaking the LORD your God when he led you in the way?” “Why do they forsake me?”

反省：所謂「敬酒不喝，喝罰酒」的俗語，我是否擁有這樣的經驗？就信仰上來說，我是否經歷過因離棄上帝，而選擇自討苦吃的經驗？
Reflection: Have I ever experienced consequences for not taking the good, but the bad

decision? Have I ever experienced consequences for forsaking God and asking for punishment in my faith life.

5>勿依靠人當靠神 We should trust in God, not to rely on people.
先知耶利米也指出：以色列百姓不依靠上帝，卻依靠列強（尤其依靠埃及）的罪。因為埃及與亞述的行徑，就是專門蹂躪他國人民。因此，猶大跟外邦國家結盟的結果，不僅無法使國家長治久安，反而造成「引狼入室」的後果。讓自己的國家陷入萬劫不復當中！
因此，切記！不要倚靠任何勢力，應該全然仰望上帝！

The Prophet Jeremiah also indicated: the Israel people committed the sin of not trusting in God, but relying on other nations (especially Egypt). Nations were ravaged by Egypt and Assyria. So Judah allied with gentile nations. It did not bring peace, but brought trouble and caused the fall of their nation into a bad situation that was never to be recovered. So, remember to not rely on power, but to rely on God completely.

反省：在事奉過程當中，我較多倚靠關係、倚靠才能？還是完全倚靠上帝？

Reflection: Do I rely more on talent and relation or just totally on God during

my service?

Translated into English by Teresa Yang

Forgetting God’s mercy and goodness.

2:1 上主吩咐我2:2 向耶路撒冷的居民這樣說：我記得，你年輕時對我多麼情深！蜜月期間，你多麼愛我！你和我走過荒野，經過沒有耕種的地方。2:3 以色列啊，你是我神聖的子民，是專屬於我，是初熟的果子。誰傷害你，我就降災禍給誰。我─上主這樣宣佈了。2:4 雅各的後代，以色列的各支族啊，你們要聽上主的話！2:5 上主這樣說：究竟你們的祖先發現我有甚麼不對，他們竟離棄了我，去跟從虛無的偶像，使自己成為虛無。2:6 雖然我救他們脫離埃及，領他們經過荒野：崎嶇不平的沙漠，乾旱驚險的曠野，沒有人煙足跡，他們仍然不理我。2:7 我把他們帶到肥沃的土地去，讓他們享受土產和美物。但他們糟蹋了我的土地，污染了我賜給他們的地方。2:8 祭司從來不問：上主在哪裏？我的祭司不認識我。統治者背叛我；先知奉巴力的名說預言，拜毫無用處的偶像。

Jeremiah 2:1-8 (NIV)

Israel Forsakes God

¹ The word of the LORD came to me: ² "Go and proclaim in the hearing of Jerusalem:
" 'I remember the devotion of your youth,
how as a bride you loved me
and followed me through the desert,
through a land not sown.

³ Israel was holy to the LORD,
the firstfruits of his harvest;
all who devoured her were held guilty,
and disaster overtook them,' "
declares the LORD.

⁴ Hear the word of the LORD, O house of Jacob,
all you clans of the house of Israel.

⁵ This is what the LORD says:
"What fault did your fathers find in me,
that they strayed so far from me?
They followed worthless idols
and became worthless themselves.

⁶ They did not ask, 'Where is the LORD,
who brought us up out of Egypt
and led us through the barren wilderness,
through a land of deserts and rifts,
a land of drought and darkness, ^[a^]
a land where no one travels and no one lives?'

⁷ I brought you into a fertile land
to eat its fruit and rich produce.
But you came and defiled my land
and made my inheritance detestable.

⁸ The priests did not ask,
'Where is the LORD?'
Those who deal with the law did not know me;
the leaders rebelled against me.
The prophets prophesied by Baal,
following worthless idols.

一、中心內容：

內容：
1>回顧過去上帝與猶大之間真誠的的愛。（v1-3）Reminiscence of the commitment shared by God and Judah. (v1-3)
2>猶大離棄上帝，祭拜偶像。（v4-6）Judah betrayed God and worshiped idols. (v4-6)
3>猶大玷污了上帝所賜的土地。（V7-8）Judah defiled the land given by God. (v7-8)

主題：
1>忘恩負義。Forgetting God’s mercy and goodness.
2>愛的背叛。Betrayal of love

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

1>向人啟示、與人說話的上帝。（v1）God reveals and speaks to mankind. (v1)
2>期待以色列百姓歸向祂的上帝。（v3）God expected the return of the Israelites. (v3)
3>聖潔的上帝。（v3）God is holy and pure. (v3)
4>保護祂子民的上帝。（v3）God protected His people. (v3)
5>拯救以色列百姓（帶領出埃及）的上帝。（v6）God saved and led the Israelites. (v6)
6>帶領以色列百姓進入肥美之地的上帝。（v7）God brought His people into the fertile land. (v7)
7>豐富的預備與供應的上帝。（v7）The abundant provisions of God. (v7)

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？

1>領受話語的條件Positioning oneself to receive God’s Word
先知耶利米說：上帝的話臨到我（上帝這樣吩咐我）。他雖然沒有明確交代上帝的話語，到底藉著什麼樣的方式臨到他。但是我們可以確定一件事，就是：先知能夠如此領受上帝的話語，絕對有一個先決條件，就是：個人與上帝之間，擁有非常親密的屬靈交通。
因此，我們如果期待經常領受上帝的話語，以便更明白上帝的心意，甚至進一步與上帝同行，有一個非常重要的前提，就是：常常跟上帝保持親密的屬靈交通。
反省：我的靈修生活如何？每天忙碌的生活當中，是否擁有個人的曠野？
Though the prophet Jeremiah said that God’s words came to him (God instructed me), but he did not specify how. One thing we can be sure of is that the intimate spiritual relationship between God and men serves as the prerequisite in receiving God’s words. Thus, if we were to constantly expect a word from God; to know of His will; to walk with Him; we need to keep an intimate spiritual relationship with Him at all times.

