Jeremiah 27:5

By My great power and outstretched arm, I made the earth and the men and beasts on the face of it, and I give it to whom I please.

Study Bible

By My great power
This phrase emphasizes the omnipotence of God, underscoring His supreme authority and ability to accomplish His will. The Hebrew word for "power" here is "koach," which denotes strength, force, and ability. In the context of Jeremiah, this power is not just physical might but also the divine authority to govern the universe. Historically, this reflects the understanding of God as the ultimate ruler, whose power surpasses all earthly kings and empires. It serves as a reminder to the Israelites and to us today that God's power is unmatched and is the source of all creation and authority.

and outstretched arm
The imagery of an "outstretched arm" is a recurring motif in the Hebrew Bible, symbolizing God's active intervention in the world. The Hebrew term "zeroa" conveys strength and might, often used in contexts where God delivers or rescues His people. This phrase evokes the Exodus narrative, where God delivered Israel from Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm (Deuteronomy 5:15). It reassures believers of God's willingness and ability to act on behalf of His people, demonstrating His personal involvement in the affairs of the world.

I made the earth
This declaration asserts God's role as the Creator. The Hebrew verb "asah" means to make or fashion, indicating intentionality and purpose in creation. This statement is foundational to the biblical worldview, affirming that the earth and everything in it are the work of God's hands. It challenges any notion of random existence, instead presenting a universe crafted with divine intention. For the original audience, this was a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over all creation, reinforcing their trust in His plans and purposes.

and the men and beasts on the face of the earth
Here, the scope of God's creation is expanded to include all living beings. The Hebrew words "adam" (men) and "behemah" (beasts) encompass humanity and the animal kingdom, highlighting the diversity and complexity of life that God has brought into existence. This phrase underscores the interconnectedness of all creation under God's dominion. It serves as a reminder of humanity's place within the created order, entrusted with stewardship but ultimately subject to the Creator's authority.

and I give it to whom I please
This statement reflects God's sovereign right to distribute the earth and its resources according to His will. The Hebrew verb "natan" means to give or bestow, indicating a deliberate act of granting authority or possession. This underscores the biblical principle that all authority and ownership are derived from God. Historically, this was a message to the nations surrounding Israel, asserting that their power was not inherent but granted by God. For believers, it is a call to humility and recognition of God's ultimate control over the affairs of the world, encouraging trust in His perfect wisdom and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment and exile due to its disobedience to God.

3. Babylonian Exile
The event where the people of Judah were taken captive by the Babylonians, a central theme in Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, whom God used as an instrument of judgment against Judah and other nations.

5. God's Sovereignty
The overarching theme of this passage, emphasizing God's control over creation and His authority to give dominion to whomever He chooses.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Creation
Recognize that God, as the Creator, has ultimate authority over all creation. This understanding should lead to a posture of humility and trust in His plans.

Divine Authority and Human Governance
Acknowledge that God appoints leaders and authorities according to His purposes. This should encourage believers to pray for leaders and trust God's overarching plan, even when earthly governance seems flawed.

Trust in God's Plan
In times of uncertainty or difficulty, remember that God is in control. His "great power and outstretched arm" are at work, even when circumstances are challenging.

Stewardship of Creation
As God has created and given the earth to humanity, believers are called to be good stewards of the environment and resources entrusted to them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in creation affect your view of current world events and leadership?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate trust in God's plan, especially when facing personal challenges or uncertainties?

3. How can the truth of God's authority over creation inspire you to be a better steward of the environment and resources?

4. Reflect on a time when you struggled with the actions of a leader or government. How can Jeremiah 27:5 guide your response and attitude?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Jeremiah 27:5 connect with the message of hope and restoration found later in Jeremiah's prophecies?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:1
This verse connects to the creation theme in Jeremiah 27:5, highlighting God's power in creating the heavens and the earth.

Daniel 4:17
This passage reinforces the idea of God's sovereignty over the kingdoms of men, similar to the message in Jeremiah 27:5.

Psalm 24:1
This verse echoes the theme of God's ownership of the earth and everything in it, aligning with the message of Jeremiah 27:5.