Jeremiah

Jeremiah was written around 626 - 586 BC by the prophet Jeremiah to the people of Judah and Jerusalem during the reign of Josiah, Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah, the last five kings of Judah. This was during a time of impending Babylonian conquest. Jeremiah delivered messages of judgment, repentance, and hope of restoration. He warns the people of Judah of the imminent destruction of Jerusalem and the temple due to their persistent idolatry and injustices. Despite facing persecution, Jeremiah faithfully conveys God's call for repentance and urges the people to turn back to God to avoid disaster. He delivers a prophecy of the seventy-year exile in Babylon but offers hope by prophesying a future covenant where God will write His laws on the hearts of His people to ensure their return and restoration.

The Call Of Jeremiah - Chapter 1

Jeremiah, a priest in the territory of Benjamin, received the word of God during the reigns of Josiah, Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah, until Jerusalem's exile. God appointed Jeremiah as a prophet before his birth and gave him the authority to impact nations and kingdoms. God showed Jeremiah visions of branch on an almond tree, symbolizing God's vigilance, and a boiling pot from the north, indicating impending disaster from northern kingdoms. God’s judgments would come upon His people for their idolatry and wickedness. God commanded Jeremiah to deliver His message. God promised him strength and protection against the leaders and people of Judah.

Israel Forsakes God - Chapter 2

The word of the LORD comes to Jeremiah, instructing him to proclaim His message to Jerusalem. God recalls Israel's early devotion and laments their idolatry and abandonment. Despite God's deliverance and provision, Israel defiles His land and turns to false gods. The LORD accuses Israel of forsaking Him, the living water, and relying on broken cisterns. Israel faces punishment and devastation due to their disobedience. God calls out their rebellion, but they continue practicing idolatry and relying on the false security of other nations. God reminds them of His faithfulness and declares they will face consequences for their unfaithfulness and misplaced trust.

Israel Forsakes God (cont.) - Chapter 3

The LORD compares Israel's unfaithfulness to a divorced wife who has taken many lovers. Despite this, Israel shamelessly seeks God's favor while continuing to sin. God withholds rain as a sign of judgment. Israel asks if God's anger will last forever, yet persists in doing evil, showing no genuine repentance or shame for their actions.

Unfaithful Israel

During King Josiah's reign, the LORD reveals Israel's unfaithfulness to Jeremiah and compares it to adultery. Judah also turns to idolatry without fear of the LORD. God divorces Israel but finds Judah's false loyalty worse. God calls for Israel’s return, offering mercy if they acknowledge their guilt and idolatry. He promises restoration, new leaders, and unity between Israel and Judah. Jerusalem will become God's throne, and nations will honor the LORD there. Israel's repentance is essential to recognizing their sin and seeking God's salvation.

Unfaithful Israel (cont.) - Chapter 4

The LORD calls Israel to return to Him, abandon idols, and be righteous. If Israel swears by the LORD's name sincerely, other nations will also seek His blessings. The LORD urges Judah and Jerusalem to prepare their hearts and remove anything that hinders devotion, or they will face His wrath due to their evil actions.

Disaster From The North

The LORD warns of disaster from the north, urging Judah and Jerusalem to flee to fortified cities. He describes the approaching destruction as a fierce, unstoppable force, comparing it to a lion and a whirlwind. The LORD laments the false sense of peace previously believed by the people and says that their wickedness has brought judgment upon them. Jerusalem is called to repent and cleanse its heart to be saved. Despite the destruction, the LORD will not destroy completely, but His fierce anger and judgment are imminent.

Not One Is Upright - Chapter 5

God instructs Jeremiah to search Jerusalem for one honest person to forgive the city, but none are found. Despite claiming to follow God, the people are deceitful and refuse to repent. Both the poor and leaders have rebelled, leading to God’s judgment. A destructive nation will invade as punishment for their idolatry, adultery, and wickedness. God again says that He will not completely destroy them.

Jerusalem Under Siege - Chapter 6

Jeremiah delivers a warning from God that disaster approaches Jerusalem from the north. Jerusalem will remain stubborn and sinful. Jeremiah laments their refusal to heed his warnings, their rejection of God's law, and their deceitful practices. God, angered by their unrepentant hearts, declares punishment. The invasion will bring anguish and terror, but the people remain stubborn, refusing to listen to the truth and turning away from righteousness.

False Religion Worthless - Chapter 7

Jeremiah delivers a message from God warning the people of Judah. God calls for genuine repentance and just actions. The people practice idolatry and sin while claiming they are safe. God reminds them of Shiloh's destruction as a precedent and declares the same fate for the temple. He will not listen to their prayers due to their idolatry and disobedience. Despite sending prophets, the people remained stubborn and evil, so God says that He will pour out his wrath and reject this unrepentant generation.

The Valley Of Slaughter

The people of Judah have done evil in the eyes of God by placing idols in God's temple and sacrificing their children in the Valley of Ben Hinnom. As a consequence, this valley will be renamed the Valley of Slaughter, filled with unburied corpses that are preyed upon by birds and animals. There will be no joy or celebration in Judah and Jerusalem, and the land will become desolate.