Reflection: How is my devotional life? Is there a personal desert in my busy life?
2>癡情丈夫的哀愁 a compassionate husband’s mourning
上帝吩咐耶利米，對以色列百姓說：我記得，你年輕時對我多麼情深！蜜月期間，你多麼愛我！你和我走過荒野，經過沒有耕種的地方。以色列啊，你是我神聖的子民，是專屬於我，是初熟的果子。誰傷害你，我就降災禍給誰。我─上主這樣宣佈了。（v2-3）

² "Go and proclaim in the hearing of Jerusalem: " 'I remember the devotion of your youth, how as a bride you loved me and followed me through the desert, through a land not sown. ³ Israel was holy to the LORD, the firstfruits of his harvest; all who devoured her were held guilty, and disaster overtook them,' " declares the LORD. (v2-3)

這是一首詩，這首詩的內容，是在描述上帝回顧過去，跟以色列百姓之間，所擁有那份特殊、親密的情愛，就像「恩愛的夫妻」（上帝是丈夫，以色列百姓是妻子）一樣，即便經過艱苦的歲月，以色列百姓依然忠於祂。

It is a poem of God’s reminiscence of the past relationship with the Israelites. Their relationship was like that of a husband and wife in a very special and intimate way. (God was the husband and the Israelites the wife.) Their steadfast love carried them through all the difficult years. The Israelites were faithful to God back then.
此外，以色列百姓也是上帝所分別，專屬於祂的百姓。所以凡是侵犯到他們（以色列百姓）的，上帝必為他們追討。表示：上帝無微不至的護衛著他們。

Besides, they were the people whom were set apart by God and solely belonged to Him. Whoever insulted them would be punished by Him. They were well taken care of by Him.
然 而，曾幾何時，妻子的愛，竟然消失得無影無蹤，也就是移情別戀了。因此，上帝以「遭妻子無故遺棄的丈夫」來比喻自己。由於過去那段「以愛廝守」的甜蜜歲 月，實在令祂難以忘懷。所以就以哀怨的口吻說：難道我有什麼錯，導致妻子移情別戀？否則，她為何離棄我，去隨從那毫無價值，不值得愛的假神呢？

However, the wife’s love for him had gone, she had given her love to someone else. Therefore, God used the metaphor of a husband being betrayed by his wife to describe Himself. He could not forget the sweet and happy days with His wife, therefore He mourned, “What did I do wrong that my wife left me? If I did nothing wrong, why did she leave Me for the false gods who are worthless and unworthy of her love?”
反省：上帝對我們癡情的愛，我能夠體會嗎？在我的生命當中，是否永遠讓上帝居首位？還是早已移情別戀了？就是移情到金錢、名譽、地位，或其他事物。
Reflection: Do I understand God’s compassionate love? Do I let God be in the first place of my life? Or do I turn my love away from Him into love for money, reputation, social status and other things?
3>玷污神所賜的地 Defiling the land given by God
上帝說：我把他們帶到肥沃的土地去，讓他們享受土產和美物。但他們糟蹋了我的土地，污染了我賜給他們的地方。（v7）

I brought you into a fertile land, to eat its fruit and rich produce. But you came and defiled my land, and made my inheritance detestable. (v7)
上 帝好不容易，將祂的子民領出埃及，走過荒野（曠野），經過沒有耕種的地方。進入流奶與密之地（上帝賜福的迦南地）。照理說，以色列百姓應該存著感恩與敬畏 的心，確實遵守上帝的命令才對。但是，非常可惜，以色列百姓竟然忘恩負義，也就是在上帝所賜的土地上，祭拜起其他的神明來。如果以夫妻關係來形容，以色列 百姓道道地地的犯了姦淫罪。因此，上帝非常難過的說：他們糟蹋了我的土地，污染了我賜給他們的地方。

God had brought them out of Egypt and led them through the barren wilderness; the unsown land, into a land of milk and honey, the Promised Land. It would be reasonable that they be grateful and reverent to God and faithfully obey His commands. Yet, they forgot the goodness and mercy of God. They worshiped the false gods in the land where God had brought them. They committed adultery in terms of the relationship of a husband and wife. Therefore, God sorrowfully said that they had devastated and defiled the land He had given them.
反省：在上帝面前，我是否忘恩負義？是否糟蹋恩典？是否污染了上帝的地方？
Reflection: From God’s perspective, do I forget His goodness and mercy? Do I trash God’s grace? Do I defile God’s place?
4>屬靈領袖的責任 The responsibilities of spiritual leaders
祭司從來不問：上主在哪裏？我的祭司不認識我。統治者背叛我；先知奉巴力的名說預言，拜毫無用處的偶像。（v8）

⁸ The priests did not ask, 'Where is the LORD?' Those who deal with the law did not know me; the leaders rebelled against me. The prophets prophesied by Baal, following worthless idols. (v8)
面對以色列百姓離棄上帝、祭拜偶像一事，先知在此特別指出，當時有四種職位的人，首該負起責任。這四種職務就是：祭司、傳講律法的、官長、先知。

When faced with the matter of the Israelites abandoning God and worshiping idols, the prophet particularly pointed out that people who held the following positions should be held accountable: the priests, the teachers of the law, the officials and the prophets.
a祭司：祭司的職責，就是藉著獻祭禮儀，使人與上帝和好。如果祭司盡忠職守，百姓跟上帝的關係就會得著建立。

1. The priests: They were in charge of the rituals of offering which served as reconciliation between God and men. If they were faithful to their responsibility, the relationship between God and men would have been properly established.
   b傳講律法的（呂：處理禮節規矩的）：傳講律法的人，就是祭司和利未人，同樣因為怠忽職守，沒有將上帝的律法、上帝的審判，正確的告知百姓。所以，百姓的靈性，才會淪落到如此地步，才會有這種忘恩負義的事發生。
2. The teachers of the law: The Levites and the priests were in charge of the law. They were negligent in keeping their duties and did not correctly teach God’s law and judgment. Thus, people were led astray and forgot God’s goodness and mercy.
   c官長（呂：牧民者、現：統治者）：由於統治者沒有照上帝所定的原則來統治，莫怪百姓頹廢、國家落敗。
3. The officials: The officials did not rule according to God’s principles. It was no wonder that the people backslid and that the whole country regressed.
   d先知（呂：神言人）：照理說，先知應該忠實傳講上帝的話語才對，但是當時的先知，竟然藉著外邦神明巴力說預言（假先知），而不傳達上帝的話語。
4. The prophets: They ought to be truthful and faithful in speaking God’s word. However, instead of fulfilling their duty, they spoke for Baal instead of God.
   反省：靈性的興盛與敗落，屬靈領袖扮演著相當重要的角色。包括：國家、教會、單位、家庭等。如：身為家長的我，對兒女的信仰，是否看到自己的責任？
   Reflection: The spiritual leaders play an important role in the ups and downs of people’s spiritual growth. Including the levels of a country, a church, working place and family…etc. For example, as a parent, do I perceive my personal responsibility in building up my children’s faith in God?
   四、我的禱告 / 實際應用

What do you see?

Jeremiah 1:11-19 (New International Version)

11The word of the Lord came to me: “What do you see, Jeremiah?”

“I see the branch of an almond tree,” I replied.

12The Lord said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”

13The word of the Lord came to me again: “What do you see?”

“I see a boiling pot, tilting away from the north,” I answered.

14The Lord said to me, “From the north disaster will be poured out on all who live in the land. 15I am about to summon all the peoples of the northern kingdoms,” declares the Lord.

“Their kings will come and set up their thrones

in the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem;

they will come against all her surrounding walls

and against all the towns of Judah.

16I will pronounce my judgments on my people

because of their wickedness in forsaking me,

in burning incense to other gods

and in worshiping what their hands have made.

17“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them. 18Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land. 19They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.

I. Message:

Content:

1. God let Jeremiah have a first vision – an almond tree (v11-12)
2. God let Jeremiah have a second vision – a boiling pot (v13-15)
3. God proclaimed that He will judge and punish those who betrayed Him (v16)
4. God told Jeremiah to stand up and courageous (v17)
5. God’s encouragement, firm statement and promise to Jeremiah (v18)

Theme:

What do you see?

Be strong and courageous!

II. Who is God? Who is Jesus Christ? Who is Holy Spirit?

1. God who speaks to people through words (v11-14)
2. God who keeps His Word (v12)
3. God who brings disorder and chaos (v14)
4. God who send enemy to those who betray (v15)
5. God who judges those who did wrong (v16)
6. God who calls those who are willing to follow Him (v17)
7. God who encourages and who keeps His promises (v18-19)

III.

1. Learn to listen to God’s voice

The word of the Lord came to me: “What do you see, Jeremiah?” (v11) The word of the Lord came to me again: “What do you see?” (v13) according to these passages, we become aware of: The intimate relationship between the prophet Jeremiah and God, almost as though it’s a relationship between son and father. Jeremiah was able to hear Him and speak to Him under any circumstances. We should follow Jeremiah’s example.

Reflection: As a Christian, do I really understand what God plan is for me? How can I be sure of it? Or am I just saying it without thinking? I can always refer to the Bible for the revelations but do I read the Bible daily and do I really comprehend God’s intentions?

2. The vision of the almond tree

The word of the Lord came to me: “What do you see, Jeremiah?” “I see the branch of an almond tree,” I replied. (v11) The Lord said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.” (v12)

These passages describe the first vision that Jeremiah had, which was a branch of an almond tree. The “branch of an almond tree” means “being alert, being awake” in Hebrew. After a long winter season, the almond tree is the first vegetal that grow (aware, awake) among other plants. The vision of the almond tree shown to Jeremiah by God means: Even though the people of the land’s spirits were “asleep”, but God’s Words are still there and not forgotten, just as He promised. It could also mean: God’s Words are soon to become visible just as the speed of almond tree’s growth in the spring.

