Jeremiah 6:13-16 - All are greedy for gain

6:13-15

“From the least to the greatest, all are greedy for gain”. There is a tendency to associate sin with the rich and powerful, and it is true that they have a special responsibility, for they can influence more people. But all mankind has sinned, including the least. However, the criticisms here are focused on the leaders, especially the religious leaders. “They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious”. Religious leaders who overlook the fact of sin are in serious dereliction of their duty. Judah was heading towards disaster because of her sinfulness. So it is with this nation. “Peace, peace when there is no peace”. It is nice to speak comforting words, but if there is no peace then it is a cruel thing to do, and a deceitful thing to do. There are many preachers who preach lies. So the liars will be brought low by the Lord. We must never be a sin affirming church.

6:16

God calls on everyone to “stand at the crossroads and look”. To consider our ways. It is the ancient ways that lead to peace. Here it meant going back to the Law. In today’s society we would do well to consider our approach to sexuality, and to gender. God’s ways maybe derided as old-fashioned or dated, but they are far wiser than the nonsense that our society is promoting. God’s ways are good ways. And when we follow His ways we will find rest for our souls. The world’s ways lead only to confusion and pain. “But you said “we will not walk in it”. Sadly this is what our society is saying as well.