Why is this message relevant to the hearers? Why should they listen?
Proposition:
Lamenting means that when you are afflicted, you can fully trust that the Lord is right.
Body:
Lamentation does not minimize the real devastation of affliction (v. 1 - 11)
[particular illustration, application...] the cry of the widow city and the real impact of sin...
Lamentation expresses a real desire to be answered (v. 12-22)
[particular illustration, application...] the prayer/petition of the lamenter to witnesses and to the Lord, who is the righteous one.
Lamentation exercises justified trust in the Lord (v. 22)
Why are we adverse to this? What makes trusting in the Lord possible and justified?
Christological application: The agony of the Garden, the cup of God’s wrath - “Let this cup pass from me...” The provision of another Comforter…the recognition of sin, of affliction and call to trust in the righteous Lord.
Conclusion:
Lamentations is evidenced today...[all application]