Thomas Aquinas Commentary Jeremiah 17:15-18

"Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of Jehovah? let it come now. As for me, I have not hastened from being a shepherd after thee; neither have I desired the woeful day; thou knowest: that which came out of my lips was before thy face. Be not a terror unto me: thou art my refuge in the day of evil. Let them be put to shame that persecute me, but let not me be put to shame; let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed; bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy them with double destruction." — Jeremiah 17:15-18 (ASV)

This is the third reason that gave rise to their belief in their own immunity: they did not believe God’s threats. Regarding this, there are three points.

1. First, he speaks of the insolence of those who did not believe: where is the word? It is as if he were saying, “They will not come.” You who say, let him make haste, and let his work come quickly, that we may see, and let the counsel of the Holy One of Israel come, and we will know it (Isaiah 5:19). Woe to them who desire the day of the Lord. For what good is it to you? (Amos 5:18).

2. Second, the prophet’s defense is given regarding his constancy of mind: and I am not troubled, because of their contradiction, following, fulfilling what you commanded me; the day, the present life, because I am prepared even to die; or alternatively, present prosperity and glory. But I account it very little that I should be judged by you, or by man’s day (2 Corinthians 4:3). And regarding the truth of his preaching: you know . . . what was right in your sight, although not in theirs. My witness is in heaven (Job 16:20).

3. Third, his own petition is given.

   First, he seeks safety: be not a terror to me. It is as if he were saying, “I fear only your indignation.” Let him take his rod from me, and let not his fear terrify me (Job 9:34). Do not fear those who kill the body, but rather fear him who is able to destroy the soul and the body in Gehenna (Matthew 10:28).

   Second, he asks that those who did not believe may suffer torment in their hearts and be put to shame because of their guilt: Let those who persecute me be put to shame. Let them be confounded, and put to shame, who seek my soul to take it away (Psalms 39:15). He also petitions concerning the fear of punishment: let them fear. Terror to those who work evil (Proverbs 10:29). For though wickedness is fearful, it is given for the condemnation of all . And concerning affliction in the body: bring upon them the day of affliction, in this life; destroy, by death, with a double destruction, with the sword and famine, or in soul and body.