Doing My Part - Jeremiah 32:1-44 - February 26, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Doing My Part – February 26, 2006

This is the last lesson in our series “Serving on Purpose.”

Our background scripture is Jeremiah 32:1-44.

Our focus scripture is Jeremiah 32:1-9, 27-30, 37-41.

There are times when we serve GOD we do not see the result of our efforts. There are times GOD asks us to do something that goes against human logic.

This is why our relationship to GOD is so important. When HE tells us something or asks us to do something, what we do next reveals what we believe about GOD. Do we really trust HIM and do what HE asks us to do? If we do not trust GOD in a certain area of our life, it reveals to us a part of our relationship which needs to be strengthened. If we are willing GOD will help strengthen that area in our life. We will have ups and downs in our life as we serve GOD.

We can see from Jeremiah’s life that his relationship with GOD had its’ ups and downs. GOD called Jeremiah to be a prophet and to speak HIS message. Even when we are called and know that we are called our walk can be very difficult. During our walk GOD uses the difficulties to build our character, so we will serve HIM more fully.

Let’s review some of the history during this time in Jeremiah’s life.

The prophet Jeremiah was prophesying that Jerusalem, the temple and Judah would be destroyed. The Israelites would be exiled to Babylon but they would return to Judah someday and rebuild that area, including the city and the temple.

The Babylonians are the force GOD would use to bring destruction upon Judah. The Babylonians rose to power when they defeated the Assyrians in 612 B.C. They defeated the Egyptians at the Battle of Carchemish in 605 B.C. For the next two (2) years the king of Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar, shifted his campaign to the Palestinian coast. The king of Judah, Jehoiakim, resisted King Nebuchadnezzar. Jehoiakim died within a few months after being made king and his brother, Jehoiachin was made king. King Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem in 598 B.C. and King Jehoiachin surrendered in 597 B.C. and became the vassal king of Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar deported many of the Judeans, including Jehoiachin, to Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar appointed Zedekiah to rule Judah. Then King Zedekiah revolted against King Nebuchadnezzar in 589 B.C. The Babylonian forces conquered Jerusalem in 587 B.C. It is during this period of 588/587 B.C. that our lesson takes place.

King Zedekiah had Jeremiah placed in the guard’s courtyard in the palace because of Jeremiah’s prophesy. He had Jeremiah arrested but not thrown into the dungeon. The king believed Jeremiah’s message from GOD would demoralize the people and they would not resist the attack on the city.

Our scripture reveals that while Jeremiah was under arrest, his cousin comes to the guard’s courtyard, to make Jeremiah a deal on a piece of land in his home town of Anathoth. Anathoth is about three (3) miles from Jerusalem.

Let’s read Jeremiah 32:1-5 for background:

1 [This is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord in the tenth year of Zedekiah[1] Jr 27:1–11; 2 Kg 24:17–20; 2 Ch 36:10–12 king of Judah, which was the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar.[2] Jr 29:1 2 At that time, the army of the king of Babylon was besieging Jerusalem, and Jeremiah the prophet was imprisoned in the guard’s courtyard in the palace of the king of Judah. 3 Zedekiah king of Judah had imprisoned him, saying: “Why are you prophesying, ‘This is what the Lord says: Look, I am about to hand this city over to Babylon’s king, and he will capture it. 4 Zedekiah king of Judah will not escape from the Chaldeans; indeed, he will certainly be handed over to Babylon’s king. They will speak face to face[3] Lit His mouth will speak with his mouth and meet eye to eye.[4] Jr 34:3 5 He will take Zedekiah to Babylon where he will stay until I attend to him’—[this is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration. ‘You will fight the Chaldeans, but you will not succeed’?”[5] Jr 21:3–7; 27:22; 34:2–3

This tells us about the situation between Jeremiah and King Zedekiah. Jeremiah had not minced any words with the king but told him exactly what GOD had said.

Let’s continue with Jeremiah 32:6-9:

6 Jeremiah replied, “The word of the Lord came to me: 7 ‘Watch! Hanamel (HAN-uh-mehl), the son of your uncle Shallum (SHAL-uhm), is coming to you to say: Buy my field in Anathoth (AN-uh-thawth)[6] Jr 1:1; 11:21,23; 1 Kg 2:26 for yourself, for you own the right of redemption[7] Lv 25:24–52; Ru 4:1–7 to buy it.’ 8 “Then my cousin Hanamel [came]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to the guard’s courtyard as the Lord had said and urged me, ‘Please buy my field in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, for you own the right of inheritance and redemption. Buy it for yourself.’ Then I knew that this was the word of the Lord. 9 So I bought the field in Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel, and I weighed out to him the money—17 • shekels[8] About 7 ounces of silver.

So GOD gave a message to Jeremiah. GOD can confirm to us in many ways that HE is still actively involved in our lives. GOD gave the message to Jeremiah and then confirmed that message when Hanamel came, through the enemy lines, to the palace to see Jeremiah.

Remember Anathoth is Jeremiah’s home town and is walking distance to Jerusalem. There is a law called the right of redemption found in Leviticus 25:23-28. This law requires that any land of Israel, because it is sacred and part of the promised land given to Abraham and parceled out by Joshua to each of the twelve (12) tribes, if sold, had to be sold to the nearest kinsman. The nearest kinsman had the responsibility to purchase the land if it appeared that the family might loose the land.

We do not know if Hanamel had an eye for business and was taking advantage of his cousin or not. The situation is that the Babylonians are about to defeat the city and if that happens Anathoth would be a ghost town.

It was an opportunity for Jeremiah to show that he believed the message of THE LORD, that the city would one day be rebuilt.

Hanamel’s arrival to the courtyard is Jeremiah’s confirmation that GOD is still very active in his life. What a joy this must have been to Jeremiah. Jeremiah responded by buying the land from Hanamel and having the folks in the courtyard to witness the transaction.

