The Pulpit Commentary on Jeremiah 20:7-18

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

The sorrow and joy of God's servant.

There are many such photographs of the inner heart-life of God's people. It is the touch of nature which brings them near to us. The words and work of Jeremiah become more living and influential when we witness his spiritual struggles.

I. THE SPIRITUAL NECESSITY OF HIS POSITION IS ALTERNATELY COMPLAINED OF AND ACQUIESCED IN. The saint cannot always continue amidst his highest experiences. There are ups and downs, not only of our actual outward circumstances, but of our inward spiritual states. Do not condemn Jeremiah until you are able to acquit yourself. The heavenly mind is not formed easily or at once. There is an inward cross m every true heart, upon which it must needs "die daily." But "the powers of the world to come" ever tend to increase their hold upon the believer. This alternation of mood and feeling is a necessary accompaniment of spiritual growth. Some day the heart will be fixed. "The reproach of Christ" will then be esteemed "greater riches than the treasures of Egypt." This is what we should strive after—inward oneness of heart and purpose with our Master.

II. HIS EXPERIENCE IS TRANSITIONAL.

1. From doubt to faith. (Verses 11, 12.)

2. From sorrow to joy. (Verse 13.)

3. One day the struggle will end in triumph.—M.

HOMILIES BY S. CONWAY

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