Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for June 18, 2023

The Lord’s Response to Lucky Charm Religion

Jeremiah 7:1-15

1. Background

• after renewal under Josiah and a short-lived reformation (Jer. 6: prophecy of impending judgment)
• part of Jeremiah’s temple sermon (7:1-8:3)

2. The Problem of Misplaced Trust 1-4

• proclamation in the gate of the temple
• a command and a promise
• the temple as a lucky charm (Matt. 6:7)

3. The Need to Make Things Right 5-7

• a picture of religion that pleases the LORD
• addressing horizontal and vertical abuse
• repetition of promise

4. The Crisis of Self-Deception 8-11

• accusation of repeated violation of the LORD’S commands
• elevation of ritual over relationship
• the LORD’S assessment of the temple: den of robbers (Isa. 56:7, Matt. 21:12-13)

5. The Sobering Warning from Shiloh 12-15

• location of the tabernacle in Canaan (Psa. 78:56-64)
• reminder of repeated warnings
• from the tabernacle to the temple

6. So What?

• Because obedience to the LORD is the only source of real security, grasp the vital connection between privilege and responsibility.
• beyond mere moralism and the connection to Christ (Jer. 31:31-34)
• “We should fear a fake faith.” (S. Smith)
• “Human pride and earthly glory, sword and crown betray His trust; what with care and toil he buildeth, tower and temple, fall to dust. But God’s power, by the hour, is my temple and my tower.” (J. Neander, “All My Hope on God is Founded”)