Jeremiah 31:3

KJV

The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying], Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} hath appeared {H7200} of old {H7350} unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved {H157} thee with an everlasting {H5769} love {H160}: therefore with lovingkindness {H2617} have I drawn {H4900} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

From a distance ADONAI appeared to me, [saying,] "I love you with an everlasting love; this is why in my grace I draw you to me.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with loving devotion.

American Standard Version

Jehovah appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 31:3 stands as a profound declaration of God's enduring commitment and active grace toward His people. It reveals the timeless nature of divine affection, emphasizing that God's love is not a fleeting emotion but an "everlasting love" that has existed from antiquity and will continue eternally. This foundational love is the wellspring from which His "lovingkindness" flows, manifesting as His gentle yet persistent drawing of individuals into a deeper, covenantal relationship with Himself, offering comfort, security, and the promise of restoration.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 31:3 is nestled within a pivotal section of the book, often termed the "Book of Consolation" (chapters 30-33). Following extensive prophecies of judgment, exile, and the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness, this segment marks a dramatic shift towards messages of hope, restoration, and renewal. Specifically, Jeremiah 31 focuses on the future return of both Israel and Judah from captivity, their spiritual renewal, and the establishment of a [new covenant](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31 - The New Covenant") that will supersede the old. Within this context, God's declaration of an "everlasting love" serves as the bedrock promise, assuring a people who had experienced severe discipline that divine faithfulness ultimately prevails, laying the theological groundwork for their future restoration and spiritual flourishing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Jeremiah were delivered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning from the late 7th to early 6th centuries BCE, leading up to and including the Babylonian exile. The people of Judah had witnessed the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and were themselves facing or enduring the trauma of siege, destruction, and forced deportation to Babylon. In this environment of despair, displacement, and questioning of God's covenant loyalty, Jeremiah's message of "everlasting love" and "lovingkindness" would have been profoundly counter-cultural and counter-intuitive. It challenged their perception of abandonment, affirming God's unchanging character despite their national failings and the apparent triumph of their enemies. The concept of "drawing" would resonate with the idea of a shepherd gathering scattered sheep or a parent reclaiming lost children, a deeply comforting image in a society rooted in agricultural and familial structures.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **God's Enduring Love**, portraying His affection as eternal and unconditional, a stark contrast to the conditional human love often experienced. This divine love is the basis for all His redemptive acts, as seen in passages like [Psalm 103:17](/psalm/103-17 "Psalm 103:17 - The Lord's Everlasting Mercy"). Secondly, the theme of **Divine Initiative** is prominent; God declares, "I have drawn thee," emphasizing that the relationship is not based on human seeking but on God's prior and active pursuit. This resonates with the New Testament truth that "we love because he first loved us" ([1_john/4-19](/1_john/4-19 "1 John 4:19 - We Love Because He First Loved Us")). Lastly, the verse underscores **God's Covenantal Faithfulness**, particularly through the term "lovingkindness" (Hebrew *hesed*). This term signifies steadfast, loyal, and merciful love that upholds a covenant relationship, assuring Israel that despite their breaches, God remains committed to His promises of restoration and renewal, which are further elaborated upon in the [Book of Consolation](/jeremiah/30 "Jeremiah 30 - The Book of Consolation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **loved (Hebrew, _ʼâhab'_):** This primitive root signifies deep affection, whether sexual or otherwise. In the context of God's relationship with His people, it denotes a profound, personal, and intentional attachment. It's not merely a sentiment but a volitional commitment that drives God's actions toward Israel, reflecting His very nature as a loving being.
* **everlasting (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** This term conveys the sense of "time out of mind," encompassing both the distant past and the unending future. When applied to God's love, it emphasizes its eternal, unchanging, and boundless nature. It implies that God's affection for Israel is not subject to the vicissitudes of time, human performance, or historical circumstances; it is an ancient and perpetual love.
* **lovingkindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** This rich Hebrew word is foundational to understanding God's character and covenant relationship. It denotes loyal, steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness, particularly within the framework of a covenant. *Hesed* is not just a feeling but an active, benevolent commitment that endures despite challenges, demonstrating God's unwavering devotion to His promises and His people.
* **drawn (Hebrew, _mâshak'_):** This primitive root carries a wide range of meanings, including to draw, pull, prolong, or extend. In this context, it vividly portrays God's active, intentional, and often gentle initiative in bringing His people closer to Himself. It suggests a magnetic or compelling force, a divine persuasion that overcomes resistance and leads to a restored relationship, much like a shepherd drawing a lost sheep back to the flock.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, [saying],":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and antiquity of the message. "The LORD" (Yahweh, H3068) signifies the covenant-keeping God. "Appeared of old" (H7200, H7350) suggests a revelation that is not new but rooted in God's ancient, unchanging character and His historical dealings with Israel, perhaps referencing His initial covenant with Abraham or His deliverance from Egypt. This sets the stage for a timeless declaration of love.
* **"Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love:":** This is the core declaration. God affirms His profound and enduring affection for "thee" (Israel/Judah). The phrase "everlasting love" (H5769, H160) underscores the eternal, unwavering, and unconditional nature of this divine affection. It is a love that transcends time, human failure, and even the consequences of sin, providing the ultimate foundation for hope and security.
* **"therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.":** This clause reveals the practical manifestation and consequence of God's everlasting love. Because of this deep, eternal love, God actively "draws" (H4900) His people. "Lovingkindness" (H2617, *hesed*) describes the steadfast, loyal, and merciful quality of this drawing. It implies a compassionate, persistent, and covenant-keeping action that seeks to restore and maintain relationship, overcoming obstacles to bring His beloved near.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 31:3 is rich in literary artistry, effectively conveying its profound theological message. The most prominent device is **Personification**, as God is depicted speaking directly and intimately to His people, expressing emotions like love and demonstrating actions like "drawing." This direct address ("I have loved thee," "I have drawn thee") creates a sense of personal relationship and divine accessibility. The phrase "everlasting love" employs **Hyperbole** and **Emphasis**, underscoring the boundless and eternal nature of God's affection, stretching beyond human comprehension of time. The act of "drawing" can be seen as a **Metaphor** for divine attraction, persuasion, and leading, evoking images of a shepherd gathering sheep or a parent guiding a child, suggesting a gentle yet irresistible pull towards relationship. The entire verse functions as a **Divine Oracle**, a direct pronouncement from God, lending it ultimate authority and truth. Furthermore, the repetition of the theme of love and drawing throughout the "Book of Consolation" creates a sense of **Thematic Resonance**, reinforcing the central message of hope and restoration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 31:3 serves as a cornerstone for understanding God's character and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people. The declaration of "everlasting love" reveals God's intrinsic nature as love itself, a love that is not contingent upon human merit or performance but flows from His eternal being. This divine attribute forms the bedrock of His covenant faithfulness (*hesed*), assuring Israel—and by extension, all believers—that His promises of redemption and restoration are immutable. It speaks to the doctrine of divine election and perseverance, where God's initiative in drawing His people is rooted in His prior, eternal affection. This verse counters any notion of God as a fickle or abandoning deity, instead presenting Him as the steadfast Lover who relentlessly pursues His beloved, even in their rebellion, ultimately for their good and His glory. This profound truth provides ultimate security and hope, knowing that our relationship with God is founded on His unchanging character, not our fleeting worthiness.

