Jeremiah 24:6

I will keep My eyes on them for good and will return them to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them.

Study Bible

I will keep My eyes on them for good
This phrase reflects God's attentive and benevolent oversight. The Hebrew word for "keep" is "שָׁקַד" (shaqad), which conveys a sense of watching over with diligence and care. This is not a passive observation but an active, protective vigilance. Historically, this assurance was given to the exiles in Babylon, promising them that despite their displacement, God's watchful presence would ensure their welfare. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects the consistent biblical theme of God's providential care for His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 121:4, where God is described as one who neither slumbers nor sleeps.

and I will bring them back to this land
The promise of restoration is central to this phrase. The Hebrew verb "שׁוּב" (shuv) means to return or restore, indicating a reversal of fortune and a return to a former state of blessing. This promise was particularly poignant for the Israelites in exile, as it assured them of a future return to their homeland, a land flowing with milk and honey, as originally promised to their forefathers. This reflects God's faithfulness to His covenant and His ability to fulfill His promises despite apparent obstacles.

I will build them up and not tear them down
Here, the imagery of construction versus destruction is powerful. The Hebrew word for "build" is "בָּנָה" (banah), which suggests establishing something strong and enduring. Conversely, "tear down" comes from "נָתַץ" (natats), meaning to demolish or destroy. This promise of building up signifies God's intention to establish His people firmly, ensuring their growth and prosperity. Historically, this was a message of hope to the exiles, contrasting their current state of ruin with a future of stability and blessing. It echoes the broader biblical narrative of God as a restorer and rebuilder, as seen in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah.

I will plant them and not uproot them
The agricultural metaphor of planting and uprooting is rich with meaning. "Plant" in Hebrew is "נָטַע" (nata), which implies setting something in place to grow and flourish. "Uproot," from "נָתַשׁ" (natash), suggests removal and displacement. This promise assures the exiles of a permanent and secure future in their land, where they can thrive without fear of being displaced again. This reflects God's desire for His people to be fruitful and multiply, as originally commanded in Genesis. It also aligns with the prophetic vision of a restored Israel, deeply rooted in their covenant relationship with God, as seen in passages like Isaiah 60:21.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which faced destruction and exile due to its disobedience to God.

3. Babylonian Exile
The period when the people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon, a significant event in Jewish history that serves as the backdrop for this prophecy.

4. God
The sovereign Lord who promises restoration and care for His people despite their previous disobedience.

5. The Land
Refers to the Promised Land, which God had given to the Israelites, symbolizing His covenant and blessings.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Care
God watches over His people with a purpose for their good, even in times of discipline or exile.

Promise of Restoration
Despite past failures, God promises to restore and rebuild His people, offering hope and a future.

Spiritual Growth and Stability
Like a plant that is not uprooted, believers are called to grow in faith and remain steadfast in God's promises.

Covenant Faithfulness
God's commitment to His covenant is unwavering, and He desires His people to return to Him wholeheartedly.

Hope in Difficult Times
Even in challenging circumstances, believers can trust in God's plan for their ultimate good and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian Exile enhance our comprehension of God's promise in Jeremiah 24:6?

2. In what ways can we see God's watchful care in our own lives, similar to His promise to the people of Judah?

3. How does the imagery of being "planted and not uprooted" encourage us in our spiritual journey?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to align ourselves with God's promise of restoration and rebuilding in our lives?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God's covenant faithfulness in Jeremiah 24:6 to our relationships with others and our community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:3-5
This passage speaks of God's promise to restore His people and bring them back to their land, similar to the promise in Jeremiah 24:6.

Psalm 1:3
The imagery of being planted and not uprooted is echoed here, where the righteous are compared to a tree planted by streams of water.

Ezekiel 36:24-28
God promises to gather His people from the nations and bring them back to their own land, paralleling the restoration theme in Jeremiah.

2 Chronicles 7:14
The call for repentance and God's promise to heal the land connects with the idea of God watching over His people for their good.