Jeremiah 30:11

KJV

For I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.

KJV (with Strong's)

For I am with thee, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}, to save {H3467} thee: though I make {H6213} a full end {H3617} of all nations {H1471} whither I have scattered {H6327} thee, yet will I not make {H6213} a full end {H3617} of thee: but I will correct {H3256} thee in measure {H4941}, and will not leave thee altogether {H5352} unpunished {H5352}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"For I am with you to save you," says ADONAI, "I will finish off all the nations where I have scattered you. However, you I will not finish off, but will discipline only as you deserve; I will not completely destroy you."

Berean Standard Bible

For I am with you to save you, declares the LORD. Though I will completely destroy all the nations to which I have scattered you, I will not completely destroy you. Yet I will discipline you justly, and will by no means leave you unpunished.”

American Standard Version

For I am with thee, saith Jehovah, to save thee: for I will make a full end of all the nations whither I have scattered thee, but I will not make a full end of thee; but I will correct thee in measure, and will in no wise leave thee unpunished.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 30:11, a cornerstone within the "Book of Comfort," powerfully declares God's unwavering faithfulness and distinct covenant relationship with His people, Israel. Amidst the impending judgment and scattering of nations, the Lord assures Israel of His enduring presence and commitment to their salvation. While other nations that oppressed Israel will face complete destruction, God's discipline for His chosen people will be measured and corrective, aimed at restoration rather than annihilation, thereby affirming both His perfect justice and His redemptive love.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 30:11 is situated within a pivotal section of the book, often designated as the "Book of Comfort" or "Book of Consolation" (chapters 30-33). This block of prophecy marks a dramatic shift in tone from the preceding chapters, which predominantly detail Judah's impending judgment and exile due to their persistent idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. While judgment is still acknowledged as a reality, these chapters pivot to expansive promises of future restoration, a definitive return from exile, and the establishment of a [new covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant") that transcends the limitations of the old. This particular verse serves as a foundational assurance within this hopeful narrative, directly addressing the scattered exiles and emphasizing God's unique and enduring relationship with them. It sets the theological stage for the detailed promises of national renewal and profound spiritual transformation that are to follow.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Jeremiah ministered during the tumultuous final decades of the Kingdom of Judah, a period marked by profound moral decline, political instability, and eventual subjugation by the mighty Babylonian Empire. The people of Judah had repeatedly violated their covenant with God, leading to the divine judgment of exile, which was not merely a political defeat but a profound national and spiritual catastrophe. This verse speaks directly to a people either already enduring the hardships of exile or facing its imminent, terrifying reality, wrestling with feelings of abandonment and severe punishment. Culturally, the concept of a nation's god protecting its people was prevalent, but Jeremiah's message powerfully highlights the unique, unbreakable covenant between Yahweh and Israel. Here, God's discipline, even when severe, is presented as ultimately redemptive and restorative, in stark contrast to the fate of other nations whose gods were perceived to have failed them entirely. The "nations" referenced are those like Babylon, who served as God's instruments of judgment but would themselves face God's righteous wrath for their pride, cruelty, and idolatry.

