Jeremiah 48:7
For because thou hast trusted in thy works and in thy treasures, thou shalt also be taken: and Chemosh shall go forth into captivity with his priests and his princes together.
Jeremiah 48:7
This verse intensifies the Moabite oracle by pointing to the motive of judgment: because you have trusted in your works and in your treasures, you will be captured. It names Chemosh, Moab’s chief god, and declares that he, along with his priests and princes, will go into captivity. The verse indicts reliance on wealth, military strength, and religious 'security' rather than fidelity to the Lord. The indictment targets both the socio-political structure and its religiously sanctioned leadership. It is a critique of a culture that equates success with control, and that equates divine favor with material prosperity. The mention of Chemosh emphasizes idolatry’s central role in Moab’s downfall. The imagery anticipates a total collapse of governance and religious authority, revealing the fragility of any system built apart from the true God.
Theologically, the verse highlights the biblical principle that trust in wealth and false gods leads to exposure to judgment. It shows that God judges not only individuals but the entire cult of national life that supports idolatry and exploitation. This also speaks to the completeness of divine judgment: the leaders—the priests and princes—share in the captivity, reflecting accountability for those who wield influence and lead others away from God. It underscores the unity of worship and justice: if your trust is in possession or cultic power, you cannot escape consequences when God’s verdict arrives. It also foreshadows the broader biblical arc where idolatry leads to downfall and true security is found in the LORD.
For readers today, this verse warns against letting wealth, status, or false religious assurances shape decisions. If you build life on possession, career prestige, or popularity, you risk losing more than you expected when circumstances change. It invites a reorientation toward trusting in God’s character and promises rather than in “works” or treasure alone. Leaders, in particular, should heed accountability: how does your leadership rely on schemes, wealth, or patronage? Are you protecting the vulnerable or pursuing power? Practical steps include budgeting with generosity, resisting corruption, and prioritizing integrity over success metrics. On a personal level, examine where you place ultimate security: in job, status, or possessions—then redirect trust to God, who remains constant and faithful.
Cross-References: Hosea 3:4; Psalm 20:7; Isaiah 31:1; Jeremiah 2:5; Matthew 6:19-21