Jeremiah 18:10
If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.
Jeremiah 18:10 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them" can be found in the Bible in the book of Jeremiah. This verse speaks to the consequence of disobedience and turning away from God's commands. The passage reveals that when a people or nation chooses to do evil and does not listen to God's voice, then God will change His plans to benefit them. This shows the importance of following God's will and obeying His commands in order to receive His blessings and favor.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of living a righteous and obedient life before God. It highlights the concept of God's justice and the consequences of disobedience. By repenting of the good He intended for them, God emphasizes the gravity of turning away from Him and the impact it can have on His plans for us. Overall, this verse serves as a warning to individuals and nations to heed God's voice and to strive to live according to His will in order to receive His blessings and favor.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the phrase "repent of the good" is a significant theological concept often discussed in the context of God's judgment. This phrase suggests that God may change his course of action based on the behavior of individuals or nations. In this instance, God is expressing his intention to withhold the blessings he had previously promised if the people fail to obey his commands. The idea of God repenting or changing his mind is a complex theological issue that raises questions about the nature of God's sovereignty and the relationship between divine foreknowledge and human free will. The word "repent" in this verse carries the connotation of God altering his intended benevolent actions due to the disobedience and evil committed by his people. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of heeding God's voice to receive his blessings.
Jeremiah 18:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
if they do that which is evil in my sight, that they obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.
World English Bible
if they do that which is evil in my sight, that they not obey my voice, then I will repent of the good, with which I said I would benefit them.
Douay-Rheims
If it shall do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice: I will repent of the good that I have spoken to do unto it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if it do euill in my sight and heare not my voyce, I will repent of ye good that I thought to do for them.