Jeremiah 17:14-18 - Homilies By A.f. Muir

Divine prophecy and human impatience.

I. THE CREDIT OF THE PROPHET IS BOUND UP WITH HIS MESSAGE . He is conscious that this is the case. It is the test laid down by the Law ( Deuteronomy 18:21 , Deuteronomy 18:22 ), and that it should be so is beneficial. This is the universal law for all who declare the will of God. It is tried by human experience, by spiritual results. The prophet is expected to "heal."

II. MEN TRY HIM BY CHALLENGING A SPEEDY FULFILLMENT . Just as in nature men, as Bacon says, would anticipate , so in grace. There is a lack of patience, or impatience is made a mask for unbelief. In either sign it is a lack of faith. So men manufacture tests for prayer, for reality of conscience.

III. HE FINDS REFUGE AND COMFORT .

1. In the answer of a good conscience toward God . It was not idleness, love of filthy lucre, or eagerness for pre-eminence that led him to the work, but a consciousness that he was speaking God's own word, no man's fancy or device.

2. In earnest prayer that God will make good his word . There are elements in this prayer from which we shrink. But should we? The fulfilling of evil prophecy may sometimes be a national benefit.

3. In the unshaken faith that what God willeth will be . He appears to be sore distressed. Perhaps personal perplexity enters into his grief. But there is no sign of lack of faith in its ultimate fulfillment. What a support is that to him who foretells or does the will of God! "In due season we shall reap if we faint not." "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my word shall not pass away."—M.