An exposition of Jeremiah 17:4-18. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday evening, March 16, 2008.
Jeremiah 17 is one of those passages that seems to cut across the grain, that seems to move in a different direction than we would normally think. Popular religion sees Christianity as a self-help program. The popular mantra is “God helps those who help themselves.” This passage shows God as the one who helps those who have absolutely no hope.
The main thrust of the gospel is that Christ came on a mission to rescue hopeless rebels, not hapless victims.
- In verses 5-8 and 11-13 we see that a life of self reliance paves the path of terror and destruction, wile a life of dependence and trust [in God] leads to blessing and stability and peace.
- In verses 9-18. “The heart [of man] is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick;” therefore our only hope is the mercy and grace of our God. See Acts 16:14 for a great example of the nature and working of salvation.
Where do you stand tonight? What is your hope? What are you trusting in? Are you trusting in man and his insights, or are you trusting in God, and God alone, in the person and work of Jesus Christ?