Good Figs, Obedient Hearts

The Lord who overthrew Og and gave Israel the land is the same Lord who set two baskets before Jeremiah. He is not mocked by outward nearness to holy things. Some remained in Jerusalem near the temple and were rotten; some were carried far away into exile and were counted good. Therefore we should learn that a man is not made sound by place, rank, or privilege, but by hearing and obeying God.

The tribes who received their portion east of the Jordan were still bound to go armed before their brothers. A man may not rest in his own inheritance while the household of God labors. If the Lord has given you bread, strength, or peace, you owe service to the weaker member. To keep gifts for yourself while others fight is already to spoil them.

Jeremiah also teaches that affliction can be mercy. The good figs are not praised because captivity was pleasant, but because God used it to turn their hearts. As Irenaeus says, “Hear My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people;” This is the whole matter: not to boast of being numbered among God’s people, but to hear and do what He says.

So let no one despise the hard providence that exposes sin and calls for amendment. Better the discipline that heals than the ease that ripens a man for judgment. The Lord still distinguishes between those who bear His name and those who obey His voice. Let us then accept correction, bear one another’s burdens, and press on until all our brethren also come to rest.