Jeremiah 9:24 – “But let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the Lord.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse follows Jeremiah 9:23, where God warns against boasting in wisdom, strength, or riches. Here, God redirects His people to focus on what truly matters: knowing and understanding Him. The emphasis is on having a personal relationship with God, recognizing His character—kindness, justice, and righteousness—and delighting in those qualities as He does.
This kind of boasting isn’t self-centered but God-centered. It’s about giving glory to God for who He is and what He has done. To “know” God goes beyond intellectual understanding; it means experiencing His faithfulness and living in alignment with His character.
Historical Context
Jeremiah delivered this message during a time of spiritual decay in Judah. The people had turned to idols, false security, and worldly values, neglecting their covenant relationship with God. In the face of looming judgment, Jeremiah called them to return to the Lord and prioritize their relationship with Him.
God’s reminder about His character—kindness, justice, and righteousness—contrasts sharply with the corruption and injustice that defined Judah at the time. This verse calls the people back to a life that reflects God’s nature.
Theological Implications
- God Desires Relationship: Knowing God is more important than anything else we achieve or possess.
- God’s Character Defines True Values: Kindness, justice, and righteousness are what God delights in, and they should shape how we live.
- Boasting in God Glorifies Him: Recognizing and proclaiming God’s greatness honors Him and shifts our focus from earthly things to eternal truths.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse contrasts worldly boasting with godly boasting, creating a clear distinction between what matters to people and what matters to God. The repetition of “boast” emphasizes the importance of directing our pride and confidence toward God.
The qualities of kindness, justice, and righteousness are listed to highlight God’s character and what He values most. The verse ends with God’s declaration, giving weight and authority to the message.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Micah 6:8: Calls for acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God, reflecting His character.
- John 17:3: Jesus defines eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ, whom He sent.
- 1 Corinthians 1:31: Echoes this verse, urging believers to boast only in the Lord.
- Psalm 145:8-9: Celebrates God’s kindness and righteousness as foundational to His character.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians, this verse is a call to focus on what truly matters: knowing and understanding God. In a world that often prioritizes achievements, possessions, and status, this verse reminds us that our greatest treasure is our relationship with God.
It also challenges us to reflect God’s character in our lives by showing kindness, pursuing justice, and living righteously. Boasting in God means giving Him the glory for who He is and how He works in our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love by showing what He values: kindness, justice, and righteousness. These qualities are not just commands for His people but expressions of His own character. God invites us to know Him deeply and to experience His love, justice, and mercy firsthand.
By calling us to boast in knowing Him, God directs us to find our ultimate satisfaction and identity in Him, where we experience true fulfillment.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect embodiment of God’s kindness, justice, and righteousness. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus reveals God’s character and makes it possible for us to know Him personally.
In John 14:9, Jesus says, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father,” showing that knowing Jesus is the path to knowing God. His sacrifice on the cross demonstrates God’s kindness and justice, offering us the gift of righteousness through faith.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to shift your focus from worldly values to knowing God?
- What steps can you take to deepen your understanding and relationship with God?
- How can you reflect God’s kindness, justice, and righteousness in your daily life?
- How does Jesus help you know and understand God’s character more fully?
- What would it look like in your life to “boast” about knowing God?
Jeremiah 9:24 reminds us of the eternal importance of knowing and understanding God. It calls us to celebrate His character and live in a way that reflects His kindness, justice, and righteousness. In a world that often prizes temporary things, this verse points us to the lasting joy and purpose found in a relationship with the Lord through Jesus Christ.