If you read Jeremiah 32:10-26 you will see this is another opportunity for Jeremiah to give a message from THE LORD to the people. This message is a message of hope, reminding the people how GOD led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and even though Jerusalem will be destroyed it will one day be restored. In verse 17 Jeremiah made the statement that nothing is too hard for THE LORD. Verse 26 is a lead-in for our scripture, “Then the word of THE LORD came to Jeremiah.”

Let’s read Jeremiah 32:27-30:

27 “Look, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is anything too difficult for Me? 28 Therefore, this is what the Lord says: I am about to hand this city over to the Chaldeans, to Babylon’s king Nebuchadnezzar, and he will capture it. 29 The Chaldeans who are going to fight against this city will come, set this city on fire, and burn it along with the houses where incense has been burned to • Baal on their rooftops and where drink offerings have been poured out to other gods to provoke Me to anger.[22] Jr 11:17; 32:32; 44:3,8 30 From their youth, the Israelites and Judeans have done nothing but what is evil in My sight! They have done nothing but provoke Me to anger by the work of their hands”—[this is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration—

GOD told Jeremiah that HE is THE LORD of ALL FLESH. This is an interesting statement because the Jews believed GOD belonged to them. GOD made it clear HE is THE LORD of ALL people. This includes these rogues who are going to conquer your city. GOD tells Jeremiah in essence, “When you look all around you might wonder how all of this will turn out, but keep in mind, I AM in control.”

GOD asks Jeremiah “Is anything too hard for ME?” Here is what is going to happen unless the people repent. I think GOD is still offering the hope to the people. If they would change their minds even now and repent, GOD would change the course of events.

GOD offers this same hope to each of us. HE warns us and urges us to change our ways. If we do not, then we will suffer the consequences.

In verse 29, we see the word Chaldeans used. The Chaldeans were a group of people in southeastern Mesopotamia who eventually acquired dominion over Babylon. Therefore the names Chaldeans and Babylonians are used interchangeably.

GOD makes it clear that the reason HE is bringing this destruction is that the Israelites have been worshiping other gods and sacrificing their children. GOD had never even thought about anyone ever sacrificing children.

GOD has given the Israelites fair warning to change but they have ignored HIS plea. Verse 30 uses the words “From their youth” refers to the Israelites’ early existence as a nation. In fact they have even made idols with their own hands and have even brought them into HIS temple.

So enough is enough!

Let’s read Jeremiah 32:37-41:

37 I am about to gather them from all the lands where I have banished them in My wrath, rage, and great fury, and I will return them to this place and make them live in safety.[27] Dt 12:10; Ezk 28:26; 34:25,28 38 They will be My people, and I will be their God. 39 I will give them one heart[28] Ezk 11:19 and one way so that for their good and for [the good of]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. their descendants after them, they will • fear Me always. 40 “I will make with them an everlasting covenant:[29] Jr 50:5; Gn 17:7,13,19; Isa 55:3 I will never turn away from doing good to them, and I will put fear of Me in their hearts so they will never again turn away from Me. 41 I will rejoice over them to do what is good to them, and I will plant them faithfully in this land with all My mind and heart.

In conclusion GOD reassures Jeremiah that HE will gather all of the descendants of the dispersed from all corners of that region and bring them back to rebuild Judah, Jerusalem and the temple.

As we read these verses we can see the promise of THE MESSIAH. HE will establish an everlasting covenant. It will be a covenant established in our hearts. I will plant them in this land has the connotation of GOD establishing HIS Kingdom which will be fully realized with the second coming of JESUS CHRIST.

The message we have studied in Jeremiah highlights our responsibility as Christians to remain faithful to our FATHER. Listen and respond when GOD gives us HIS message for the world around us. We, as followers of CHRIST, may be the only reason our nation will survive the foes who try to conquer it. There are physical foes and spiritual foes. All will try to conquer and destroy.

Dealing With Doubt - Jeremiah 20:1-18 - February 19, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Dealing With Doubt – February 19, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “Serving On Purpose.”

Our background and focus scripture is Jeremiah 20:1-18

Doubt is an important issue for most every Christian. Doubt enters the life of even the most dedicated Christian. The prophet Jeremiah is no different. You would think that if GOD spoke to us in a real way, nothing would ever cause us to doubt. Sometimes, as a Christian, we think we should never have doubts. I think doubts often can be healthy when they lead us to dealing with our doubts or insecurities in THE LORD. Having doubts does not mean we are substandard Christians. However it is important that we confess our doubts to GOD and ask HIM to help us understand or accept a situation which causes us to doubt. It will amaze you how HE can lead you to understanding, placing into proper perspective or accepting a doubt.

Through the scriptures, GOD allows us to see the positives and the negatives of serving HIM through the lives of HIS servants. We see the miracles, the ups and downs and the failures of HIS servants in the scriptures. King David, a man after GOD’S own heart, committed adultery and was responsible for having the husband of the lady (Bathsheba) he was having an affair with killed. David confessed his sins to GOD and GOD forgave him but David had to suffer the consequences of his sin.

Jeremiah was called of GOD for an assignment. He was called to be a prophet and speak GOD’S message to the people. GOD told him it would be a difficult assignment but HE would be with him and deliver him.

So let’s read what happens to our prophet.

