Jeremias 4
John Chrysostom · Comentário Patrístico (catena)
Jeremias 4:2
If the old law had belonged to the devil, it would not have led people away from idolatry. Rather, it would have drawn them on and cast them into it, for this is the devil's desire. But now we see the opposite effect produced by the old law. And indeed this very thing, the oath, was ordained of old for this cause: that they might not swear by the idols. "You shall swear," said he, "by the true God." There were then no small advantages that the law effected, but rather very great. That they came to the "strong meat" was the work of its care. — HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW 17:5
Jeremias 4:14
To pray with unwashed hands is a thing of no consequence, but to pray with an unclean conscience is the worst of all evils. Listen to what was said to the Jews, who were much concerned about such exterior purification, "Wash your heart from wickedness. How long shall hurtful thoughts abide in you?" Let us also wash our hearts, not with filth but with pure water, with almsgiving and not with covetousness. — HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 73