* [Psalm 103:17](/psalm/103-17 "Psalm 103:17 - The Lord's Mercy from Everlasting to Everlasting")
* [Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38 "Romans 8:38-39 - Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love")
* [Ephesians 2:4-5](/ephesians/2-4 "Ephesians 2:4-5 - God's Great Love and Mercy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 31:3 offers profound comfort and a secure foundation for faith in every season of life. Understanding that God's love for us is "everlasting" means it is not subject to our fluctuating emotions, performance, or circumstances. This truth liberates us from the burden of earning God's affection and instead invites us into a relationship of grace, where our security is rooted in His unchanging character. When we feel distant, unworthy, or overwhelmed by our failures, this verse reminds us that His "lovingkindness" is perpetually at work, actively drawing us back to Himself. It encourages a posture of trust, even when His ways are mysterious, and inspires a grateful response to His divine initiative. This verse calls us to rest in the assurance of His relentless pursuit, empowering us to live in the freedom and confidence that comes from being eternally loved and continually drawn by the God who is faithful beyond measure.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God's "everlasting love" challenge or affirm your current understanding of your relationship with Him?**
* **In what specific ways have you experienced God's "lovingkindness" actively "drawing" you closer to Him, perhaps even when you were unaware?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more fully embrace and live in the security of God's unchanging love, especially during times of doubt or difficulty?**

