Jeremiah 27:18

If they are indeed prophets and the word of the LORD is with them, let them now plead with the LORD of Hosts that the articles remaining in the house of the LORD, in the palace of the king of Judah, and in Jerusalem, not be taken to Babylon.

Study Bible

But if they are prophets
This phrase challenges the authenticity of those claiming to be prophets. In Hebrew, the word for "prophets" is "נְבִיאִים" (nevi'im), which refers to those who are divinely inspired to speak God's truth. Jeremiah is questioning whether these individuals truly have a divine calling or if they are false prophets. This reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where true prophets are often distinguished by their adherence to God's word and their willingness to speak difficult truths, even when unpopular.

and if the word of the LORD is with them
The "word of the LORD" is a powerful concept in the Hebrew Bible, often denoting divine revelation or instruction. The Hebrew term "דְּבַר־יְהוָה" (davar-YHWH) implies a message that carries the authority and power of God Himself. Jeremiah is emphasizing that true prophets will have God's word genuinely with them, guiding their messages and actions. This phrase underscores the importance of discernment in identifying true divine communication, a theme that resonates throughout scripture.

let them now plead with the LORD of Hosts
"Plead" here is translated from the Hebrew "יִפְגְּעוּ־נָא" (yifge'u-na), which conveys a sense of intercession or earnest prayer. The "LORD of Hosts" (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת, YHWH Tzevaot) is a title that emphasizes God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. Jeremiah is urging these supposed prophets to intercede with God, highlighting the role of a prophet as an intermediary between God and the people. This call to prayer reflects the biblical principle that true spiritual leaders should seek God's intervention and guidance.

that the articles remaining in the house of the LORD
The "articles" refer to the sacred objects used in temple worship, which hold significant religious and cultural value. In the historical context, these items symbolize the presence and worship of God among His people. The "house of the LORD" is the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. Jeremiah's concern for these articles underscores the impending threat of Babylonian conquest and the potential loss of religious heritage.

and in the palace of the king of Judah
The palace represents the political and royal authority of Judah. By mentioning both the temple and the palace, Jeremiah highlights the comprehensive threat posed by Babylon, affecting both religious and political spheres. This dual focus reflects the interconnectedness of faith and governance in ancient Israelite society, where the king was expected to uphold God's covenant.

and in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the capital city, is central to Jewish identity and faith. It is the city where God chose to place His name and where the temple stood. The mention of Jerusalem signifies the broader threat to the entire nation and its spiritual heart. Historically, Jerusalem's fall would symbolize a profound crisis of faith and identity for the people of Judah.

will not be taken to Babylon
Babylon represents the looming threat of exile and judgment. The historical context is the Babylonian captivity, a period of profound trial and transformation for the Jewish people. Jeremiah's warning serves as a call to repentance and reliance on God, emphasizing that only through divine intervention can the impending disaster be averted. This phrase encapsulates the tension between divine judgment and mercy, a central theme in Jeremiah's prophetic ministry.

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. Prophets
Refers to those who claimed to speak on behalf of God during Jeremiah's time, some of whom were false prophets.

3. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies.

4. The House of the LORD
The temple in Jerusalem, central to Jewish worship and the presence of God.

5. Babylon
A powerful empire that conquered Judah and took many of its people and treasures into exile.

Teaching Points

Discernment of True Prophets
Believers must seek discernment to identify true messages from God, distinguishing them from false teachings.

The Power of Intercessory Prayer
Jeremiah challenges the prophets to plead with God, highlighting the importance and power of intercessory prayer in seeking God's intervention.

The Sovereignty of God
The title "LORD of Hosts" reminds us of God's ultimate authority and control over all events, encouraging trust in His plans.

The Importance of Genuine Worship
The temple's significance underscores the need for sincere worship and reverence for God's presence in our lives.

Preparation for Trials
Just as Jeremiah warned of impending exile, believers are called to prepare spiritually for trials, trusting in God's faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern between true and false teachings in today's world, and what role does Scripture play in this process?

2. In what ways can we engage in intercessory prayer for our communities and nations, following Jeremiah's example?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty provide comfort and guidance during challenging times?

4. What steps can we take to ensure our worship is genuine and centered on God's presence in our lives?

5. How can we prepare spiritually for trials and challenges, drawing from the lessons in Jeremiah and other Scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8
Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple, emphasizing the importance of the temple as a place of God's presence and the need for genuine prayer.

Isaiah 44
Discusses the role of true prophets and the futility of false idols, highlighting the importance of discerning true messages from God.

Daniel 1
Describes the Babylonian exile and the taking of articles from the temple, providing historical context to Jeremiah's warning.

2 Chronicles 36
Chronicles the fall of Jerusalem and the temple's destruction, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecies.

Matthew 24
Jesus warns of future destruction and the importance of being spiritually prepared, echoing the themes of warning and preparation found in Jeremiah.