“Lamentations 1: The Consequences of Sin,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide (2002), 166–67
“Lamentations 1,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide, 166–67
The Consequences of Sin
Elder Theodore M. Burton said, “The scriptures and instructions from our spiritual leaders teach us how to avoid the heartache which always results from sin” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1985, 81; or Ensign, Nov. 1985, 64).
Lamentations 1, like all of the chapters in Lamentations, gives examples of the heartache Elder Burton spoke of. Heartfelt sorrow and remorse are the parts of sinning we don’t often see or think about when we are tempted to do wrong.
As you read, think about how the words in chapter 1 might be like the words of those who wasted their days on earth and are now in the spirit world facing the eternal consequences of the poor choices they made on earth.
Studying the Scriptures
Do activity A as you study Lamentations 1.
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Why?
In Lamentations 1:1–11, Jeremiah spoke as himself. In verses 12–22, he spoke as if he were the whole country of Judah. Choose four phrases from Jeremiah’s words (vv. 1–11) that you think explain why he “lamented.”