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several profound theological and narrative themes central to the book of Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores God's **Divine Presence and Unwavering Commitment** to His people, echoing ancient covenant promises of being "with" them, as seen in God's assurance to [Jacob in Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "Genesis 28:15 - God's Promise to Jacob") or to [Joshua in Joshua 1:9](/joshua/1-9 "Joshua 1:9 - God's Assurance to Joshua"). Secondly, it highlights the **Distinction in Divine Judgment** between Israel and the surrounding gentile nations. While God sovereignly uses nations to discipline Israel, He reserves a different, more severe and final judgment for those nations, signifying Israel's unique covenant status and enduring election. Thirdly, the verse emphasizes **Corrective Discipline versus Annihilation**. God's punishment of Israel is not an act of ultimate destruction but a measured, purposeful correction designed to bring about repentance and purification, a theme consistently found throughout Scripture, such as in [Hebrews 12:6](/hebrews/12-6 "Hebrews 12:6 - The Lord Disciplines Those He Loves"). Finally, it powerfully affirms God's **Justice and Righteousness**, demonstrating that while His discipline is measured and redemptive, it is also undeniably real, ensuring that sin does not go unaddressed, even among His chosen people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **full end (Hebrew, _kâlâh'_):** From H3617, meaning a completion, consumption, or destruction. The repeated use of this word in the verse ("make a full end of all nations... yet will I not make a full end of thee") creates a profound **antithesis**. It highlights the absolute and final destruction awaiting the hostile nations that oppressed Israel, in stark contrast to the preservation and ultimate restoration promised to Israel. God's purpose for the nations is complete eradication, but for Israel, it is not.
* **correct (Hebrew, _yâçar'_):** From H3256, a primitive root meaning to chastise (literally with blows or figuratively with words), to instruct, or to punish. This word clarifies the fundamental nature of God's dealings with Israel: His actions are not arbitrary vengeance or abandonment but purposeful discipline, akin to a wise parent's instruction. This discipline is designed to reform, teach, and guide His people, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and righteousness.
* **measure (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** From H4941, properly a verdict pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree, encompassing concepts of justice, law, or due order. When used in conjunction with "correct," it signifies that God's discipline is not excessive, arbitrary, or vindictive. Rather, it is administered with perfect discernment, according to what is just, necessary, and precisely calibrated for His people's ultimate good and their eventual restoration. It implies a righteous and proportionate application of consequences.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee:"** This opening clause establishes the divine speaker and His foundational promise. The declaration "I am with thee" is a powerful covenant pledge, assuring God's people of His abiding presence, protective care, and active involvement in their lives, echoing ancient promises. The phrase "saith the LORD" (using the divine name YHWH, _Yᵉhôvâh'_) underscores the absolute authority and certainty of this divine oracle. The explicit purpose of His presence is "to save thee," indicating comprehensive deliverance, rescue, and ultimate salvation from their plight, their enemies, and the consequences of their sin.
* **"though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee,"** This clause introduces a stark and crucial contrast. God acknowledges His sovereign role in allowing and even orchestrating Israel's scattering among the nations (using them as instruments of His judgment). However, He simultaneously declares His resolute intention to bring a "full end"—complete destruction or eradication—to these very nations that oppressed and scattered His people. This highlights God's ultimate justice against those who acted with malice and exceeded His initial purpose for their use.
* **"yet will I not make a full end of thee:"** This is the pivotal antithesis and the heart of the promise. Despite Israel's profound sin and the severe discipline they face, God unequivocally states that He will *not* bring a complete and final end to them. This promise underscores His unwavering covenant faithfulness, His enduring commitment to their preservation as a distinct people, and His guarantee of their future, preventing their utter annihilation.
* **"but I will correct thee in measure,"** This clause clarifies the precise nature of God's dealings with Israel. His actions are not arbitrary destruction but purposeful "correction" or chastisement. The crucial phrase "in measure" (Hebrew: _mishpâṭ'_) signifies that this discipline is administered with perfect justice, discernment, and due proportion. It is neither excessive nor vindictive but perfectly calibrated to achieve its redemptive purpose: to bring about repentance, purification, and ultimately, restoration.
* **"and will not leave thee altogether unpunished."** This final clause powerfully affirms God's holiness, righteousness, and commitment to justice. While His correction is measured and redemptive, it is still undeniably real. Sin carries consequences, and God's perfect justice demands accountability. He will not simply overlook or ignore their transgressions but will ensure that they experience the necessary consequences, thereby demonstrating that His mercy does not compromise His perfect and unyielding justice.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 30:11 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound and comforting message. The most prominent is **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, vividly displayed in the parallel structure that juxtaposes God's dealings with the nations against His dealings with Israel: "though I make a full end of all nations... yet will I not make a full end of thee." This stark opposition powerfully emphasizes Israel's unique covenant status and God's distinct, preserving purpose for them. The **Repetition** of the phrase "make a full end" further reinforces this contrast and underscores the certainty of both outcomes. The verse also functions as a **Divine Oracle** or **Direct Address**, beginning with the authoritative declaration, "For I am with thee, saith the LORD," which lends immense authority, personal intimacy, and unwavering certainty to the promise. The phrase "saith the LORD" is a classic prophetic marker, signaling a direct revelation from the sovereign God. Finally, there is an implicit **Metaphor** of God as a loving yet firm parent who disciplines His children for their ultimate good, rather than abandoning or destroying them, as powerfully conveyed through the concept of "correct thee in measure."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 30:11 stands as a profound testament to the enduring nature of God's covenant faithfulness and the redemptive purpose inherent in His judgment. It reveals a God who is simultaneously perfectly just and limitlessly merciful, capable of bringing severe discipline without ever abandoning His ultimate commitment to His people. This verse teaches a crucial theological truth: divine judgment is not always an act of annihilation but can be a measured, corrective process designed to purify, refine, and restore. It highlights the profound theological distinction between God's relationship with His chosen people, Israel, and His dealings with the gentile nations, affirming Israel's unique and irreplaceable place in His overarching redemptive plan despite their failures. Ultimately, it offers a profound and enduring hope that even in the midst of severe consequences for sin, God's presence, His steadfast promise of salvation, and His unwavering commitment to restoration remain absolute.