Jeremiah 20:1-6:
Jeremiah Beaten by Pashhur (PASH huhr)
1 Pashhur the priest, the son of Immer and chief officer in the house of the Lord, heard Jeremiah prophesying these things. 2 So Pashhur had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put him in the stocks at the Upper Benjamin Gate in the Lord’s temple. 3 The next day, when Pashhur released Jeremiah from the stocks, Jeremiah said to him, “The Lord does not call you Pashhur, but Magor-missabib,[1] = Terror Is on Every Side; Jr 6:25; 20:10; 46:5 4 for this is what the Lord says, ‘I am about to make you a terror to both yourself and those you love. They will fall by the sword of their enemies before your very eyes. I will hand Judah over to the king of Babylon, and he will deport them to Babylon and put them to the sword. 5 I will give away all the wealth of this city, all its products[2] Dt 28:33; Ezk 23:29 and valuables. Indeed, I will hand all the treasures of the kings of Judah over to their enemies. They will plunder them, seize them, and carry them off to Babylon. 6 As for you, Pashhur, and all who live in your house, you will go into captivity. You will go to Babylon. There you will die, and there you will be buried, you and all your friends that you prophesied falsely to.’ ”

Pashhur is a priest who has some administrative duty in the temple, such as keeping order in the temple. Pashhur “likely” (When I use “likely” that means I am not sure, so it is a guess on my part.), viewed Jeremiah’s message as disruptive and certainly in opposition to his, other priest’s and prophet’s opinions regarding what was going to happen to Jerusalem and the temple. They thought, as we discussed last week, that since the city and temple belonged to GOD nothing could harm either. So they believed they were all safe as they long as they remain in or near the city and temple.

Somehow they failed to see that doing the will of GOD is more important than dwelling within the confines of the city and the temple of GOD.

So to humiliate Jeremiah and prevent him from continuing to speak what he says GOD told him to speak, Pashhur had Jeremiah beaten and locked in stocks for 24 hours.

Pashhur had Jeremiah placed at the Upper Benjamin Gate, which is to the north toward the land of Benjamin’s tribal territory. He was placed there so all who passed by could see Jeremiah locked in the stocks and jeer at him. This was designed to humiliate Jeremiah and make him look like a laughing stock and make his message ineffective. Jeremiah had a long time to ponder his situation and he was humiliated and embarrassed. He felt GOD had abandoned him, when he was doing exactly what GOD had asked him to do.

I can see why Jeremiah questioned his situation. Often when we step out of our comfort zone in faith to serve our LORD and things don’t go as we think they should, we feel let down. After all we are representing GOD! HIS reputation is on the line and so is our reputation and credibility. I would pray and ask THE LORD, “LORD, I want you to do something to show these people that I am really your servant. LORD where are YOU? Do YOU see the situation I am in? These people will never believe that YOU sent me. I am a laughing stock. LORD how embarrassing.”

Apparently THE LORD spoke to Jeremiah during his time in the stock because as soon as he is released, Jeremiah tells Pashhur, “THE LORD does not call you Pashhur (Means Free or multiplies liberty) but Magor-missabib (MAY gahr-mi SAY bib), which means “terror on every side”. So Jeremiah has a message from the LORD for Pashhur. Jeremiah had to be gutsy to speak the message after getting out of the stock.

Jeremiah tells Pashhur, GOD is going to punish you because you are not listening to the message GOD gave me to give to you and the people. GOD tells us vengeance is MINE. So GOD tells us to leave the action to be taken against someone to HIM.

This is confirmed in Hebrews 10:30-31, 30 For we know the One who has said, Vengeance belongs to Me, I will repay,[7] Other mss add says the Lord [8] Dt 32:35 and again, The Lord will judge His people.[9] Dt 32:36 31 It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God! Pashhur will live to see this happen to him, his family and friends.

Jeremiah tells Pashhur you, your family and all your friends you have falsely prophesied to, will be deported to Babylon and you all will die there and be buried there. All of the wealth that is in Jerusalem will also be taken and carried off to Babylon. For a Jew to be buried outside the Promised Land was an awful thing to them. So this is a powerful message to Pashhur.

Serving GOD carries an awesome responsibility. Oh that none of us would ever block out the message of GOD. FATHER may we keep our hearts and minds in tune with YOU such that we are always ready and willing to act according to YOUR prompting by THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Let’s read Jeremiah 20:7-10:
Jeremiah’s Period of Doubt but then Compelled to Preach.
7 You deceived me, Lord, and I was deceived. You seized me and prevailed. I am a laughingstock all the time; everyone ridicules me. 8 For whenever I speak, I cry out— I proclaim: Violence and destruction![3] Jr 6:7 because the word of the Lord has become for me constant disgrace and derision. 9 If I say: I won’t mention Him or speak any longer in His name, His message becomes a fire burning in my heart, shut up in my bones. I become tired of holding it in, and I cannot prevail. 10 For I have heard the gossip of the multitudes, “Terror is on every side![4] Hb Magor-missabib; Jr 20:3 [5] Jr 6:25, 20:3, 46:5 Report [him]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. ; let’s report him!” Everyone I trusted[6] Lit Every man of my peace; Ps 41:9 watches for my fall.[7] Ps 35:15; 56:6 “Perhaps he will be deceived so that we might prevail against him and take our vengeance on him.”

Jeremiah’s time in the stock took its toll on him. It leaves him depressed and he begins to doubt. Jeremiah is honest before GOD with his feelings. “LORD, YOU have seduced me.” The words Jeremiah uses carry the idea of the tactics an experienced man would used to seduce a virgin. Promise her anything in order to get what he wants. These are blatant words coming from Jeremiah to THE LORD. LORD YOU are more powerful and experienced than I am and YOU took advantage of me.

These are powerful words but honest words. This is exactly what GOD wants us to do when we have doubts. Be honest with HIM and let HIM know that we have a problem with HIM. GOD already knows but HE wants us to be open with HIM and seek HIS help to deal with it. It is only when we get our problem in the open that GOD can help us put the situation in proper perspective and move back into the proper relationship of service with HIM.

Jeremiah’s words are straight forward, he is upset and is ready to throw in the towel and walk away from his calling. Jeremiah is calling for destruction while all his fellow priests and prophets are saying there is going to be peace and GOD will take care of us. Jeremiah is saying, “LORD this makes me a laughing stock. Do something to confirm the message YOU have asked me to speak.” You can feel his frustration.

Jeremiah continues, “LORD every one is watching everything I do and are hoping I make a mistake, so they can do me harm. They are even gossiping about me. LORD, my credibility is on the line, don’t you care?”

Jeremiah is about as low as he can get but something happens as Jeremiah is lamenting his situation. Does he suddenly remember his calling and the promises GOD made to him?

Let’s read Jeremiah 20:11-13:

11 But the Lord is with me like a violent warrior.[8] Ex 15:3 Therefore, my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. Since they have not succeeded, they will be utterly shamed, an everlasting humiliation that will never be forgotten. 12 Lord of • Hosts, testing the righteous and seeing the heart[9] Lit kidneys and mind, let me see Your vengeance on them, for I have presented my case to You.[10] Jr 11:20 13 Sing to the Lord! Praise the Lord, for He rescues the life of the needy from the hand of evil people.

It seems that Jeremiah remembers that GOD said HE would be with him and deliver him. He likely thinks to himself, “Well, I did get out of the stock and I did give a strong message to Pashhur. Pashhur could have done more harm to me but he didn’t. THE LORD is with me!”

What a joy that over takes us when we remember the love and care of GOD.

Jeremiah continues to ponder, “Gee, LORD YOUR message to Pashhur just sunk into my brain. I just comprehended what YOU had me to say to Pashhur. Something bad is going to happen to all those who want to do me harm. YOU have helped me survive all their efforts to harm me. Now I remember what YOU told me when YOU called me, YOU will deliver me!”

Jeremiah then breaks out in praise to THE LORD. What a blessed and encouraging moment for Jeremiah.

Our lesson scripture ends here but we need to read on for a few more verses.

Let’s read Jeremiah 20:14-18:
Jeremiah’s Lament
14 Cursed be the day on which I was born.[11] Jb 3 The day my mother bore me— let it never be blessed. 15 Cursed be the man who brought the news to my father, saying, “A male child is born to you,” bringing him great joy. 16 Let that man be like the cities the Lord overthrew without compassion. Let him hear an outcry in the morning and a war cry at noontime 17 because he didn’t kill me in the womb so that my mother might have been my grave, her womb eternally pregnant. 18 Why did I come out of the womb to see [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. struggle and sorrow, to end my life in shame?

Jeremiah seems to have a relapse. He goes from praise to regretting the day he was born, even cursing the poor person who told his father that his mother had given birth to a son.

Did Jeremiah suddenly remember again all his woes and that this is only the beginning of his service to GOD? He still had work to do and there would be other tough encounters? We do not know.

The fact is GOD wants us to express our true feelings to HIM. Letting our feelings out is a step toward healing. We see in Jeremiah the foundation of belief when he allows GOD to control his life. The in verses 14-18 we see what happens when we take the control of our life back into our hands. We only see that we are helpless. We are on a roller coaster and no way to stop and get off. That is when we must remember that we are on the roller coaster built by GOD; HE is in control and will get us to our destination.

This is one of the reasons why when we serve THE LORD we must keep in the forefront of our minds that it is all about GOD and HIS care and not us. We must rest in HIM and not focus on the angry waves or storms which may surround us. GOD is our refuge and our strength in the time of need. Any one of us is subject to doubt because we have an enemy Satan, who will try to defeat us and cause us to stop what GOD wants us to do. This fact alone, that is opposition by the enemy, is our confirmation that GOD will accomplish HIS work through us if we stay the course.

Confess any doubt to THE LORD and ask HIM to help you through this moment in your life. It will make you stronger.

Remember the story in Mark 9:14-24 - The Power of Faith over a Demon
14 When they came to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes disputing with them. 15 All of a sudden, when the whole crowd saw Him, they were amazed[4] Or surprised and ran to greet Him. 16 Then He asked them, “What are you arguing with them about?” 17 Out of the crowd, one man answered Him, “Teacher, I brought my son to You. He has a spirit that makes him unable to speak. 18 Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I asked Your disciples to drive it out, but they couldn’t.” 19 He replied to them, “You unbelieving generation![5] Dt 32:5; Mk 6:6; Php 2:15 How long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him to Me.” 20 So they brought him to Him. When the spirit saw Him, it immediately convulsed the boy. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. 21 “How long has this been happening to him?” Jesus asked his father. “From childhood,” he said. 22 “And many times it has thrown him into fire or water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 Then Jesus said to him, “ ‘If You can?’[6] Other mss add believe [7] Jesus appears to quote the father’s words in v. 22 and then comment on them. Everything is possible to the one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the boy cried out, “I do believe! Help my unbelief.”

The father of the boy had to ask JESUS to help his unbelief.

Keep in mind it is not us who has the power; it is GOD who has the power. When we have the relationship with GOD through HIS ONLY SON JESUS, it is HIS power that is manifested through us. Our unbelief can prevent HIS power from flowing through us. Doubt is a form of unbelief. That is why we must deal with doubt when it raises its head in our lives. Go back to the basics and source to remind us of our calling or the moment we accepted CHRIST as our SAVIOR. Confess any doubts and ask GOD to help your unbelief.

Paying A Price To Serve GOD - Jeremiah 26:1-16 - February 12, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Paying a Price to Serve GOD
February 12, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series “Serving on Purpose.”

When GOD calls there is a price to pay:
We have to make a decision whether or not to accept.
We have to get beyond our ability and embrace HIS ability.
When we accept, we may have to be trained for the call.
We may have to relocate to another city, state, country, culture, etc.
We or our family may face danger or death.
We may have to live in substandard conditions or in areas with little or no health care or sanitary conditions.
And the list goes on and on.

GOD is all knowing, so why would GOD call a person to an assignment that would result in their death or the death of a family member? Or call someone to present a message that HE already knows will fall upon spiritually deaf ears?

GOD is all knowing but HIS foreknowledge does not force people to choose. If GOD acted on HIS foreknowledge and withheld HIS message, people would not be given the opportunity to choose, repent or respond.