The Valley Of Slaughter (cont.) - Chapter 8

God declares that the bones of Judah's kings, officials, priests, prophets, and people will be exposed and lie unburied, like dung on the ground. Survivors of this wicked nation will be scattered in exile and will find life so unbearable that they will prefer death.

Sin And Punishment

Jeremiah delivers God's message, questioning why the people of Jerusalem persist in their deceit and refuse to repent. God laments, “When people fall down, do they not get up? When someone turns away, do they not return?” He highlights their failure to acknowledge their wrongdoings, and despite claiming wisdom from the law, the people have corrupted it through false teachings and greed. The people think express a false sense of peace when there is none. God promises severe punishment for their unrepentant actions: their lands and harvests will be taken away, and they will face attacks from their enemies. God warns, “I will give their wives to other men and their fields to new owners.” Amidst this, God expresses sorrow over their crushed state. Jeremiah also expresses sorrow, mourning the people's fate and lamenting the absence of a remedy for their spiritual wounds.

Sin And Punishment (cont.) - Chapter 9

Jeremiah laments over their sinfulness and wishes he could leave them due to their wickedness. God acknowledgees their lying and slander so he says that He "will refine and test them.” God describes friends and neighbors as untrustworthy and corrupt at this time. God promises to punish their deceit, making Jerusalem desolate. The people have forsaken God's law and worshipped false gods. God will scatter them among unknown nations and pursue them with the sword. God calls for wailing women to mourn the desolation. The LORD speaks of death entering homes and children being taken from the streets. God warns against boasting in wisdom, strength, or riches, rather one should only boast about knowing Him, who delights in kindness, justice, and righteousness. God will punish those circumcised only in the flesh, including surrounding nations, highlighting Israel’s spiritual unfaithfulness.

God And Idols - Chapter 10

God warns Israel not to adopt the practices of other nations, who create and worship lifeless idols. The idols are made from wood and adorned with silver and gold that cannot speak, walk, or act, meaning they are powerless. Unlike these worthless idols, God is unparalleled in power and greatness. The LORD is the true, living God who created the earth and controls nature with His might. God, the Portion of Jacob, is the creator of all, including Israel, His inheritance.

Coming Destruction

Jeremiah delivers a message to the people under siege from God that commands the people to prepare for exile. God will force them out of the land and bring distress upon them. Jeremiah laments his incurable wound, which is a metaphorical description of the spiritual or emotional distress he is experiencing. His tent (symbolizing the nation) is destroyed, his children are gone, and no one is left to rebuild. The leaders (shepherds) are foolish and do not seek God, which leads to their downfall and the scattering of their people. An impending threat from the north will devastate Judah, turning its towns into desolate ruins.

Jeremiah's Prayer

Jeremiah prays to God and acknowledges that human lives are guided by God and not by their own will. He asks the LORD to discipline him with fairness, not in anger because God could destroy him. Jeremiah pleads for God's wrath to be directed towards the nations that do not recognize Him and have destroyed Jacob (Israel).

The Covenant Is Broken - Chapter 11

Jeremiah receives a message from the LORD regarding the covenant made with Judah and Jerusalem. God tells him to proclaim that those who disobey God's covenant are cursed. Despite warnings, the people persist in idolatry. The LORD declares disaster and refuses to listen to their cries. Their worship of false gods like Baal ignites God's anger. Even if they pray, they will not be heard. The LORD compares Judah to a once-thriving olive tree, now facing destruction due to their evil deeds, symbolizing the impending disaster for both Israel and Judah.

Plot Against Jeremiah

Jeremiah recounts how the LORD revealed a plot against him by the people of Anathoth. They planned to kill him and erase his memory from the land. Jeremiah appeals to the righteous judgment of the LORD and asks for vengeance. The LORD promises punishment for Anathoth. Their young men will perish by the sword, famine will claim their sons and daughters, and no remnant will remain.

Jeremiah's Complaint - Chapter 12

Jeremiah questions God's justice by asking why the wicked prosper while the faithful suffer. He observes that despite the wicked's apparent success, their hearts are far from God. Jeremiah asks God to intervene and judge the wicked to bring their downfall. He laments the consequences of the people's wickedness, which can be seen by the desolation of the land and the suffering of the people. Jeremiah expresses concern that people doubt God's awareness of their actions and their eventual consequences.

God's Answer

God's response to Jeremiah's complaint is a reminder of the greater challenges ahead. God explains the severity of upcoming trials and warns Jeremiah of upcoming betrayal, even within his own family. God expresses His disappointment and announces the abandonment of His inheritance, symbolizing Jerusalem's impending destruction. He describes the future destruction of the land due to their disregard for His commands. However, God promises restoration for those who repent and return to Him. God assures that He will eventually show compassion and reunite His people with their inheritance, but warns of destruction for those who persist in disobedience.