Reflection: Is my spirit still at rest? If I hear God’s calling, will I be awake?

3. The vision of the boiling pot

The word of the Lord came to me again: “What do you see?” “I see a boiling pot, tilting away from the north,” I answered. (v13) The Lord said to me, “From the north disaster will be poured out on all who live in the land. (v14) I am about to summon all the peoples of the northern kingdoms,” declares the Lord. “Their kings will come and set up their thrones in the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem; they will come against all her surrounding walls and against all the towns of Judah. (v15)

This vision is to explain how God will be carrying out his Words upon the Israelites and His Words are to show the people the sins they had committed. So God will be judging and punishing those who sinned. These sins include: abandoning God, worshipping idols. God’s judgment will be like the boiling water, from the north disaster, will be poured out on all who live in the land. Also the prediction: the North of Babylon will invade.

Reflection: Have I had any “Through God's Word in Bible, became conscience of the sin committed and asked for forgiveness to God” experience?

4. A difficult mission

“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them. (v17) Today I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall to stand against the whole land (v18a)

According to the Bible, we clearly see that: The mission that Jeremiah accepted from God was absolutely not a pleasant and easy one. The kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land will be against Jeremiah. What Jeremiah received was indeed a difficult mission.

Reflection: What calling of missions from God have I ever received? Was it easy or hard?

5. God’s promise

“Against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests and the people of the land.” (v18b)

Although the mission is difficult, God was with him and gave him the strength and the force to defeat the enemy. He made Jeremiah as strong as the fortified city, the iron pillar and the bronze wall.

Reflection: I believe in God, but am I able to rely on God? And should I worry?

Translated by Janet H.

God’s Calling

耶利米書01：01-10

1:1 這部書是耶利米的語錄。耶利米的父親希勒家是便雅憫境內亞拿突城的一個祭司。1:2 猶大王亞們的兒子約西亞統治猶大國的第十三年，上主向耶利米說話；1:3 約西亞的兒子約雅敬統治猶大國期間，上主又向耶利米說話。那時以後上主常常向他說話，一直到約西亞的另一個兒子西底家作王統治猶大國的第十一年五月，那時候耶路撒冷的住民被擄到巴比倫去。1:4 上主對我說：1:5 「在我賜生命給你以前，我已經選召了你；你還沒有出生，我就指定你作萬國的先知。」1:6 我回答：「至高的上主啊，我太年輕；我沒有口才。」1:7 但是上主對我說：「你不要自以為年輕，儘管到我差派你去的人當中，向他們宣佈我命令你說的一切話。1:8 你不要怕他們；因為我與你同在，要保護你。我─上主這樣宣佈了！」1:9 於是上主伸手摸我的嘴唇，對我說：「你看，我把你該說的話放在你口中。1:10 我今天授權給你；你要向萬國萬民做根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻、重建，和種植的工作。」

Jeremiah 1:1-10

¹ The words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, one of the priests at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. ² The word of the LORD came to him in the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah, ³ and through the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, down to the fifth month of the eleventh year of Zedekiah son of Josiah king of Judah, when the people of Jerusalem went into exile. ⁴ The word of the LORD came to me, saying, ⁵ "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." ⁶ "Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child." ⁷ But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. ⁸ Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. ⁹ Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. ¹⁰ See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant."

一、中心內容：

內容： Content:
1>介紹先知耶利米的背景。An overview of Prophet Jeremiah（v1）
2>歷年來上帝經常向耶利米說話。What God has told Jeremiah over the years（v2-3a）
3>上帝正式呼召耶利米當先知。God officially appointed Jeremiah to become a prophet to the nations（v3b-5）
4>耶利米以年輕、口才不佳為理由推辭。Jeremiah rejected this offer because he claimed that he did not know how to speak as he is and only a child（v6）
5>上帝應許與他同在，賜給他話語，並交付使命。（v7-10）

主題：上帝的呼召。Theme: God’s Calling

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

1>向人類說話的上帝。The God that speaks to people（v1-6、v7-10）
2>創造人、賜人生命的上帝。The God that creates people and provides life（v5）
3>完全（徹底）認識人的上帝。The God that knows His people completely（v5）
4>揀選人，將人分別為聖的上帝。The God that appoints people and calls them holy（v5）
5>計劃周全（永世計劃）的上帝。The God that provides the ideal plan that lasts forever（v5）
6>分派人，完成祂旨意的上帝。The God that calls on people to complete His will（v5）
7>應許與祂僕人同在的上帝。The God that keeps promises with His servants（v8）
8>賜祂僕人話語的上帝。The God that provides discourse for His servants（v9）
9>賜祂僕人權柄的上帝。The God that provides power for His servants（v10）

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？

前言：當所羅門王去世之後，以色列民族立刻分裂為南、北兩國。南國稱為猶大，北國稱為以色列。耶利米出生在南國猶大屬地，即耶路撒冷北方約五公里處的亞拿突，蒙上帝呼召他當先知之後，便非常忠心的傳講上帝的話語。
當時南國猶大，在政治、道德、靈性等各方面都相當腐敗。他歷經四十年，不斷的說上帝所啟示的預言，力勸領袖與百姓離棄罪惡，但是卻沒有人願意聽從。

Preface: After the death of King Solomon, the Israelites immediately broke up into two nations: south and north. The South Nation is also known as Judah, whereas the North Nation is known as Israel. Jeremiah was born in the South Nation, the land of Judah – a distance of approximately five kilometers north of Jerusalem, Anathoth. By the grace of God, He appointed him as the prophet; and Jeremiah faithfully spreads the Word of God. At that time, the South Nation, Judah had terrible politics, ethics, spiritualities, etc. He experienced forty years of spreading God’s revelation led the people out of this nation to escape the corruptions and sins; unfortunately, no one was willing to listen.

