Jeremiah 48:35 – “I will put an end to Moab,” declares the Lord, “to the one who offers sacrifices on the high places and burns incense to his gods.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse shows God’s judgment on Moab, specifically targeting their false worship and idolatry. The phrase “high places” refers to the locations where Moabites offered sacrifices to their gods. These places were often elevated hills or mountains, thought to bring worshippers closer to their gods. The practice of “burning incense” symbolizes worship, prayers, and offerings made to idols rather than to the one true God.
God declares He will “put an end” to these practices. This judgment is not just about punishing the Moabites but about addressing the core issue: their devotion to false gods. Their idolatry was not only sinful but also dishonored the Lord, who is the only true God worthy of worship.
The verse underscores the seriousness of worshiping anything other than God. Idolatry leads people away from truth and life, and God, in His justice, cannot let it continue unaddressed.
Historical Context
The Moabites were descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:37) and lived east of the Dead Sea. Though they shared a historical connection with Israel, they were often in conflict with God’s people. Moab was known for its worship of the false god Chemosh (1 Kings 11:7), and its people regularly offered sacrifices and burned incense at high places.
The “high places” mentioned here were common in ancient Middle Eastern religions. People believed worshipping their gods on elevated ground gave them favor in times of need, such as during battles or harvest seasons. These practices were not only acts of disobedience against God, but they also reinforced a culture of self-reliance, pride, and spiritual rebellion.
By the time of Jeremiah’s prophecy, Moab had persisted in idolatry for generations, despite witnessing God’s power in neighboring Israel. God’s judgment against Moab was a consequence of their refusal to turn from false worship and acknowledge Him as the one true God.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals important truths about God and human worship:
- God alone deserves worship: The Moabites directed their sacrifices and prayers to false gods. This verse reminds us that worshiping anything other than God leads to spiritual ruin.
- God judges idolatry: Idolatry is not just bowing to physical idols; it is placing anything—wealth, success, people, or comfort—above God. This verse shows that God confronts idolatry because it separates people from Him.
- God is patient but just: Moab had many opportunities to turn from their idolatry, yet they refused. God’s judgment, though severe, reflects His justice against unrepentant sin.
God’s opposition to idolatry is rooted in His love. He desires to be worshiped because He alone is the source of life, truth, and salvation. Idolatry, on the other hand, leads people down a path of emptiness and destruction.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse is clear and direct. God speaks in the first person—“I will put an end to Moab”—emphasizing His authority and the certainty of His judgment. The phrase “declares the Lord” reinforces that this is not an opinion or empty threat; it is the Word of God, which will come to pass.
The mention of “high places” and “burning incense” carries deep symbolism. These were not merely religious practices but cultural habits that defined Moabite identity. By targeting these, God reveals the root of Moab’s sin: their misplaced worship.
The contrast in tone is significant. While God grieves over Moab’s destruction (Jeremiah 48:31-32), He is firm in bringing justice against their rebellion. This balance of sorrow and judgment reflects God’s character—compassionate yet holy.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 11:7 – “On a hill east of Jerusalem, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the detestable god of Moab.” Moab’s idolatry extended back many generations.
- Exodus 20:3-5 – “You shall have no other gods before me… You shall not bow down to them or worship them.” God commands exclusive worship.
- Isaiah 42:8 – “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.” God will not share His glory with false gods.
- Deuteronomy 12:2-3 – “Destroy completely all the places on the high mountains where the nations… worship their gods.” God called Israel to reject false worship.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder to evaluate our own lives for idolatry. While we may not worship physical idols or burn incense on hills, anything we place above God in our hearts becomes an idol. Idolatry can take many forms—money, careers, relationships, status, or even personal desires.
This verse challenges us to ask: What am I truly worshiping? God calls us to exclusive devotion to Him because He alone is worthy. Worshiping anything else, no matter how good it seems, will ultimately leave us empty and separated from God.
It also reminds us of God’s holiness. He does not overlook idolatry because it damages our relationship with Him. His desire is not to destroy but to free us from the things that pull us away from Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s judgment against Moab’s idolatry reveals His love and justice. God hates idolatry because it leads people away from Him—the only source of life and truth. His actions are not cruel; they are meant to confront sin and draw people back to Him.
Even as He declares judgment, God’s heart remains compassionate. Throughout Scripture, He calls people to turn from false gods and return to Him so they may experience His love, forgiveness, and blessing. His holiness and justice work together with His desire for restoration.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the one who calls us to worship God alone. Jesus confronted idolatry in His ministry, calling people to turn away from false worship and follow Him:
- John 4:23-24 – “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth.” Jesus invites us into genuine worship.
- Matthew 6:24 – “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” Jesus taught that our hearts must belong to God alone.
- 1 Corinthians 10:14 – “Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry.” Through Christ, we are empowered to worship God in truth and avoid false gods.
Jesus made a way for us to come directly to God, removing the barriers of sin and idolatry. Through His sacrifice, we are freed from false worship and invited to know and worship the one true God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there “high places” in your life—things you put above your relationship with God?
- How can you identify and remove any form of idolatry in your heart?
- What does it mean to worship God “in Spirit and in truth” (John 4:24)?
- How does Jesus’ teaching challenge you to prioritize God in every area of your life?
- What steps can you take this week to worship God more fully and intentionally?