A Linen Belt - Chapter 13

God instructs Jeremiah to buy a linen belt and wear it without washing it. Later, Jeremiah is told to hide the belt in a rocky crevice at Perath. After many days, God commands Jeremiah to retrieve the belt that is now ruined and useless. The belt showed Jeremiah God's message that, just as the belt became worthless, so will the pride of Judah and Jerusalem be ruined. Despite being meant to be close to God, the people’s stubbornness and idolatry have rendered them as useless as the spoiled belt.

Wineskins

God commands Jeremiah to tell the people of Israel that every wineskin should be filled with wine. The people respond by saying that they know wineskins are meant to hold wine. After, Jeremiah is to deliver God's message that He will fill everyone in the land with drunkenness, including kings, priests, prophets, and residents of Jerusalem. This indicates that God will bring chaos and destruction by causing people to fight against each other.

Threat Of Captivity

God warns the people of Israel to humble themselves and give glory to Him before He brings darkness and causes them to stumble. If they do not listen, He will grieve their pride, as His flock will be taken captive. God calls on the king and queen mother to relinquish their thrones, as Judah will be exiled. Cities will be deserted, and the people will face anguish and captivity due to their sins. He will scatter them, expose their shame and idolatrous actions, and question how long Jerusalem will remain unclean.

Drought, Famine, Sword - Chapter 14

Jeremiah delivers a message from God about the severe drought in Judah that caused widespread despair as cisterns are dry and the land and people mourn. Jeremiah acknowledges Judah's sin but pleads with God for intervention for His sake. God says that He will punish their wickedness and tells Jeremiah not to pray for their well-being. Despite their fasting and offerings, God will bring destruction through the sword, famine, and plague. False prophets misleading the people with promises of peace will perish, and those who believed them will suffer the same fate. Jeremiah is commanded to lament for the wounded people. Jeremiah asks God if He has completely rejected Judah while reminding Him of the covenant and asserting that only God, not idols, can bring relief.

Drought, Famine, Sword (cont.) - Chapter 15

God delivers a message to Jeremiah to declare that even the intercession of Moses and Samuel could not sway His decision to punish Judah for its persistent sins. The people are destined for death, sword, starvation, or captivity. God says that four destroyers will bring devastation to make Judah abhorrent to all nations due to the sins of Manasseh. The four destroyers are the sword, dogs, birds, and wild animals. Jerusalem will face bereavement and destruction. God will increase the number of widows and bring terror upon the people. Jeremiah laments his cursed life and the nation's strife. God promises to deliver him for a purpose and make his enemies plead in distress. Despite his suffering, Jeremiah finds joy in God's words and remains separated from revelers (i.e. pleaser seekers). God promises restoration for His people if they repent and speak worthy words. God will fortify them and provide safety against opponents and deliverance from the wicked.

Day Of Disaster - Chapter 16

God delivers a message to Jeremiah for the people of Judah. God instructs the people not to marry or have children since they will soon face severe judgment. The people will suffer from deadly diseases, sword, and famine. There will be no mourning or burial for the dead. God has withdrawn His blessings, love, and pity from Judah due to their persistent wickedness. God says not to mourn or feast for there will be no joy or normalcy in Judah. When the people ask why this has happened, Jeremiah is to explain that it is because they have forsaken God, followed other gods, and ignored His laws. Their sins are greater than those of their ancestors. God also promises future restoration. He will bring the Israelites back from exile and repay their sins, but will show His power and might, leading the nations to acknowledge Him as the true God.

Day Of Disaster (cont.) - Chapter 17

God expresses Judah's sin and the consequences they will face. The children even remember the altars and Asherah poles, indicating how ingrained the practices are. God warns that their wealth and treasures will be taken as plunder because of their sin, and they will lose their inheritance and be enslaved in a foreign land. Those who trust in man and turn away from the LORD are cursed and will not have prosperity. Those who trust in the LORD are blessed, like a tree planted by water, always fruitful and unafraid of drought. Unjust riches will ultimately desert their owners. God is the hope and sanctuary of Israel, and those who forsake Him will be put to shame. Jeremiah prays for healing, salvation, and protection, asking for his persecutors to face disaster instead.

Keeping The Sabbath Day Holy

God instructs Jeremiah to deliver a message at the gates of Jerusalem, where the kings and people of Judah pass. God commands the people to keep the Sabbath day holy by not carrying any load or doing any work on that day. This commandment was given to their ancestors, but they had been disobedient. God promises that if they obey and honor the Sabbath, Jerusalem will prosper. Kings from David's line will continue to enter the city, accompanied by officials and people from Judah and Jerusalem, and the city will be inhabited forever. People will bring offerings and sacrifices to the LORD’s house. However, if they disobey and fail to keep the Sabbath holy, He will kindle an unquenchable fire at the gates of Jerusalem.

At The Potter's House - Chapter 18

God sends Jeremiah to a potter's house to deliver His message. As the potter reshapes and corrects clay that is marred, God has the power to do the same with His people and mold the destiny of nations. If a nation turns from evil, God will stop His destruction, but if they persist in wickedness, He will withhold blessings. God warns Judah of impending disaster due to their idolatry and stubbornness. Despite Jeremiah's warnings, they plot against him. Jeremiah pleads for justice and asks God to avenge him against his adversaries. He prays for retribution on those who seek his harm and acknowledges God's omniscience to expose their schemes and execute judgment.

At The Potter's House (cont.) - Chapter 19

God instructs Jeremiah to buy a clay jar and gather some elders and priests to accompany him to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, near the Potsherd Gate. Jeremiah proclaims God's message of impending disaster on Jerusalem and Judah due to their idolatry and child sacrifices. God renames the Valley of Ben Hinnom to the Valley of Slaughter due to the upcoming devastation. God declares that He will ruin Judah's plans by causing them to fall to their enemies. The city will be so besieged and many will resort to cannibalism. Jeremiah breaks the clay jar as a symbol of how God will shatter the nation beyond repair. The dead will be buried in Topheth until no space remains. Jeremiah reiterates this message in the temple courts and God calls the people stubborn for refusing to listen to His warnings.

Jeremiah And Pashhur - Chapter 20

The priest Pashhur, an official in the LORD’s temple, hears Jeremiah prophesying Jerusalem's devastation, so he has Jeremiah beaten and put in stocks (scaffold where prisoners were detained in a crooked position) at the Upper Gate of Benjamin. The next day, when Pashhur releases him, Jeremiah delivers a message from the LORD to rename Pashhur "Terror on Every Side." This name means that Pashhur will become a terror to himself and his friends, witnessing their downfall by the sword. He declares that God will hand over Judah to the king of Babylon, who will either kill or take them into exile. Additionally, all the wealth, products, valuables, and treasures of Jerusalem will be seized and taken to Babylon. Pashhur and his household will be exiled to Babylon, where they will die and be buried, alongside the friends to whom he prophesied lies.

Jeremiah's Complaint

Jeremiah feels deceived and overpowered by God, which has resulted in mockery from others. Despite the suffering brought by proclaiming God's message, he cannot hold back God's word. Jeremiah describes God's word as a fire that burns from within him. His friends plot against him and hope for his downfall, but Jeremiah trusts in God. He seeks God's vengeance on his enemies and praises God for rescuing the needy from the wicked. Nevertheless, Jeremiah curses the day of his birth, lamenting the misery and shame that have characterized his life.

God Rejects Zedekiah's Request - Chapter 21

King Zedekiah sends Pashhur and Zephaniah to make a request to God through Jeremiah as Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian forces besiege Jerusalem. Jeremiah delivers a message from God that He will turn the city's weapons against itself and fight against Jerusalem in anger. A plague will strike down both man and beast. Survivors, including Zedekiah, will be handed over to Nebuchadnezzar without mercy. The people face a choice between life and death, but those who stay in the city will die by sword, famine, or plague, while those who surrender to the Babylonians will live. God commands the royal house of Judah to help the oppressed to avoid His wrath.

Judgment Against Wicked Kings - Chapter 22

God tells the king of Judah to uphold justice and righteousness and warns that failure to keep His command will lead to ruin. God condemns Shallum and Jehoiakim, who will die in exile. Jehoiachin and his mother will die in exile and none of his offspring will prosper or rule in Judah. God's message describes the consequences of forsaking God's covenant and practicing oppression, injustice, and idolatry.

The Righteous Branch - Chapter 23

God condemns the corrupt leaders ("shepherds") of Israel for scattering and neglecting His people. He will punish these leaders and gather the remnants of His flock from all nations back to their homeland where they will thrive under new, caring leaders. God promises to raise up a righteous King from David's line, the "Righteous Branch," who will rule with wisdom, justice, and righteousness. This King will bring salvation to Judah and safety to Israel. The people will no longer talk about their deliverance from Egypt, but their return from exile, as a testament to God's enduring salvation.

Lying Prophets

Jeremiah condemns the false prophets of Israel due to their corruption. The land suffers because of their immorality and godlessness. God promises to punish them with disaster. The false prophets of Samaria and Jerusalem have led the people to worship Baal and deceit. They spread false hope, promise peace to those who reject God, and condone evil. God asserts that these prophets were not sent by Him and have not stood in His council. True prophets would have turned people from their wickedness. God warns of His impending wrath and declares His omnipresence, noting that the false prophets cannot hide their lies.

False Prophecy

God instructs Jeremiah how to respond when people ask him for a message from God. Jeremiah is to say that God will forsake them. If anyone claims to have a message from the LORD, God will punish them and their households. The people are warned not to misuse God's words or falsely claim divine messages. Those who continue claiming they have a message from the LORD will be forgotten by God.

Two Baskets Of Figs - Chapter 24

Jeremiah sees a vision of two baskets of figs in front of the temple of the LORD. One basket contains good figs, symbolizing the exiles from Judah whom God regards favorably. God promises to watch over them, bring them back to their land, and give them a heart to know Him. The other basket contains bad figs, symbolizing Zedekiah, his officials, and the survivors from Jerusalem. God declares that He will make them abhorrent to other nations and subject them to subjecting them to banishment from the land until they are destroyed.

Seventy Years Of Captivity - Chapter 25

During the fourth year of Jehoiakim as king of Judah, Jeremiah delivered a message from God to the people of Judah, explaining that for 23 years He warned them to turn from their evil ways, but they did not listen. Due to their rebellion, God provides a prophecy that He will use Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, to destroy Judah and surrounding nations. Judah and these nations will serve Babylon for seventy years. After this period, God will punish Babylon for its guilt with desolation.

The Cup Of God's Wrath

God tells Jeremiah to take a symbolic cup of His wrath and make all the nations drink from it, to symbolize and foretell His judgment. This will cause them to stagger, go mad, and fall due to the sword God will send. Jeremiah obeys, making various nations, including Judah, Egypt, the Philistines, Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, Sidon, and many others, drink from the cup. God declares that refusal to drink is not an option, as He is bringing disaster upon them all. The prophecy emphasizes widespread judgment where slain will be countless and unburied, while shepherds and leaders will have no escape.

Jeremiah Threatened With Death - Chapter 26

Early in King Jehoiakim's reign, God commands Jeremiah to stand in the temple courtyard and warn the people of Judah to repent or face destruction like Shiloh. In anger, the priests and prophets seize Jeremiah and threaten him with death. Jeremiah defends his prophecy and warns that killing him will bring innocent blood upon them. The officials and people decide Jeremiah should not die, recognizing he speaks for God. Some of the elders reference the prophet Micah, who was not killed for similar prophecies. Hezekiah sought God’s favor instead of punishing Micah. They also recall Uriah, another prophet, who was killed by King Jehoiakim for his prophecies. Ahikam also supported Jeremiah to prevent his execution.

Judah To Serve Nebuchadnezzar - Chapter 27

Early in King Zedekiah's reign, God instructs Jeremiah to make a yoke and wear it to symbolize his submission. God instructs Jeremiah to send a message to the kings of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon that God is giving their lands to Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. All nations must serve Nebuchadnezzar or face destruction by sword, famine, and plague. False prophets claiming otherwise are lying. Jeremiah delivers the same message to Zedekiah and the people, urging them to serve Babylon to avoid ruin. The remaining temple articles will also be taken to Babylon and only restored when God wills.

The False Prophet Hananiah - Chapter 28

In the fifth month of Zedekiah's fourth year as king, the prophet Hananiah falsely proclaims in the temple that God will break Babylon and return the temple articles and exiles within two years. Jeremiah responds by acknowledging that if Hananiah's prophecy of peace comes true, it will validate his claim. Hananiah breaks the yoke from Jeremiah's neck to symbolize Babylon's defeat. God tells Jeremiah to inform Hananiah that he replaced a wooden yoke with an iron one to symbolize Babylon's dominance. Jeremiah condemns Hananiah for spreading lies, predicting his death within the year. Hananiah dies two months later, which validates Jeremiah's prophecy.

A Letter To The Exiles - Chapter 29

Jeremiah writes a letter with God's message to the elders, priests, prophets, and other exiles that Nebuchadnezzar took from Jerusalem to Babylon. God advises them to settle down, build homes, plant gardens, and seek the city's prosperity. He warns against listening to false prophets. God promises to restore them after seventy years and bring them back to Jerusalem. Those who remained in Jerusalem will face the sword, famine, and plague due to their disobedience. The false prophets Ahab and Zedekiah will be executed by Nebuchadnezzar for their lies and adultery.

Message To Shemaiah

Jeremiah receives a message from God regarding Shemaiah, who sent unauthorized letters to Jerusalem. The letters urged Zephaniah the priest to imprison Jeremiah for his prophecies. Shemaiah criticized Jeremiah for telling the exiles in Babylon to settle down and build lives, claiming this prophecy was false. However, Zephaniah read Shemaiah’s letter to Jeremiah. In response to his lies, God declares that Shemaiah and his descendants will be punished and will not witness the good things God plans for His people.

Restoration Of Israel - Chapter 30

Jeremiah delivers God's message promising to deliver Israel and Judah from captivity. God will break their bonds and they will no longer be enslaved so they will serve the LORD and a new king from David's line. Despite their incurable wounds and guilt, God promises healing and restoration. Their fortunes will be restored, cities rebuilt, and numbers increased. Songs of thanksgiving will fill the land, and a new leader will rise from among them. The LORD's wrath will fall on the wicked, but His plans for His people will be fully accomplished.

Restoration Of Israel (cont.) - Chapter 31

God declares He will be the God of all Israel who will restore and bring them back from exile. God will provide the survivors of His judgment favor, rest, and His everlasting love. Israel will flourish, God's people with gather from afar, and He will act as their shepherd deliver and redeem them. God promises to turn their sorrow into joy and bless them abundantly. God foretells that people will be held accountable for their own sins, not the sins of their parents or children. He will establish a new covenant, writing His law on their hearts, so they will all know Him directly and be His people. God says He "will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." The city will be rebuilt for Him and never be "uprooted or demolished."