1>上帝用人的原則 God’s Principles of Using His People
第一節特別交代耶利米的身世，就是：耶利米的父親希勒家，是便雅憫境內亞拿突城的一個祭司。便雅憫是雅各最小的兒子，也是十二支派當中，最小的一個支派。（士師記20-21章）這樣一個上帝大大使用的先知，竟然不是從雅各最大的大兒子，或以色列民族最大的支派當中挑選，反而從小兒子與小支派中產生。顯然，上帝揀選、使用人，有祂所持守的原則，跟一般世人的習性非常不一樣。因此，不分貧賤富貴，任何人都有可能被上帝呼召並使用。
反省：在上帝的國度裏，我是否曾經因為自己的身世、學歷、相貌、家財不如人，而小看自己？

In verse one, God especially gives an account on the identity of Jeremiah, that is – Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, one of the priests at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. Benjamin youngest son of Jacob, is also the smallest tribe among the twelve (Judges 20-21). The prophets appointed by God, are neither the eldest son of Jacob nor anyone from the largest tribe of Israelites. Evidently, God has his own principle of appointing and using people, very differently from the ways that people are accustomed to. Hence, despite the social statues of the rich and poor, anyone has the potential to be called and used by God.

Reflection: In God’s Kingdom, did I ever look down on myself because of my identity, education, appearances, poor family background?
2>至高上帝的呼召 The Calling of Almighty God
當上帝的呼召臨到時，就對耶利米說：在我賜生命給你以前，我已經選召了你；你還沒有出生，我就指定你作萬國的先知。（v5）顯然，上帝在每個世代、每個地方，不斷呼召人，成為祂的同工，以期完成祂的旨意。
如：呼召亞伯拉罕、呼召摩西、呼召大衛、呼召歷代先知、呼召保羅、呼召戴德生、呼召馬偕、呼召馬雅各----等人。今天同樣呼召我們成為祂的同工，以期完成祂的旨意。
反省：我是否已經預備好，要回應上帝的呼召？又：是否清楚上帝對我個人的呼召？
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (v5). Obviously, in every generations and places, God continuously calls on people to become His co-workers and accomplish His will.

For example: God called Abraham, Moses, David, ancient prophets, Paul, Hudson, Mackay, Maxwell, and so on. Similarly, He calls on each and every one of us today to become His co-workers to complete His will.

Reflection: Am I ready to respond to God’s calling? Do I even know what my personal calling from God is?
3>上帝認識蒙召者 God Knows Who Has Been Called
當上帝的呼召臨到時，就對耶利米說：在我賜生命給你以前，我已經選召了你；你還沒有出生，我就指定你作萬國的先知。（v5）顯示：上帝對祂所呼召的人，有著非常透徹的認識。上帝在當時，非常透徹認識耶利米，今天同樣非常透徹的認識你、我。甚至是當我們還在母腹的時候，祂就已經認識我們、關心我們、呼召我們、計劃好我們的一生。
反省：我是否知道，上帝徹底認識我？我是否明白，個人生命的意義？我是否看清，上帝在我身上，早已畫好的藍圖？

As the time of God’s calling approaches, He said to Jeremiah: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (v5). It demonstrates that God knows very well about the people He has called. At that time, God completely knows Jeremiah; likewise today, He knows utterly well about you and me. Moreover, since our times in the mother’s womb, He already knew about us, cared for us, called on us, and planned our lives.

Reflection: Do I know the fact that God knows me entirely? Do I understand the purpose of my life? Am I able to see clearly the blueprint that God has already drawn for me?

4>上帝永世的計劃 God’s Eternal Plan
當上帝的呼召臨到時，對耶利米說：在我賜生命給你以前，我已經選召了你；你還沒有出生，我就指定你作萬國的先知。（v5）顯示：上帝的呼召，並非朝夕之事。亦即：並非臨時起意，而是早有預備，也就是永世的計劃。
根據聖經的記載，包括：先知以賽亞（以賽亞書49:1.5）、使徒保羅（加拉太書1:15）都是在母親腹中，就已經被上帝呼召，成為傳達上帝信息的人。
反省：我是否清楚上帝在我身上的計劃？如果上帝給我特別的使命，我是否盡力去完成？

When God called on Jeremiah, He said to him: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (v5). Evidently, God’s calling is not just any ordinary issue in which He acts spontaneously; but upon closer look, He had already planned our eternal life long beforehand.

According to the Bible, including prophet Isiah (Isiah 49:1.5), Apostle Paul (Galatians 1:15) were both called when they were still in their mother’s womb to later spread the Word of God.
5>面對呼召的反應 Respond Towards the Calling
面對從上帝而來的呼召，耶利米的回應是：至高的上帝啊，我太年輕；我沒有口才。（v6）
當耶利米得到上帝的呼召之後，直覺反應就是：以「太年輕」以及「沒有口才」來推辭。事實上，他並不像約拿那樣刻意叛逃，而是因驚訝而辭謝。因為他認為自己的條件，尚不足以承擔「上帝代言人」這麼重要的任務。
事實上，今天有許多人，也跟耶利米一樣。就是當面對來自上帝的呼召時，總是先以人的眼光來評估，一旦認為自己無能為力時，就以百般理由來推辭。
反省：面對上帝的呼召，我都是欣然接受，或自認能力不足，導致驚訝、害怕而推辭？

Facing God’s personal calling, Jeremiah’s respond was, "Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child” (v6). After receiving the calling from God, Jeremiah’s immediate respond illustrates that he used the excuses of being “a child” and “not knowing how to speak”. In fact, he was unlike Jonah who immediately escaped from the calling, Jeremiah was so astonished that he declined God’s calling with appreciation. Jeremiah truly believed that he was yet adequate to take on the important task of spreading the Word of God.

Truly, the respond of many people in today’s world are similar to that of Jeremiah’s. That is – whenever God calls on us, we often think that how people look at us is the most essential. Consequently, we would think that we are yet ready and decline His calling entirely.

Reflection: Facing God’s calling, do I willingly accept it or often decline His calling thinking of myself as insufficient in which I become astonished and afraid?
6>上帝話語代言人 Advertiser for the Word of God
但是上帝對我說：「你不要自以為年輕，儘管到我差派你去的人當中，向他們宣佈我命令你說的一切話。（v7）先知的職責非常清楚，就是：上帝啟示什麼，就傳達什麼。上帝的話語絕對不能加油添醋，或加入自己的意思，導致偏離上帝心意。應該忠心轉述上帝的話，也就是成為上帝話語的代言人。
今天事奉上帝的人也應該如此，就是要照著上帝的心意，而不是照著人的意思。也就是說聖經怎麼說，我們就怎麼做。不要參雜個人意見，或社會習俗。
反省：我是否天天讀聖經，尋求明白上帝的心意？不僅遵行，而且廣泛宣揚？

But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you (v7). The duty of a prophet is very clear, that is – whatever God tells you do to, do it without questioning and doubts. The Word of God must be original. We must not add our own opinions and cause ourselves to be misled. We must humbly spread God’s message word by word to becoming a faithful advertiser for God’s Word.

Likewise in today’s world, we must do things according to God’s will and not according to that of other people. In other words, we must live accordingly whatever the Bible says. Do not add your personal opinions or cultural traditions.

Reflection: Do I read the Bible daily and thirst for God’s calling? Not only obey them but also spread His Word?

7>艱難中上帝保護 God Protects During Times of Hardship
上帝又對耶利米說：你不要怕他們；因為我與你同在，要保護你。我─上主這樣宣佈了！於是上主伸手摸我的嘴唇，對我說：你看，我把你該說的話放在你口中。（v8-9）
當一個人蒙召之後，在往後事奉的歲月當中，上帝並沒有保證不會遇到任何艱難險阻，但是卻應許：在艱難險阻當中，會與他同在，而且保護他。
反省：當我回應來自上帝的呼召之後，是否全然依靠上帝，不畏艱難險阻，勇敢向前邁進？

“Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. ⁹ Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth (v8-9). Once a person is called upon by God, He never promised that there will be no more sufferings during this time of offering. Instead, God promised that He will be with you and protect you during times of suffering.

Reflection: When I respond to God’s calling, do I fully put my trust in Him? And despite the difficulties, I continue to go forward in my life?

8>既呼召便負全責 Once He Called, He Will Take Responsibility of Everything
你不要怕他們；因為我與你同在，要保護你。我─上主這樣宣佈了！於是上主伸手摸我的嘴唇，對我說：你看，我把你該說的話放在你口中。（v8-9）
耶利米推辭的理由之一是沒有口才，上帝立刻伸手摸他的嘴唇，對我說：你看，我把你該說的話放在你口中。顯然，上帝既然呼召了我們，就必定負責到底。
反省：如果今天上帝呼召我，將一個特別任務交付給我，我還會擔心自己能力不足嗎？

Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. ⁹ Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth (v8-9).

One of the reasons that Jeremiah declined God’s calling was that he did not know how to speak. God immediately reached out his hand and touched Jeremiah’s mouth and said to him, “Now, I have put my words in your mouth. Surely, once God calls on us, He will take responsibility of everything.

Reflection: If God calls on me today and gives me a special mission, will I still be worried that I do not have the strength?

9>無可推託的使命 The Indeclinable Mission
上主對我說：你不要自以為年輕，儘管到我差派你去的人當中，向他們宣佈我命令你說的一切話。你不要怕他們；因為我與你同在，要保護你。我─上主這樣宣佈了！」於是上主伸手摸我的嘴唇，對我說：「你看，我把你該說的話放在你口中。我今天授權給你；你要向萬國萬民做根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻、重建，和種植的工作。」（v7-10）
當上帝的呼召臨到時，蒙召的人雖然百般推辭，但是上帝卻堅定祂自己的呼召，同時賜他當說的話，以及應許必定保護他，使得蒙召者完全沒有推託的理由。除了耶利米之外，還有先知以利亞（列王記上19:4）也曾經推辭，先知約拿（約拿書4:3）甚至曾經逃跑。
顯然，上帝的呼召一旦臨到，是沒有辦法推託的。
反省：當面對上帝的呼召時，我像耶利米推辭嗎？或甚至像約拿逃跑？或欣然接受？

⁷ But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. ⁸ Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. ⁹ Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth. ¹⁰ See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant" (v7-10).

