Jeremiah 16:14

Yet behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when they will no longer say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the Israelites up out of the land of Egypt.'

Study Bible

Yet behold
The phrase "Yet behold" serves as a divine announcement, a call to attention for something significant that is about to be revealed. In Hebrew, the word "behold" is often translated from "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is used to draw the listener's focus to an important message from God. This introduction sets the stage for a prophetic declaration, emphasizing the certainty and importance of what follows.

the days are coming
This phrase is a common prophetic expression in the Old Testament, indicating a future event that is part of God's divine plan. The Hebrew "הִנֵּה יָמִים בָּאִים" (hinneh yamim ba'im) suggests an imminent change or fulfillment of prophecy. It reassures the faithful that God's promises will come to pass, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" underscores the authority and sovereignty of God in delivering this message. In Hebrew, "נְאֻם יְהוָה" (ne'um YHWH) is a formal declaration, affirming that the words spoken are not of human origin but are divinely inspired. This assures the audience of the reliability and truth of the prophecy.

when it will no longer be said
This indicates a shift in the collective memory and testimony of the people. The phrase suggests a future time when the current expressions of faith and remembrance will be replaced by new ones. It implies a transformation in the way God's people will perceive and testify to His acts of deliverance.

‘As surely as the LORD lives
This oath formula, "חַי־יְהוָה" (chai-YHWH), is a solemn affirmation of God's existence and faithfulness. It is often used in the Old Testament to underscore the truthfulness of a statement. The phrase reflects the deep-rooted belief in God's eternal presence and active involvement in the lives of His people.

who brought the Israelites up out of the land of Egypt.’
This reference to the Exodus is a cornerstone of Israelite identity and faith, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people from bondage. The Hebrew "אֲשֶׁר הֶעֱלָה אֶת־בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מֵאֶרֶץ מִצְרָיִם" (asher he'elah et-b'nei Yisrael me'eretz Mitzrayim) recalls the foundational event of liberation, which is celebrated in Jewish tradition as a testament to God's covenantal love and might. The prophecy suggests that a new act of deliverance will surpass even this monumental event, pointing to a future redemption that will redefine the people's understanding of God's saving power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through Jeremiah, promising a future change in how His deliverance is remembered.

3. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt, a foundational event in their history.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved before God delivered them through Moses.

5. The Exodus
The pivotal event of deliverance from Egypt, which defined Israel's identity and relationship with God.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Deliverance
The prophecy in Jeremiah 16:14 highlights God's ongoing commitment to deliver His people, reminding us of His faithfulness throughout history.

A New Exodus
Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt, He promises a future deliverance that will redefine their understanding of His power and care.

Hope for the Future
This verse encourages believers to look forward to God's future acts of salvation, trusting that He will continue to work in powerful ways.

Redefining Identity
The shift from the Exodus to a new deliverance signifies a transformation in how God's people understand their identity and relationship with Him.

Living in Expectation
Believers are called to live with an expectation of God's future work, allowing His promises to shape their present faith and actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of a new deliverance in Jeremiah 16:14 challenge or encourage your understanding of God's faithfulness?

2. In what ways can the concept of a "new Exodus" apply to personal or communal experiences of deliverance today?

3. How does the anticipation of future acts of God influence your daily life and spiritual practices?

4. What are some modern "Egypts" from which you or your community seek deliverance, and how can this passage offer hope?

5. How can you actively participate in God's ongoing work of deliverance in the world around you, inspired by the promises in Jeremiah 16:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Describes the original Passover and the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, which Jeremiah references as a past act of God's salvation.

Jeremiah 23:7-8
Similar prophecy where God promises a new deliverance that will surpass the Exodus, emphasizing a future hope.

Isaiah 43:18-19
Encourages looking forward to new things God will do, rather than dwelling on past events.

Ezekiel 36:24-28
Speaks of God gathering His people from all nations, a future deliverance that echoes Jeremiah's prophecy.