Tuesday, February 28th 2017
I WILL BRING YOU BACK
key verse: 44
Jeremiah again recites the history of Israel in light of their approaching return. Before receiving blessing, we must receive a history lesson.
1. Buy a field and sign a contract (1-15)
Nebuchadnezzar has laid seige to Jerusalem. Jeremiah is in prison because he prophesized misfortune to the king and the people. God calls him and says to buy a field from his uncle, signing the deed under the eyes of witnesses. Jeremiah does this, though it's a foolish act, since we don't know if he will still be alive tomorrow or even the day after. Moreover, it seems foolish because invaders will soon conquer the land the deed will no longer be valid. In spite of this, Jeremiah obeys. The deed refers to the covenant. Jeremiah feels that the deed serves to renew the covenant between God and his people, though no more than that for the moment.
2. The word of the Lord came to him (16-44)
The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, who spoke first of God's strength through which nothing is impossible and by which He has done wonders. In spite of that, the people did not listen to His word. Since their youth, they have only committed evil, provoking God's anger. They have committed abominations by worshipping Baal on their rooftops. Because they turned their backs to God, He has turned his back and sent them into captivity in Babylon. Yet, at the end of captivity, they repent, since God has put in them a heart of flesh and fear. Thus, God is glad to plant them in the land. He establishes a new eternal covenant. He wants to sign a deed, since our souls are not definitively lost.
Prayer: Lord, give me the heart and fear so that I confess my sin. Thank you for giving me hope in redemption.
Bottom line: God's deed.
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