Although many people tend to decline God’s calling, God still firmly sticks to His own calling and grant those ones the words they should say. Furthermore, God protects these people in order for them not to have anymore reasons to decline the calling. Besides Jeremiah, there is also Prophet Elijah (1 Kings 19:4) who also once declined, and Prophet Jonah (Jonah 4:3) had even escaped far away. Truly, once God’s calling reaches the people, there is no way that people can decline it.

Reflection: When facing God’s calling, do I react like Jeremiah and decline the calling? Or am I like Jonah who ran far away? Or perhaps I accept it wholeheartedly?

10>生命塑造的工作 The Work of Molding Life
上帝最後對耶利米說：我今天授權給你；你要向萬國萬民做根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻、重建，和種植的工作。（v10）此處所謂：根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻；重建、種植，並非指有形的建物或樹木、花草，而是指人的生命，也就是指：在道德、靈命方面的重造工程。
拆毀----根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻。
重建----重建、種植。
反省：我個人的生命，是否經過根除、拆毀、破壞、推翻，以及重建、種植的過程？

¹⁰ See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant” (v10). Words that we commonly know – to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant, are not necessarily only describing objects with shapes or trees and plants. It is talking about a person’s life, that is – the reconstruction of ethics and spirituality.

Tear down – to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow.

Build – to build and to plant.

Reflection: Have I ever experience the process of uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant?

四、我的禱告 / 實際應用

Translated by Hilary Chen

Do you truly love me more than these?

John 21:15-25 (New International Version)

Jesus Reinstates Peter

15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "You know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" 
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." 
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep. 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" 
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. 18 I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." 19Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!" 20Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?") 21When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" 22Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." 23Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?" 24This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true. 25Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.

I. Message:

Content:

1. Jesus verified three times Peter’s love for the Lord, and commissioned him to feed and to nurture the lambs (v. 15-17)
2. Jesus predicted how Peter would die for the glory of God in his old age. (v.18)
3. Jesus called Peter to follow him. (v. 19)
4. Peter asked Jesus what is to become of John. (v20-21)
5. Jesus reminded Peter to focus on following him instead of being concern about the future of others (v22)
6. Apostle John wrote these down in order to testify to the resurrected Lord. (v24)
7. The innumerable acts of Jesus. (v25)

Theme:

1. Do you truly love me more than these?"
2. Feed my sheep.

II. Who is God? Who is Jesus Christ? Who is Holy Spirit?

1. Jesus partakes breakfast with his disciples (v15)
2. Jesus verifies his disciples love for Him (v15-17)
3. Jesus entrusts the job of feeding his sheep to his disciples (v15-17)
4. Jesus predicts Peter’s fate (v18)
5. Again, Jesus calls his disciples to follow him (v19)

III. What is God teaching me (command, promise, model, rebuke, warning)?

1) Love must precede responsibility

Jesus asked Peter three times: do you love me? “Do you love me more than all these?” This is a necessary confirmation before Jesus can entrust the responsibility of ministry to Peter. Evidently, believing in God is not enough to minister to the Lord’s sheep. Only those who love the Lord can be entrusted with such responsibility. Especially, those who love the Lord more that wealth, fame, status, are fitted to minister.

Reflection: If Jesus should ask me the same question that he had asked Peter, what would my response be?

2) Schematic of discipleship

Confronted with Jesus’ question the first time, Peter said: “Yes Lord, you know I love you.” Jesus said to him: “Feed my lambs.” (v.15) Confronted the second time, Peter answered: “yes Lord, you know I love you.“ Jesus said again: “feed my lambs.” The third time Jesus said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" 
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. (v.17)

Obviously, the primary function of a church is to nurture and to minister to the Lord’s sheep. To minister is to be concerned with transforming and building up life. Ministering can be divided into feeding the lambs and tending the sheep. This division and the two stages show us that ministering is progressive. The contemporary equivalent of ‘feeding’ and ‘tending’ are ‘nurturing’ and ‘training’. A schema for discipleship is depicted in the conversation between Jesus and Peter.

Reflection: In my life and growing up process, how have I received nurturing and been ministered to?

3) To be martyred for Christ

After Peter proclaimed his love for the Lord, he received on the one hand, the calling to nurture and to minister to the Lord’s sheep. On the other hand, he would go on to sacrifice himself and to suffer for the Lord. Because Jesus said to Peter, “I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go."(v.18) In fact, Peter was subsequently martyred in Rome. He demanded to be crucified upside down, because he did not consider himself to be worthy to die in the same way as Christ Jesus. Peter’s love for the Lord gave him the mission but also led him to suffering.

Reflection: Jesus died for me, while Peter was crucified upside down, what have I sacrificed for my Lord Jesus?