When GOD calls people to serve HIM, HE gives them specific instructions and they are to follow exactly.

In our scripture last week GOD gave Jeremiah specifics. Let’s review some of these verses.

Jeremiah 1:7-10; 17-19:
“7 Then the Lord said to me: Do not say: I am [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you.[3] Dt 18:18 8 Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. [This is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration. 9 Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth,[4] Isa 6:7 and told me: Look, I have filled your mouth with My words.[5] Isa 51:16 10 See, today I have set you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and demolish, to build and plant.[6] Jr 12:14–17; 19:7; 24:6

Jr 7:17–20; 44:3–6; Dt 29:25–27 17 “Now, get ready. Stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not be intimidated by them or I will cause you to cower before them.[10] Jr 10:2 18 Today, I am the One who has made you a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the population. 19 They will fight against you but never prevail over you, since I am with you to rescue you.” [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration.

When GOD calls us to serve HIM we need to pay special attention to what HE tells us because as an old preacher used to say, “What we learn in the light we have to practice in the dark.” Jeremiah will face dark moments in his life. In today’s study, Jeremiah will be in a situation that could be very intimidating and frightening to anyone. During these situations we have to recall what GOD told us and rest in the security of HIS sovereignty.

Keep in mind GOD’S message to Jeremiah, “speak exactly what I tell you.” In other words, do not try to make MY message sound any other way than what I have told you. Do not water it down. Why? GOD has a plan and a purpose. HE wants us to be consistent with what we say in HIS behalf. During tense moments, when we are under pressure, we do not want to step outside GOD’S protection by being disobedient and watering down GOD’S message.

Remember Moses? GOD told Moses to speak to the rock for water to come forth but Moses struck the rock. Water came forth but not as GOD had commanded Moses to act. Result, Moses did not get to enter the Promised Land. GOD requires complete obedience to what HE tells us.
Even JESUS said, “I do nothing on MY on but only what THE FATHER shows/tells ME.”

John 5:19-20:
19 Then Jesus replied, “• I assure you: The Son is not able to do anything on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father[6] Lit whatever that One does, the Son also does these things in the same way. 20 For the Father loves the Son and shows Him everything He is doing, and He will show Him greater works than these so that you will be amazed.

So when GOD calls you for an assignment, pay attention to what GOD tells you and confirms to you through HIS WORD.

Let’s examine the interaction of GOD and Jeremiah.

Let’s read Jeremiah 26:1-7: Jeremiah’s Speech at the Temple
1 At the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim[1] 2 Kg 23:34—24:6; 2 Ch 36:4–8 son of Josiah, king of Judah, this word came from the Lord: 2 “This is what the Lord says: Stand in the courtyard of the Lord’s temple and speak all the words I have commanded you to speak to all Judah’s cities that are coming to worship there. Do not hold back a word.[2] Dt 4:2; Ec 3:14 3 Perhaps they will listen and return—each from his evil way of life—so that I might relent[3] Ex 32:12,14; Am 7:3,6; Jnh 3:9–10 concerning the disaster that I plan to do to them because of the evil of their deeds. 4 You are to say to them: This is what the Lord says: If you do not listen to Me by living according to My law that I set before you 5 and by listening to the words of My servants the prophets I have been sending you time and time again,[4] Lit you, rising early and sending though you did not listen, 6 I will make this temple like Shiloh.[5] Jos 18:1,8–10; 21:2; 1 Sm 1:3 I will make this city an object of cursing for all the nations of the earth.”
Jeremiah Seized
7 The priests, the prophets, and all the people heard Jeremiah speaking these words in the temple of the Lord.

Verse 1 sets the time period of this event.

GODLY leadership of a country is critical for GOD’S care of a country. In the case of Judah the king, priests, prophets (except Jeremiah) and even the people are not serving GOD as GOD had instructed them through HIS prophets and laws.

Josiah was the king of Judah when Jeremiah was called by GOD to become a prophet. Josiah feared (revered) GOD but was killed in 609 B.C. during a battle. The Israelites made Josiah’s son Jehoahaz the king of Judah. Jehoahaz did not fear GOD, as his father but his reign only lasted three (3) months for he was deposed by Pharaoh Neco of Egypt who made Jehoahaz’s brother Jehoiakim king of Judiah in 609/608 B.C. Neither does Jehoiakim fear GOD, as his father. Jehoiakim did evil in GOD’S sight.

Nebuchadnezzar defeated Egypt at the battle of Carchemish in 605 B.C., and then marched through Judah and Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar made Jehoiakim his vassal for three (3) years.

At the beginning of the reign of king Jehoiakim “the word came from THE LORD” to Jeremiah. GOD tells Jeremiah exactly where to go to deliver HIS message, the courtyard of the temple. This is the outer court of the temple where worshipers gather to worship.

The people are coming to the temple so why is GOD not pleased with that? GOD told Jeremiah to go to the very place where if anyone would ever be inclined to hear and respond to HIS message, it would be the one’s going to the temple to worship.

Does this ring a bell for us today? Do we go to church simply to go through the motion of worship? Or do we go to church to have an encounter with the living dynamic loving creator of the universe, GOD through HIS ONLY SON JESUS?

GOD gives HIS message to Jeremiah. Jeremiah is to speak just exactly what GOD tells him at the spot GOD tells him. Worshipers from every city of Judah will be coming there to worship.
GOD’S hope is that the people or priests or prophets will respond to the message by repenting and GOD will not have to bring disaster upon them.

Preachers today have to deliver GOD’S message just as GOD wants it delivered but it is up to the people to respond to the message. GOD always leaves the choice to us as individuals and GOD speaks to us through THE HOLY SPIRIT and we likewise have a choice to respond.

Jeremiah delivers the exact message as GOD had instructed. Unless the people repent and obey the law GOD had given them through the prophets, GOD would destroy the temple and the Jerusalem. GOD told Jeremiah to compare the destruction to that of Shiloh.

Shiloh was a town in the territory of Ephraim about 30 miles north of Jerusalem. It was the location of the first tabernacle and the place where the prophet Samuel grew up. It was the central place of worship and where the “ark of the covenant” was kept until the Israelites sinned. GOD allowed the city to be destroyed and the ark taken, most likely by the Philistines about 1053 B.C., according to archaeological discoveries. Shiloh was a grim reminder of the consequences of sin.

This comparison infuriated the prophets, priests and the people who were listening to Jeremiah. How dare Jeremiah say such blasphemous words at the temple.

The people respond but not as GOD had hoped.

We are told the priests, prophets and people heard his message. It is good they heard the message, now they all have a decision to make. So how do they respond?

Let’s read Jeremiah 26:8-14
8 He finished the address the Lord had commanded him to deliver to all the people. Then the priests, the prophets, and all the people took hold of him, yelling, “You must surely die! 9 How dare you prophesy in the name of the Lord, ‘This temple will become like Shiloh and this city will become an uninhabited ruin’!” Then all the people assembled against Jeremiah at the Lord’s temple. 10 When the officials of Judah heard these things, they went up from the king’s palace to the Lord’s temple and sat at the entrance of the New Gate.[6] Some Hb mss, Syr, Tg, Vg add of the house [7] Jr 36:10; Ezk 46:1,3 11 Then the priests and prophets said to the officials and all the people, “This man deserves the death sentence because he has prophesied against this city, as you have heard with your own ears.”
Jeremiah’s Defense
12 Then Jeremiah said to all the officials and the people, “The Lord sent me to prophesy all the words that you have heard against this temple and city. 13 So now, correct your ways and deeds[8] Jr 7:3–5; 18:11; 26:13 and obey the voice of the Lord your God so that He might relent concerning the disaster that He warned about. 14 As for me, here I am in your hands; do to me what you think is good and right.

The priests, prophets and people react as a mob. They shout at Jeremiah and tell him he must die for making such horrible statements. They know better, GOD would never destroy HIS temple or HIS city.

Still today, we place our security in artifacts and shrines rather than placing our faith in the living GOD WHO indwells all who have CHRIST in them because of rebirth. The priests, prophets and people all thought because they had made and looked upon the temple and the city as holy, GOD would never destroy it. They failed to see that obeying GOD is what pleases GOD. It is not how holy we think something is that pleases GOD. Sometimes we use the cross or the church as good luck charms thinking GOD will protect us if we wear a cross or run to the church in danger.

It is interesting that the government officials were not at the temple to hear Jeremiah’s first message. But they heard what was going on at the temple and came to the temple. Guess what? They needed to hear GOD’S message as well. The outburst of the priests, prophets and people was a way to get the government officials to the temple to hear the message.

So Jeremiah repeats the message of THE LORD. Now through these circumstances GOD has arranged the spiritual leaders, government leaders and the people representing the area surrounding Jerusalem all to hear GOD’S message.

Notice how GOD works. HE gets the decision makers together to give them an opportunity to make the right decision to repent. They all listen, some for the second time.

What do you think is going through Jeremiah’s mind? If it were me I would be concerned. It is a potentially dark time for Jeremiah because the people have shouted, “You must die!” This is when Jeremiah and any of us would have to remember what GOD had told us about what HE would do for us during such times. Jeremiah had to remember in the dark what he had learned in he light.

I would roll over in my mind, “Did I give the message just like GOD told me? I am sure I did. I did not leave out a single word HE told me to say. Okay. I can rest in THE LORD because HE told me HE would deliver me.”

So the prophet Jeremiah says to them, I have spoken as GOD has instructed me, now do with me what ever is right. WOW! What confidence in GOD. He said it with calm assurance that GOD was in control not the mob or the government officials. He remembered he was not to be intimidated by powerful people or anyone.

Let’s read Jeremiah 26:15-16:

15 But know for certain that if you put me to death, you will bring innocent blood[9] Jr 22:17; Dt 19:10; 2 Kg 24:4 on yourselves, on this city, and on its residents, for it is certain the Lord has sent me to speak all these things directly to you.”
Jeremiah Released
16 Then the officials and all the people told the priests and prophets, “This man doesn’t deserve the death sentence, for he has spoken to us in the name of the Lord our God!”

Jeremiah speaks with confidence because he knows he has spoken exactly what THE LORD has asked him to speak. He reminds them that if they kill him they will be shedding innocent blood. The Jews did not want to shed innocent blood because they believe shedding innocent blood would bring the punishment of GOD upon them and their city. Those with authority to make the decision of life or death for Jeremiah decided that Jeremiah had spoken the truth.

Did they finally understand what GOD was trying to tell them? Or was this a ploy on their part to spare Jeremiah’s life in hopes that GOD would not carry out HIS plan to reduce the temple and the city to rubble, like Shiloh? We know the rest of the story, they did not obey GOD and GOD did what HE said HE would do unless they repented.

GOD places HIS people in key positions to obey HIM and to speak when prompted. We must make sure nothing, such as sin or indifference (which is sin) blocks us from hearing HIS voice and responding as HE prompts us.

The religious leaders of Jeremiah’s day could not see or hear the message of GOD because they had fallen away from GOD.

This is only one of many lives that could be used to illustrate the price GOD’S servants have to pay when serving HIM. The movie that has just been released, “The Point of the Spear” is another example of the price paid for serving CHRIST.

The key is, GOD is in control and is sovereign. We must trust HIM with the outcome of a call HE gives to us. I am convinced that those who have given their lives either in death or to serve CHRIST, reap a reward in heaven that our minds cannot even begin to comprehend.

This world is not our home; we are but weary travelers passing through.

Serving on Purpose - Starting Now - Jeremiah 1:1-19 - Fenruary 5, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Starting Now – February 5, 2006

This lesson begins a new series of study in the book of Jeremiah.

The study series is entitled “Serving on Purpose.”

February 5 – Starting Now – Jeremiah 1:1-19 – Responding to GOD’S call to serve HIM

February 12 – Paying a Price to Serve GOD – Am I willing to pay a price to serve GOD?

February 19 – Dealing with Doubt – What should I do when my service to GOD is clouded with doubt?

February 26 – Doing My Part – What is my part in GOD’S plan?

What do we know about the Prophet Jeremiah, who wrote the Book of Jeremiah?

He was born and lived in Anathoth (AN uh thoth), which is about 3 miles from Jerusalem or about an hours walk to Jerusalem. Anathoth is a village and a number of priests lived there. To our knowledge Jeremiah never served as a priest but called by GOD to be a prophet. GOD called Jeremiah for ministry in 626 B.C. during the 13th year of the rule of King Josiah. Jeremiah’s ministry would last for 40 years, which would span the reigns of 5 Judean kings ending in 586 B.C. the time the Israelites went into exile to Babylon (Iraq). Jeremiah likely died in Egypt after a group of Judeans fled to Egypt after the destruction of Jerusalem.

About the time GOD called Jeremiah to ministry; the Assyrian Empire was in a decline. Nebuchadnezzar was king of the Babylonian Empire in 602 B.C. and GOD used Babylon to defeat Judah and Jerusalem. GOD used Jeremiah to warn Israel that Babylon would judge them but the Israelites ignored his warnings.
This is an exciting study. This lesson shows how GOD uses HIS servants to carry out HIS will and purpose. We see in Jeremiah that often we as humans feel unworthy to serve GOD. We use a variety of excuses not to be obedient to GOD. We think the success of a call from GOD depends upon our power and ability. Our part is to be available and willing to be obedient to what GOD calls us to do. Then respond to what HE asks us to do next, which could be some preparation and watch HIM work in mighty ways to bring it about.

How would you like to have such an intimate loving relationship with GOD that HE comes to you and speaks? Guess what? That is exactly the relationship GOD wants to have with all HIS children. So why do we resist? Usually because we are afraid of what GOD might ask us to do or we feel unworthy.

Many of us feel unworthy even though we are Christians and know we belong to GOD through CHRIST. We remember our past life and the times we may have failed to be obedient to GOD.

THE LORD revealed something to me this week which is precious. I glanced at the cover of a magazine and on its cover is an attractive young lady. I thought to myself they have done a great job airbrushing and hiding every blemish and flaw on this lady. I could not spot the first imperfection. I thought, “I wonder if I saw her in person would I recognize her with her imperfections.” Then the thought came to me like a bolt, as a Christian, GOD sees us perfect without spot, blemish or wrinkle because we have been cleansed and made perfect by the blood of HIS ONLY SON, JESUS.

In our study we have the privilege to see much of Jeremiah’s walk with GOD. We are still walking.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1: 1-10:
Chapter 1
1 The words of Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah, one of the priests living in Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. 2 The word of the Lord came to him in the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon, king of Judah. 3 It also came throughout the days of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, king of Judah, until the fifth month of the eleventh year of Zedekiah son of Josiah, king of Judah, when the people of Jerusalem went into exile.
The Call of Jeremiah
4 The word of the Lord came to me: 5 I chose you before I formed you in the womb;[1] Ps 139:13–16 I set you apart before you were born. I appointed you a prophet to the nations. 6 But I protested, “Oh no, Lord God! Look, I don’t know how to speak[2] Ex 4:10 since I am [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a youth.” 7 Then the Lord said to me: Do not say: I am [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you.[3] Dt 18:18 8 Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. [This is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration. 9 Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth,[4] Isa 6:7 and told me: Look, I have filled your mouth with My words.[5] Isa 51:16 10 See, today I have set you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and demolish, to build and plant.[6] Jr 12:14–17; 19:7; 24:6

Verses 1-3 help set the time period of Jeremiah’s ministry.

Then beginning with verse 4, “The word of THE LORD came to me”. Has GOD ever spoken to you? HE spoke directly to Jeremiah as we read in verse 5. So what do we learn when GOD speaks to Jeremiah?

GOD tells Jeremiah before he was formed in his mother’s womb, “I chose you and set you apart to serve ME as a prophet”. WOW! This is so neat. We might think, “Jeremiah was special. I wish GOD would tell me that HE had chosen me.”
Well guess what? HE did! Notice verse 4.

Remember Ephesians 1:3-6:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

Just like Jeremiah, we who are in CHRIST have been chosen, “Before I created the world I KNEW YOU”. GOD knew when, where, to whom we would be born. GOD has chosen each of us for a purpose. Most important HE chose each of us to accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR and LORD. Although chosen, we still have the right to choose. After we have chosen CHRIST for salvation, we still have the right to choose whether to obey GOD when HE calls us to serve HIM.

Jeremiah tries to say he is not qualified because he is too young. But GOD convinced HIM otherwise. Jeremiah makes the right decision to serve GOD as a prophet.

In Hebrew, the word prophet means, “one who is called to speak by inspiration.” GOD called Jeremiah to speak for HIM. Jeremiah is GOD’S representative to the Israelites. GOD calls each Christian to be HIS representatives to others around us each day. We are to be GOD’S Ambassadors.

In verse 6 we see Jeremiah’s response, “I am only a youth!” which means he is likely between 16 and 25 years old. We must keep in mind that age, experience, how we speak, social status, health, physical condition, material circumstances or education is immaterial to GOD when HE calls us to work for HIM. It is GOD WHO equips and it is GOD WHO is working through us. We are proclaiming HIS message or carrying out HIS plan, not ours.
A call from GOD may mean we will have to prepare through study or special training to be equipped to serve HIM. GOD will guide those called as to what they need to do to prepare for the call.

