Pentecost Season · Proper 7 · Year A
Jeremiah 20:7-13
Jeremiah's Complaint; A Burning Fire
June 21, 2026
Overview & Insights
"If I say, 'I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,' then within me there is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot." (Jeremiah 20:9)
Jeremiah laments the mockery and persecution his prophetic calling brings, feeling deceived and overpowered by God. Yet God's word burns within him so that he cannot keep silent, and he trusts that the Lord will deliver him from his persecutors.
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Commentary
Commentary on Jeremiah 20:7-13 Working Preacher
Lectionary commentary on the prophet's confession and the fire in his bones.
Jeremiah 20 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse notes on Jeremiah's complaint and renewed trust.
Jeremiah 20:7 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries collected for the prophet's sense of being deceived and compelled.
Jeremiah 20 Commentary Precept Austin
Precept Austin's commentary and resources on Jeremiah 20.
Background & Word Study
Jeremiah 20:7 Interlinear BibleHub
Hebrew text and word study for the language of enticement, fire, and terror on every side.
Jeremiah 20 in Hebrew Sefaria
Hebrew and English with Jewish commentary for this confession of Jeremiah.
Overview: Jeremiah BibleProject
Animated overview of Jeremiah's ministry and suffering as a prophet.
Enter the Bible: Jeremiah Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary's introduction to Jeremiah (background only).
The Church Fathers
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