4) John testifies to Christ

When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." (v21-22)

According to the scripture, Jesus supposed John would live a long life. To these two disciples, respectively, Jesus gave Peter the mission to minister to his sheep and to martyred for him, and called John to testify to him and all that he has done. John was to live a long life and to die peacefully in old age.

Later in Revelation, we learned that the whole church was persecuted, and old apostle John was imprisoned on the island of Patmos. The Lord who loved him, showed His glory once again! Through John and his testimonies and writings, the persecuted churches were comforted. The Lord revealed to John the imminent glory and the victory in the last hour, and the church in turn also received this revelation through John. John was called to be a witness for Christ.

Reflection: Am I clear about what God has called me to do? Have I persevered?

5) Devoted to follow the Lord

When Lord Jesus predicted Peter’s fate, Peter asked about John’s future. But Jesus did not want him to compare. He asked that Peter be concerned solely of his own attitude towards the Lord. It is human nature to compare. Comparing the significance of our gifts and talents, comparing the success or failure of ministry, comparing the good and bad of sermons, comparing popularity… etc. In fact, each person has his own path, calling, even his own ‘cup’ to drink, and his own price to pay. Different individual in diverse circumstances, each has his unique calling. Hence, comparisons are meaningless. Whenever we want to compare, all of us who serve the Lord must remember what Jesus said to Peter. “What is it to you? You follow me!” What is important is to be devoted in following Jesus.

Reflection: In the kingdom of God, do I constantly compare myself to others, or do I persevere in my calling and be devoted in following the Lord?

IV. Prayer/ Life Application



Translated by Daisy

The resurrected Lord’s third appearance to the disciples

John 21

Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish

¹Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias.^[a] It happened this way: ²Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. ³"I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

⁴Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.

⁵He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?"
"No," they answered.

⁶He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

⁷Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. ⁸The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.^{[b] 9}When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.

¹⁰Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught."

¹¹Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. ¹²Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. ¹³Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. ¹⁴This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

1. Central Content

Content

1. Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias (v.1)
2. Detailed records of Jesus’ appearance to each of the seven disciples (v. 2)
3. The other 6 disciples followed Peter and returned to their original career, but do not succeed (v. 3)
4. Jesus appeared before them, showing them where to cast their nets (v. 4-6)
5. John (Jesus’ beloved disciple) recognized that the man in front of them is Jesus (v. 7)
6. They caught a total of 153 fishes (v. 8, 11)
7. Jesus prepared the bread and fish and had breakfast with them (v. 9-10, 12-14)

Main theme

1. The resurrected Lord’s third appearance to the disciples
2. The resurrected Lord shared breakfast with the disciples

2. II Who is God, Jesus, Holy Spirit?

1. Jesus, who appeared to the disciples (v. 1)

2. Jesus, who took the initiative to come to the disciples, to care for them, to reveal to them (v. 4-5, 9-13)
3. Jesus, who performed miracles (v. 6)
4. Jesus, Who loved the disciples (v. 7)

3. Lessons for me

1. Proof of Jesus’ resurrection

The bible mentions that this is the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples. There are many other records of Jesus’ appearance upon his resurrection.

1. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene (John 20:17)
2. Jesus appeared to the women visiting to tomb (Mark 16:1-3)
3. Jesus appeared to Peter (Mark 16:7)
4. Jesus appeared to the two disciples traveling to Emmaus (Luke 24:16)
5. Jesus appeared to the disciples (Luke 24: 33)
6. Jesus appeared to Thomas (John 20:21-28)
7. Jesus appeared to the 7 disciples at the sea of Tiberias (John 21:1-2)
8. Jesus appeared to all 11 disciples on the mountain (Matthew 28:16)
9. Jesus appeared to over 500 brothers (1 Corinthians 16)
10. Jesus appeared to the disciples at Bethany (Luke 24:36-51)

Reflection: Do I truly believe in the resurrection of Jesus? Have I experienced this in my life?

2. Renewing the disciples’ hope

Disciples including Peter once gave up everything to follow Christ. They never would have thought the Jesus would end up crucified on the cross. Consequently, they were extremely disappointed and, still following Jesus, they returned to their original career.

Jesus knew them all very well and deeply cared for them. That is the main purpose of this appearance was for them. Jesus went to them, prepared and shared breakfast with them, taking this opportunity to strengthen their faith and renewing their hope.

Reflection: Have I ever experienced depression in faith? How can I stand up again, rekindle the flame and renew hope?

3. Living in everyday life

According to the Bible, when Jesus appeared to people, it didn’t’ happen in temples, but rather in everyday life or even at work. When the disciples returned to resume their jobs as fishermen, Jesus appeared before them, showing them where to cast the net and even sharing breakfast with them. This shows that Jesus deeply cared for his disciples.

Reflection: Is the resurrected Jesus that I experienced present only in church, or is he in my everyday life?

4. Lessons in spirituality

By appearing to the disciples, Jesus not only renewed their faith, but also taught them valuable lessons in spirituality:

1. Being aware that they are powerless: So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
2. Learning obedience: When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
3. Look upon Jesus’ supply: After a night of hard work with nothing to show for, Jesus prepared breakfast for the disciples
4. Experiencing Jesus’ care: Jesus approached, cared for and served the disciples

Reflection: Have I experienced the spiritual lessons mentioned above? Have I learned them?

4. Prayers and applications

Translated by Kelvin L.