Lamentations - The Mega-Themes

LAMENTATIONS

THE MEGA-THEMES

 

1) The Destruction of Jerusalem

 

Lamentations is a funeral song for the mighty capital city of the Jewish people. The Temple had been completely destroyed, the king was gone, and the people were now in exile. The Lord God repeatedly warned them that they would be destroyed if they turned away from Him.

The warnings of God had been completely justified. His actions prove that He’ll do just as He says He will do. Punishment for sin is a certain thing. The only thing that can stop it is confession and total repentance. Yet how much better would it have been if the people had heeded the warnings before the judgment took place.

 

2) The Revealing of God’s Mercy

 

            Even while God’s judgment was playing out, His compassion was at work. Although the people had been unfaithful, God’s faithfulness was still evident. He used this tremendous affliction to bring about mass repentance, bringing the people back to God.

            God is always faithful to His people, even when the consequences of their disobedience had to be endured. It is then that the people must pray for forgiveness and turn to the Lord for deliverance.

 

3) The Consequences of Sin

 

            The reason God was extremely angry at His people was because of their prolonged rebellion against Him. Their misery was caused by their sin ... the destruction of their nation was the result of their continued sin. What their destruction reveals is their vanity of human glory and pride. Believing they no longer needed to serve their God was their undoing.

            One thing Christians should never trust and rely on more than God is their own leadership, resources, intelligence, or power. If you do you will experience consequences of a negative nature.

 

4) There is Always Hope with God

 

            The mercy of God in sparing some offers hope for better days. The thinking is that one day the people will be restored to a true and intimate relationship with Almighty God. Only God can deliver us from sin. Without Him there’s no comfort and no hope for the future. Because of Christ’s death and promise to return, we have immense hope for tomorrow.

 

            Up next is the book of Ezekiel, the Prophet. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible