Jeremiah 26:15

But know for certain that if you put me to death, you will bring innocent blood upon yourselves, upon this city, and upon its residents; for truly the LORD has sent me to speak all these words in your hearing."

Study Bible

But know for certain
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and seriousness of the message Jeremiah is delivering. The Hebrew root for "know" is יָדַע (yada), which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. Jeremiah is urging his audience to grasp the gravity of their potential actions. In a historical context, prophets often faced skepticism, and Jeremiah's insistence on certainty underscores the divine authority behind his words.

if you put me to death
Jeremiah is confronting the threat to his life head-on. The phrase reflects the real danger prophets faced when delivering unpopular messages. The Hebrew verb for "put to death" is מוּת (muth), which is a straightforward term for execution. This highlights the perilous position of a true prophet who must speak God's truth regardless of personal risk.

you will bring innocent blood on yourselves
"Innocent blood" refers to the guilt of shedding the blood of someone who is not deserving of death. The concept of "innocent blood" is significant in the Hebrew Bible, as it brings divine judgment upon those who commit such acts. Jeremiah is warning that his death would not be a mere political act but a moral and spiritual transgression with severe consequences.

and on this city and on its residents
Jeremiah extends the consequences of their actions beyond themselves to the entire city and its inhabitants. This reflects the communal nature of sin and judgment in the Old Testament, where the actions of individuals can impact the broader community. Historically, Jerusalem was the center of religious and political life, and its fate was often seen as intertwined with the spiritual state of its people.

For truly the LORD has sent me
Jeremiah reaffirms his divine commission with the word "truly," which in Hebrew is אָמֵן (amen), a term of affirmation and certainty. This declaration is crucial, as it distinguishes Jeremiah's message from false prophets. The authority of his words comes directly from the LORD, the covenant name of God, emphasizing the seriousness and authenticity of his mission.

to speak all these words in your hearing
The phrase "in your hearing" indicates that the message is meant to be received and understood by the audience. The Hebrew word for "speak" is דָּבַר (dabar), which often implies not just speaking but conveying a message with purpose and authority. Jeremiah's role as a prophet is to communicate God's words faithfully, ensuring that the people are fully aware of the divine message and its implications.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often facing opposition and persecution for his prophecies.

2. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's prophecies, often resistant to his messages, which called for repentance and warned of impending judgment.

3. The Priests and Prophets
Religious leaders who opposed Jeremiah, accusing him of blasphemy and seeking his death for prophesying against Jerusalem.

4. The City of Jerusalem
The central place of worship and governance for the people of Judah, often the subject of Jeremiah's warnings due to its people's unfaithfulness.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who sent Jeremiah to deliver His messages of warning and hope.

Teaching Points

The Cost of Speaking Truth
Jeremiah's willingness to face death for delivering God's message challenges us to consider the cost of standing for truth in our own lives.

The Consequences of Rejecting God's Word
The warning of bringing innocent blood upon themselves serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of rejecting God's messages and messengers.

God's Sovereignty in Sending Messengers
Recognizing that God sends His prophets underscores His active role in guiding and correcting His people, encouraging us to be attentive to His voice today.

The Importance of Repentance
Jeremiah's message was ultimately a call to repentance, reminding us of the need to turn from sin and seek God's forgiveness.

The Role of Courage in Faith
Jeremiah's courage in the face of opposition inspires us to be bold in our faith, trusting in God's protection and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's willingness to face death for God's message challenge your own commitment to speaking truth in difficult situations?

2. In what ways can we discern and respond to God's messages in our lives today, similar to how the people of Judah were called to respond to Jeremiah?

3. What are some modern examples of "innocent blood" being shed, and how can we, as Christians, work to prevent such injustices?

4. How does the opposition Jeremiah faced from religious leaders inform our understanding of potential challenges within the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt called to deliver a difficult message. How did you rely on God's strength and guidance, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 19:10
This verse discusses the shedding of innocent blood and the guilt it brings upon a land, echoing Jeremiah's warning about the consequences of killing him.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, highlighting the city's history of killing prophets, which connects to the opposition Jeremiah faced.

Acts 7:52
Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of betraying and murdering prophets, drawing a parallel to Jeremiah's situation.