Jeremiah 17: 5-–-8 by John Newton
The work contrasts two types of existence through natural imagery. One is the condition of the one who places trust in the transient and worthless; this individual is depicted as a barren, parched, and withering plant that ultimately dies without bearing fruit. His life is marked by emptiness and decay, as any temporary gain or worldly comfort quickly fades, leaving behind only despair and failure—an existence doomed by its foundation in vanity. In stark opposition stands the figure whose hope is anchored exclusively on the divine. This person is compared to a robust tree whose roots penetrate deeply into fertile, life-sustaining ground. Regardless of adverse circumstances, such as drought or the withering of surrounding elements, this tree continues to nourish and flourish. The imagery suggests that when life is built upon a constant, unfailing source, it remains resilient and productive, even when external supports falter. The contrasting metaphors serve as a moral lesson: relying on impermanent, earthly things leads to inevitable ruin, while steadfast trust in an eternal source guarantees stability and growth. The work encapsulates the idea that true strength and sustenance are found not in the ephemeral, but in an unwavering connection to the divine, which provides continual nourishment and protection against the vicissitudes of life.
By John Newton · First published 1779 · Genre: Christian Devotional Literature, Religious Poetry, Biblical Exegesis · 252 words
First lines
I: As parched in the barren sands, / Beneath a burning sky, / The worthless bramble with'ring stands, / And only grows to die; / II: Such is the sinner's awful case, / Who makes the world his trust, / And dares his confidence to place / In vanity and dust.
III: A secret curse destroys his root, / And dries his moisture up; / He lives awhile, but bears no fruit, / Then dies without a hope.
IV: But happy he whose hopes depend / Upon the Lord alone; / The soul that trusts in such a Friend / Can ne'er be overthrown.
V: Though gourds should wither, cisterns break.
What this Textopian page supports
Jeremiah 17: 5-–-8 is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Newton, dated 1779 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Newton
- Date: 1779 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Christian Devotional Literature, Religious Poetry, Biblical Exegesis, Inspirational Literature, Pastoral Poetry
- Length: 252 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Jeremiah 17: 5-–-8 by John Newton
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Christian Devotional Literature — The work centers on biblical themes and a steadfast reliance on the Lord, reflecting a spirit of devotion and spiritual guidance.
- Religious Poetry — Structured in poetic verses with rhythmic language and metaphoric imagery derived from scripture, it exemplifies religious poetry.
- Biblical Exegesis — The text reflects on a specific biblical passage, inviting theological interpretation and reflection on scriptural meaning.
- Inspirational Literature — The emphasis on hope and enduring faith despite hardship classifies it as literature meant to inspire and encourage.
Tags
biblical · exegesis · prophecy · theology · judgment · spiritual trust · divine providence · scripture commentary · sermon · biblical studies · interpretation · Old Testament