GOD told Jeremiah not to let his youth get in his way or cause him to hesitate in his service for HIM. Also, he is not to be intimidated or think he cannot do what GOD has called him to do because GOD is his strength. GOD told Jeremiah not to fear anyone because HE would be with him to deliver him. (Verse 8)

When GOD calls us for a purpose, HE tells us what HIS role will be in the call. HE equips but we have to respond. It will not be easy but HE will be right there with us in every situation as along as our hearts and minds are set upon HIM. We must remain in the protection of HIS will and purpose. Doubt undermines confidence in GOD’S ability.

Then in verse 9, GOD confirms HIS assurance to Jeremiah by touching his mouth and filling his mouth with HIS words.

In verse 10, GOD gives Jeremiah HIS mission, “I have set or appointed you to present MY message of destruction and rebuilding to nations and kingdoms.”

In our next scripture, GOD gives Jeremiah two (2) visions.

Jeremiah 1:11-16:
Two Visions
11 Then the word of the Lord came to me, asking, “What do you see, Jeremiah?”[7] Am 7:8; 8:2; Zch 4:2; 5:2 I replied, “I see a branch of an almond tree.” 12 The Lord said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I watch over My word to accomplish it.” 13 Again the word of the Lord came to me inquiring, “What do you see?” And I replied, “I see a boiling pot, its mouth tilted from the north [to the south]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .” 14 Then the Lord said to me, “Disaster will be poured out[8] LXX reads will boil from the north on all who live in the land. 15 Indeed, I am about to summon all the clans and kingdoms of the north.” [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration. They will come, and each [king]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. will set up his throne at the entrance to Jerusalem’s gates. They will attack all her surrounding walls and all the other cities of Judah. 16 “I will pronounce My judgments against them for all the evil they did when they abandoned Me to burn incense to other gods and to worship the works of their own hands.[9]

GOD continues HIS instructions to Jeremiah.

“What do you see?” “I see a branch of an almond tree.”

GOD often uses the familiar to teach us or confirm HIS message to us. In Jeremiah’s encounter with GOD, GOD uses an almond branch. Anathoth, where Jeremiah was born and raised, was and is today the center for growing almonds. Jeremiah knew all about the almond tree and its branches.

It is interesting that the word “almond” means watching. The almond tree was called the “awake” tree, because its early blooms signal the awaking of nature and spring. The almond tree blooms could appear as early as the month of January. When the almond tree branches bloomed, they knew spring was on its way.

GOD confirms Jeremiah has seen correctly. Often GOD will test us to make sure we are paying attention to HIM. Then GOD says “for I watch over MY word to accomplish it.” Meaning, Jeremiah just as you watch the almond tree for the coming of spring, you can know with assurance I will fulfill what I am telling you. So go with confidence with MY message to the nations and kings.

GOD, in essence, says, now Jeremiah since I know I have your attention and you are seeing what I want you to see, here is MY message through another vision.

GOD asks Jeremiah, “What do you see?” Jeremiah responds in verse 13 and GOD tells Jeremiah the meaning of what he is seeing in verses 14-16.

Verse 16 is the reason GOD is bringing judgment on the Israelites.

Nothing gets GOD more than for us to know about HIM and then try to find HIM through some man-made worship. The Israelites had cut down trees, chiseled out a figure, and decorated the figure with silver and gold. Then they bowed down to worship the figure as a god. They moved the figure from place to place. Of course they had to carry it because it could not walk.

GOD told Jeremiah that the enemy would surround Jerusalem and conquer it. GOD revealed to me in preparing this lesson that we, as a Christian, are just like the city of Jerusalem. We are surrounded by an enemy, Satan. We have CHRIST in us to protect us from the enemy but if we compromise our life through sin we make ourselves vulnerable to attack and subject to defeat. We can be led captive by the enemy until we repent and seek GOD’S forgiveness. GOD restores and rebuilds us just as HE told Jeremiah HE would do for the Israelites.

Babylon proved to be the nation GOD used to bring disaster upon Judah. Babylon is Iraq. It is interesting that region still threatens Israel today.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:17-19:

Jr 7:17–20; 44:3–6; Dt 29:25–27 17 “Now, get ready. Stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not be intimidated by them or I will cause you to cower before them.[10] Jr 10:2 18 Today, I am the One who has made you a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the population. 19 They will fight against you but never prevail over you, since I am with you to rescue you.” [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord’s declaration.

Okay Jeremiah, it is time to get busy. Tell them everything I have told you. Do not hold anything back but tell them everything.

Sometimes we feel intimated or bashful to tell others about JESUS. We are to present GOD’S message to others just like GOD wants it to be presented and to hold nothing back. Do not be intimidated by anyone regardless of their position in life. When GOD tells us to go, HE goes with us. HE is our strength and our confidence.

GOD makes it very clear to Jeremiah, if you are intimidated, I will cause you to cringe in fear. Jeremiah keep in mind I AM THE ONE WHO keeps you and do not let your flesh let you think otherwise. Verse 18 tells us that Jeremiah will encounter some powerful people during his ministry. GOD recognizes that such people can be intimidating to us. But Jeremiah, remember this is not about your strength but it is about ME and MY strength. It is about the message I want you to deliver on MY behalf, to warn MY people. I already know how they will respond but they need to have an opportunity to repent.

We as a Christian are fortified by GOD through the indwelling of THE HOLY SPIRIT, made possible through what CHRIST has done for us on THE CROSS. The enemy still seeks to destroy us but GOD tells us, “Greater is HE that is in us than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4:4:

4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One (JESUS) who is in you is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world.

Jeremiah was in the protection of GOD because he was obeying GOD. When GOD calls us, we too are in HIS care and protection because of our obedience to HIS call.

This does not mean we will always have smooth sailing when serving our LORD but it does mean we will arrive at a safe harbor.

Has GOD called you? How we respond to HIS call depends upon what we believe about GOD. What we believe about GOD depends upon the relationship we have with GOD.

GOD’S word is like bread crumbs that lead us to an encounter with HIM.