Jeremiah Buys A Field - Chapter 32

While besieged by the Babylonians and imprisoned by King Zedekiah for prophesying Jerusalem's fall, Jeremiah receives a message from God to buy his cousin Hanamel's field in Anathoth as a symbolic act of faith in God. Jeremiah instructed Baruch to store the deeds in a clay jar for long-term preservation, signifying that fields and properties would again be traded in the land. Jeremiah's purchase of the field symbolizes his trust in the LORD. God foretold Jeremiah of destruction but also promised eventual restoration for the land and His people. God tells Jeremiah that Jerusalem will fall due to the people’s persistent sins, but God will gather the exiles back, establish a new everlasting covenant, and provide prosperity.

Promise Of Restoration - Chapter 33

While imprisoned, God delivers a message to Jeremiah regarding Jerusalem's restoration. God will bring peace and forgiveness to Judah and Israel. He will rebuild them, making Jerusalem a source of joy and honor among nations. He promises a future where David's lineage will always have a ruler on Israel's throne, and the Levitical priests will continue their service. God emphasizes that His covenant is unbreakable. The restoration will even make desolate places thrive, showing God's enduring love and commitment to His people.

Warning To Zedekiah - Chapter 34

During the siege, the LORD instructed Jeremiah to deliver a message to King Zedekiah of Judah. The LORD declared that Jerusalem would be handed over to Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, who would burn the city. Zedekiah would not escape but would be captured and taken to Babylon. However, God promised Zedekiah that he would not die by the sword but would die peacefully. His death would be honored with a funeral fire, like his royal predecessors.

Freedom For Slaves

Zedekiah made a covenant with the people of Jerusalem to free their Hebrew slaves, in accordance with the law given by the LORD. While the people initially complied, they soon re-enslaved them. The LORD reminded them of the covenant made with their ancestors after the Exodus, which mandated the release of Hebrew slaves every seventh year. By taking back the freed slaves, the people profaned God's name. For rebelling against His word, God declared that they would face the sword, plague, and famine. God stated that Zedekiah and his officials would be handed over to the Babylonian army, which would return to besiege and destroy Jerusalem and the towns of Judah.

The Rekabites - Chapter 35

During the reign of Jehoiakim, God instructed Jeremiah to invite the Rekabite family to the temple and offer them wine. Jeremiah offered the Rekabites wine but they refused to drink, citing a command from their forefather Jehonadab for his descendants to abstain from wine, not build houses, sow seeds, or plant vineyards, but live in tents as nomads. The Rekabites faithfully obeyed these commands. God then used the Rekabites as an example to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. Despite repeated warnings through prophets to abandon their wicked ways and idolatry, the people of Judah did not listen or obey God. In contrast, the Rekabites had remained steadfast in following their ancestor's instructions. God declared that because the people of Judah had rebelled, He would bring disaster. God promised that Jehonadab's descendants would always have someone serving Him.

Jehoiakim Burns Jeremiah's Scroll - Chapter 36

In the fourth year of King Jehoiakim's reign, God instructed Jeremiah to write His words on a scroll. Jeremiah was told to write of the disaster of Israel, Judah, and other nations, hoping the people would repent. Jeremiah dictated, and Baruch wrote the scroll, which he read to the people during a fast. The officials reported Jeremiah to the king, who burned the scroll despite the officials warning him not to burn the scroll. God commanded Jeremiah to rewrite the scroll with additional warnings that Jehoiakim would have no successor on David's throne, his body would be left unburied, and all the prophesied disasters would come upon him and Judah for their disobedience.

Jeremiah In Prison - Chapter 37

King Zedekiah, who was placed by Nebuchadnezzar, ignored Jeremiah's prophecies. However, Zedekiah sent messengers to request Jeremiah’s prayers. Jeremiah was later imprisoned when falsely accused of defecting to the Babylonians. Jeremiah was beaten and jailed. During a private audience with Zedekiah, Jeremiah foretold that Jerusalem would fall to Babylon. He asked Zedekiah why he was being imprisoned while contrasting his true prophecies with the false prophets who claimed Babylon wouldn’t attack. In response, Zedekiah had Jeremiah moved to the courtyard of the guard, where he received daily bread until it ran out.

Jeremiah Thrown Into A Cistern - Chapter 38

Jeremiah's prophecy about Jerusalem's fall angered officials, who convinced King Zedekiah to allow them to punish Jeremiah. The officials threw Jeremiah into a cistern. Ebed-Melek, another official, informed Zedekiah of Jeremiah's situation, calling the act wicked, and stated that Jeremiah would starve. Zedekiah ordered Ebed-Melek to rescue Jeremiah, so Ebed-Melek gathered men and pulled Jeremiah out of the muddy cistern. Jeremiah stayed in the courtyard afterward.

Zedekiah Questions Jeremiah Again

Zedekiah summons Jeremiah and promises his safety. Jeremiah tells Zedekiah to surrender to Babylon so God will spare their lives, but warns that refusing to surrender will bring destruction. Zedekiah tells Jeremiah that he is afraid the Babylonians will hand him over to the Jews who already went to Babylon. Jeremiah promises Zedekiah that he will not be handed over if he surrenders. Zedekiah instructs Jeremiah to keep their conversation secret to avoid death. Officials question Jeremiah, and he repeats what Zedekiah told him to say and the officials leave him alone. Jeremiah stays in the courtyard until Babylon conquers Jerusalem.