### FAQ
**Who is "thee" that the LORD is speaking to in Jeremiah 31:3?**

Answer: In its immediate historical context, "thee" refers to the nation of Israel, specifically the Northern Kingdom (Ephraim) and Judah, who were in exile or facing imminent exile due to their disobedience. The "Book of Consolation" is largely addressed to them, promising their future restoration and spiritual renewal. However, as with many Old Testament prophecies, this declaration of God's "everlasting love" and "lovingkindness" extends beyond a singular historical moment. Theologically, it reveals an aspect of God's unchanging character that applies to all His covenant people, including New Testament believers. Therefore, while primarily for Israel, its truth resonates with anyone whom God has chosen and drawn into a relationship with Himself, affirming His consistent and eternal love for His church, the spiritual Israel.

**What is the significance of God's love being described as "everlasting"?**

Answer: The term "everlasting" (Hebrew *'olam*) signifies a love that is eternal, without beginning or end, and unchanging through time. This is profoundly significant because it means God's love is not conditional, temporary, or subject to human performance. Unlike human love, which can waver or cease, God's love is rooted in His immutable character. This provides ultimate security and hope for His people, assuring them that His commitment to them is perpetual. It forms the foundational promise for His acts of redemption and restoration, guaranteeing that His covenant faithfulness (His *hesed*) will endure through all circumstances, even through periods of judgment and exile, as seen in the broader narrative of [Jeremiah 30-33](/jeremiah/30 "Jeremiah 30-33 - The Book of Consolation").

**How does God "draw" people to Himself, as stated in this verse?**

Answer: God "draws" people to Himself through various means, all stemming from His "lovingkindness" and "everlasting love." This drawing is primarily an act of divine grace and initiative. In the Old Testament, it involved His covenant promises, His providential care, His prophetic word, and His acts of deliverance (e.g., the [Exodus](/exodus/1 "Exodus 1 - The Beginning of the Exodus")). In the New Testament, the ultimate act of drawing is through the person and work of Jesus Christ, as Jesus Himself stated, "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him" ([John 6:44](/john/6-44 "John 6:44 - The Father Draws People to Jesus")). This drawing also occurs through the convicting and regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, the preaching of the Gospel, the witness of believers, and even through life's circumstances (both blessings and trials) that lead individuals to seek Him. It's a gentle yet powerful pull that awakens the heart to His truth and love.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 31:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "everlasting love" of God, declared in the Old Testament, is perfectly embodied and fully revealed in the person and work of Christ. It is through Him that God's *hesed*, His steadfast and covenantal "lovingkindness," reaches its zenith. The ancient promise of God's drawing His people near is realized in Christ's atoning sacrifice, which breaks down the barrier of sin and reconciles humanity to God. Jesus is the ultimate expression of God's love, as famously declared in [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"), demonstrating that "God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love")). Furthermore, Jesus Himself stated, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself" ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Drawing All People")), showcasing that His crucifixion is the magnetic act of divine love that draws humanity into saving relationship. The "new covenant" promised in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant") is inaugurated through Christ's blood, establishing a new and living way for God's everlasting love and lovingkindness to be poured out upon all who believe, fulfilling the ancient promise of drawing His people into an intimate, unbreakable bond with Him ([Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8 "Hebrews 8 - The New Covenant Established")).

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

Psalms 103:17

But the mercy of the LORD [is] from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;

Isaiah 54:8

In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.

Isaiah 54:9

For this [is as] the waters of Noah unto me: for [as] I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee.

Hosea 11:4

I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.

Deuteronomy 33:3

Yea, he loved the people; all his saints [are] in thy hand: and they sat down at thy feet; [every one] shall receive of thy words.

Ephesians 2:4

¶ But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

Ephesians 2:5

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)