* [Genesis 28:15](/genesis/28-15 "Genesis 28:15 - God's Promise to Jacob")
* [Hebrews 12:6](/hebrews/12-6 "Hebrews 12:6 - The Lord Disciplines Those He Loves")
* [Romans 11:26](/romans/11-26 "Romans 11:26 - All Israel Will Be Saved")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 30:11 offers profound comfort and timeless practical guidance for believers today, illuminating the unchanging character of God and the nature of His relationship with His people. In times of personal struggle, adversity, or when facing the natural consequences of our own choices, the opening declaration, "For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee," serves as an unshakeable anchor for the soul. It powerfully reminds us that God's abiding presence is not contingent on our perfect performance but is a steadfast reality for all who are in covenant with Him through Christ. This verse also profoundly reframes our understanding of divine discipline; rather than viewing hardships as abandonment or arbitrary punishment, we are called to recognize them as God's measured, loving correction, meticulously designed to refine our character, deepen our faith, and gently guide us back to His righteous path. It calls us to trust implicitly in God's perfect justice, knowing that He deals righteously with all humanity, and to embrace His discipline as a tangible sign of His fatherly love, leading ultimately to our spiritual maturity and His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the assurance "For I am with thee" provide comfort and strength in your current circumstances or seasons of difficulty?**
* **In what specific ways have you personally experienced God's "correction in measure," and how did that experience lead to spiritual growth, purification, or restoration in your life?**
* **How does this verse shape or deepen your understanding of how God's perfect justice and boundless mercy work in harmonious conjunction?**
* **What profound lessons does Jeremiah 30:11 teach you about God's unwavering faithfulness, even in moments when His people falter or fail Him?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Book of Comfort" and why is Jeremiah 30:11 considered part of it?**

Answer: The "Book of Comfort" refers to chapters 30-33 of the book of Jeremiah. This section marks a significant and intentional shift in the prophet's message from predominantly judgment and lament to one of profound hope, restoration, and future blessing for both Israel and Judah. Jeremiah 30:11 is a foundational verse within this section because it directly addresses the exiled people, assuring them of God's continued presence, His unwavering commitment to their salvation, and His solemn promise that their discipline will be corrective, not annihilative. This is in stark contrast to the "full end" reserved for the nations that oppressed them. It thus lays the essential theological groundwork for the detailed promises of return, rebuilding, and the [New Covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant") that follow.

**How does God's judgment on Israel differ from His judgment on other nations, according to this verse?**

Answer: Jeremiah 30:11 clearly articulates a crucial and distinct difference in God's judgment. For the "nations whither I have scattered thee," God declares He will "make a full end"—implying complete destruction, cessation, and ultimate obliteration. These nations, such as Babylon, were instruments of God's judgment against Israel but would themselves face ultimate retribution for their own wickedness, pride, and idolatry. However, for Israel, God emphatically states, "yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished." This signifies that God's dealing with Israel is not for their annihilation but for their purification, refinement, and ultimate restoration. His discipline is measured, purposeful, and specifically aimed at bringing them back into covenant faithfulness, thereby demonstrating His unique, enduring, and redemptive covenant relationship with them.

**Does "will not leave thee altogether unpunished" contradict God's mercy or His promise of salvation?**

Answer: No, this phrase does not contradict God's mercy or His promise of salvation; rather, it powerfully affirms His perfect justice and unwavering holiness. God is not merely merciful at the expense of righteousness; His attributes are perfectly integrated. Sin, even among His chosen people, carries inherent consequences. The "punishment" or "correction" mentioned here is not punitive in the sense of ultimate condemnation, but rather it is corrective and disciplinary, designed to bring about genuine repentance and lead to a deeper, more sanctified relationship with Him. It demonstrates that God takes sin seriously and that His love is not sentimental but holy. This measured discipline is, in fact, an act of profound love, as seen in [Hebrews 12:6-8](/hebrews/12-6 "Hebrews 12:6-8 - Discipline as a Mark of Sonship"), where discipline is presented as a definitive mark of true sonship, ensuring that His people are refined, sanctified, and conformed to His character for their ultimate good and His glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 30:11 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The foundational promise, "For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee," resonates deeply with the incarnation of Christ, who is [Immanuel, "God with us"](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel"). Jesus is the very embodiment of God's saving presence, coming not to condemn the world but to deliver His people from their sins ([Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Will Save His People")). The striking distinction between the "full end" reserved for the nations and the measured correction for Israel powerfully foreshadows the unique work of Christ: He bore the "full end" of God's righteous wrath against sin on the cross, becoming the ultimate atoning sacrifice for humanity's transgressions, so that all who believe in Him might not perish but have eternal life ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). Through His perfect atoning work, Jesus satisfied the demand for divine justice, ensuring that believers are "not left unpunished" in the sense that their sin was indeed punished, but in Him, they are declared perfectly righteous and fully acquitted ([Romans 3:25-26](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25-26 - God's Righteousness Through Faith")). Furthermore, the "correction in measure" for Israel finds its spiritual parallel in the New Covenant, where God's loving discipline of believers is a sanctifying process that refines them, conforming them to the image of Christ, rather than leading to their destruction ([Hebrews 12:7-11](/hebrews/12-7 "Hebrews 12:7-11 - Discipline as a Mark of Sonship")). Jesus, as the mediator of the [New Covenant](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in His Blood"), ensures that God's promises of salvation, restoration, and enduring presence are not only preserved but perfectly fulfilled in Him for all who are united to Him by faith, whether Jew or Gentile, forming one new people in Christ ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 10:24

O LORD, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing.

Jeremiah 1:19

And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee.

Jeremiah 4:27

For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end.

Isaiah 8:10

Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God [is] with us.

Jeremiah 1:8

Be not afraid of their faces: for I [am] with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD.

2 Timothy 4:22

The Lord Jesus Christ [be] with thy spirit. Grace [be] with you. Amen.

2 Timothy 4:17

Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.