The Fall Of Jerusalem - Chapter 39

In the ninth year of Zedekiah's reign, Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem and breached the walls in Zedekiah's eleventh year. Zedekiah fled but was captured. Nebuchadnezzar executed his sons, destroyed Jerusalem's buildings, and exiled its inhabitants. A commander of the guard left behind poor who owned nothing and gave them vineyards and fields. Jeremiah was spared and entrusted to Gedaliah. While confined, Jeremiah received a message from God to deliver to Ebed-Melek, promising his safety.

The Fall Of Jerusalem - Chapter 40

Nebuzaradan released Jeremiah and through Nebuzaradan, delivered a message to Jeremiah to go to Babylon with him or to stay in Judah. Nebuzaradan acknowledged that God had decreed the disaster upon Jerusalem and Judah due to their sins. Nebuzaradan offering to care for him in Babylon, but he gave Jeremiah the option to stay in Judah under Gedaliah's governance. Jeremiah chose to join Gedaliah at Mizpah, where he remained among the remnant of people.

Gedaliah Assassinated

After Gedaliah was appointed governor by the king of Babylon, he assured the people, including those who returned from exile, that serving Babylon would bring peace and prosperity. Gedaliah remained at Mizpah to represent them to the Babylonians, while they were instructed to cultivate the land. Johanan and other army officers warned Gedaliah that Ishmael, sent by the Ammonite king, intended to assassinate him. Despite their warning, Gedaliah dismissed the threat.

Gedaliah Assassinated (cont.) - Chapter 41

Ishmael later assassinated Gedaliah and those with him, including Babylonian soldiers. The next day, eighty men from various regions came to worship at the temple, but Ishmael deceitfully led them to their deaths, throwing their bodies into a cistern. Some men offered bribes of food to spare their lives, which Ishmael accepted. Ishmael captured the remaining inhabitants of Mizpah and planned to take them to the Ammonites. After hearing what Ishmael did, Johanan and his army confronted him near Gibeon. Ishmael's followers deserted him to join Johanan, while Ishmael and a few others fled to the Ammonites, evading capture.

Flight To Egypt

After Johanan rescued the survivors, he led them to Geruth Kimham near Bethlehem to seek refuge in Egypt from the Babylonians. Despite their initial hesitation to go to Egypt, fearing it would not be God's will, they decided it was the best option for their safety.

Flight To Egypt (cont.) - Chapter 42

The army officers, Johanan, and the people asked Jeremiah to pray to God for guidance. They vowed to obey God's instruction, whether favorable or not. After ten days, God delivered a message through Jeremiah stating that if they remained in the land, God would protect and restore them from Babylon, but if they went to Egypt, disaster awaited them. Despite the warning, they went to Egypt. Their disobedience God foretold of their death by sword, famine, and plague in Egypt.

Flight To Egypt (cont.) - Chapter 43

Azariah, Johanan, and other dissenters accused him of lying, claiming that Baruch was manipulating him to hand them over to the Babylonians. Disobeying God's command, Johanan and his followers led the people to Egypt. In Tahpanhes, God instructed Jeremiah to bury large stones as a symbol of Nebuchadnezzar's imminent conquest of Egypt. Nebuchadnezzar would bring death, captivity, and destruction upon Egypt, including its gods and temples. God foretold that Nebuchadnezzar would cleanse Egypt of its inhabitants and leave.

Disaster Because Of Idolatry - Chapter 44

Jeremiah delivers a message from the LORD regarding the Jews living in Egypt to warn them about idolatry. Despite witnessing Jerusalem's destruction due to idol worship, they continued in their evil ways and ignored the warnings of the prophets, so God promised disaster due to their disobedience. Many ignored Jeremiah and continued to worship the Queen of Heaven. The women defended their idolatry by claiming it brought prosperity. Jeremiah rebuked them, reminding them of God's judgment on Judah for their sins, and warned that invoking God's name falsely would lead to destruction. The LORD foretold harm to those in Egypt and the downfall of Pharaoh Hophra.

A Message About Baruch - Chapter 45

Jeremiah provided Baruch, who was feeling sorrowful and overwhelmed, a message from the LORD. God assured Baruch that seeking personal greatness in a time of impending disaster was futile. Instead, he should focus on preserving his life. God promised to protect him wherever he went.

A Message About Egypt - Chapter 46

Jeremiah prophesies Egypt's downfall to Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Jeremiah warns of destruction and foretells that, while Egypt will be prepared to battle, their effort will be in vain. The LORD declares punishment on Egypt, its gods, and its leaders. God foretells restoration for Israel, assuring them of peace and protection during exile. God promises not to completely destroy Israel, but states that he "will not let [them] go entirely unpunished."

A Message About The Philistines - Chapter 47

The LORD foretells that the Philistines' cities will be overrun. The chaos is described by parental instincts failing during the destruction that will leave no survivors to aid Tyre and Sidon. The Philistines' end is decreed by the LORD, with Gaza mourning and Ashkelon silenced. God says that he cannot rest from pursuing judgment after He foretold his destruction of Ashkelon and the coast.

