Focal Passage: Jeremiah 36:19-31 

Introduction: In Jeremiah 36:19-31 we encounter a powerful message from the prophet Jeremiah during a time of great national distress in Judah. 

The nation repeatedly rejected Jeremiah’s messages for 23 years.  God commanded Jeremiah to write down his messages in order that God’s instruction would be preserved and accurate. 

What does the text say? Jeremiah 36:19-31 recounts a significant event during the reign of King Jehoiakim. In obedience to God’s command, Jeremiah dictates the Lord’s message onto a scroll. The scroll is read aloud in the temple, stirring concern among the people. Word reaches the royal court, and the king’s officials summon Baruch, Jeremiah’s scribe, to read the scroll before them. [Read more…]

Focal Passage: Jeremiah 35:5-19 

Introduction: We observe the Rechabites who in Jeremiah’s day were descendants or followers of Jonadab. Jeremiah 34 shows us Jerusalem shortly before it is destroyed in 586 B.C. Jeremiah’s people and us need the lesson on the difference between an obedient and disobedient heart. 

What does the text say? The text introduces us to the Rechabites. They were descendants/followers of Jonadab, son of Rechab from Jeremiah 35:6. Jonadab helped destroy the house of Ahab about 250 years prior in II Kings 10:15-28. He also restored the worship of the Lord God in the Northern Kingdom. Jeremiah’s interaction with the Rechabites tells us they had adopted a faithfulness to Yahweh with certain restrictions, choosing a lifestyle more akin to the period of wilderness wandering.  [Read more…]

Focal Passage: Jeremiah 31:23-34

Introduction: In times of distress and uncertainty, we long for hope and restoration. The prophet Jeremiah brings us a message of God’s faithfulness and the promise of a new covenant.

In Jeremiah 31:23-34 , we discover a powerful vision of redemption and transformation. This passage reveals the depth of God’s love and the hope we have through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

What does the text say? Jeremiah 31:23-34 contains a proclamation from the Lord, assuring His people of future restoration and the establishment of a new covenant. [Read more…]

Focal Passage: Jeremiah 29:4-14 

Introduction: Throughout history, there have been times when God’s people faced great challenges and wondered if God could be trusted. In the midst of uncertainty, we turn to the timeless wisdom of Jeremiah 29:4-14. This passage offers us a glimpse into God’s heart and His faithfulness even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Let us explore the message of this text and discover its relevance for our lives today.

What does the text say? Jeremiah 29:4-14 contains a letter from the prophet Jeremiah to the Israelite exiles in Babylon. It addresses their predicament of being far from their homeland and facing an uncertain future. [Read more…]

Focal Passage: Jeremiah 23:1-12 

Introduction: Picture a land where shepherds abandon their flocks, causing chaos and despair. Today, we delve into Jeremiah 23:1-12, a powerful passage that denounces false shepherds and offers hope through the promise of a righteous Shepherd. Let’s us explore the depths of this message and uncover its relevance for our lives today.

Jeremiah 23:1-12 presents a divine message of condemnation, promise, and judgment.

The text reveals the indictment of false shepherds who scatter and destroy God’s flock. These leaders, both political and religious, neglect their responsibilities, causing the people to wander aimlessly. However, God promises to gather His scattered sheep and raise up faithful shepherds to care for His people. [Read more…]