A Message About Moab - Chapter 48

Jeremiah delivers a prophecy from the LORD regarding Moab. Their cities and strongholds will be ruined and captured. Despite their reliance on their own deeds and riches, Moab will suffer devastation. The prophecy describes the widespread destruction, mourning, and shame that will befall Moab, likening their pride to futile insolence. Their offerings and high places will be put to an end. The LORD describes their destruction, exile, and captivity, but promises restoration of their fortune.

A Message About Ammon - Chapter 49

Jeremiah delivers a prophecy from the LORD regarding the Ammonites, condemning their idolatry and their unjust possession of Gad, a territory belonging to Israel. The LORD foretells the destruction of Rabbah, the capital of the Ammonites. The Ammonites are called to mourn their impending exile, symbolized by the departure of Molek, their false god, along with his priests and officials. God questions their trust in riches, saying that He will bring the Ammonites terror from all sides. However, He promises restoration for the Ammonites after their punishment.

A Message About Edom

The LORD condemns Edom for their arrogance and deceit. God foretells their desolation, comparing it to the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. Despite their confidence, Edom will be humbled, and their land will become uninhabitable. The LORD emphasizes his power over Edom's fate by comparing their destruction to the swift action of a lion chasing their prey.

A Message About Damascus

Jeremiah delivers a prophecy from the LORD regarding Damascus. The LORD foretells their downfall, with neighboring regions being disheartened by the news. The LORD declares that fire will consume the city's walls and fortresses, symbolizing its destruction and the end of its power.

A Message About Kedar And Hazor

The LORD tells Kedar and Hazor to prepare for an attack by Babylon. Their tents and flocks will be plundered. The LORD describes the destruction of Hazor which will become a desolate place.

A Message About Elam

Jeremiah delivers a prophecy from the LORD regarding Elam foretelling the breaking of their military strength and their scattering to distant lands. The LORD will bring disaster to Elam, pursuing them with his sword until their destruction is complete. Despite this judgment, God promises restoration for Elam in the future.

A Message About Babylon - Chapter 50

The LORD, through Jeremiah, foretold Babylon's downfall. God declared that Babylon will be shamed and terrified. A northern nation will devastate the land, causing both people and animals to flee. Israel and Judah will seek the LORD with repentance and renew their covenant with Him. The people of Babylon are told to flee as an alliance of nations will attack and capture Babylon. The LORD promises to punish Babylon's king and restore Israel to its land. Like Sodom and Gomorrah, Babylon will face destruction and become desolate. An approaching army from the north will defeat Babylon. The LORD, as Israel's Redeemer, will bring rest to Israel and ruin to Babylon.

A Message About Babylon (cont.) - Chapter 51

God declares that he will send foreign invaders to devastate Babylon and defeat its army. The people of Israel and Judah are instructed to flee Babylon to avoid sharing Babylon's punishment. God describes Babylon's power that influenced nations but foretold that they will fall and be broken beyond healing. The LORD will stir the Medes and other kingdoms to attack Babylon for destroying His temple. Babylon's defenses will fail, their warriors will become weak, and the city will be captured. God condemns their idolatry and proclaims His authority as the Creator. After writing God's message regarding Babylon's destruction, Jeremiah instructs to Seraiah to read the prophecy aloud in Babylon. After, Seraiah is to tie a stone to the scroll and throw the scroll into the Euphrates to symbolize that Babylon will fall and not rise.

The Fall Of Jerusalem - Chapter 52

The fall of Jerusalem is described with the final days of King Zedekiah's reign and the subsequent destruction and exile under the Babylonians. Zedekiah, who became king at twenty-one, reigned for eleven years but did evil in God's sight, leading to divine judgment against Jerusalem and Judah. In Zedekiah's ninth year, Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon besieged Jerusalem. The siege lasted until Zedekiah's eleventh year, when famine outbroke. The city walls were breached, and Zedekiah and his soldiers attempted to escape but were captured near Jericho. Zedekiah was taken to Riblah, where his sons and Judah's officials were killed before his eyes. His eyes were then put out, and he was taken in chains to Babylon, where he remained imprisoned until his death. In Nebuchadnezzar's nineteenth year, Nebuzaradan, the commander of the guard, arrived in Jerusalem, setting fire to the temple, the palace, and all significant buildings, and breaking down the city walls. Most of the remaining inhabitants were exiled, though the poorest were left to tend the land. The Babylonians looted the temple, taking valuable items and bronze structures, including the pillars and the bronze Sea made by Solomon. Many, including priests and officials, were taken to Riblah and executed. The total number of exiles over several years amounted to 4,600 people.

Jehoiachin Released

After thirty-seven years of exile, Jehoiachin was released from prison by Awel-Marduk, the new king of Babylon. Awel-Marduk treated Jehoiachin kindly, giving him a seat of honor higher than other captive kings in Babylon. For the rest of his life, Jehoiachin enjoyed a place at the king's table. He was also provided a daily allowance by the Babylonian king, ensuring his sustenance until his death.