Jeremiah 29:7

Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper."

Study Bible

Seek the prosperity
The Hebrew word for "seek" is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which implies a diligent pursuit or inquiry. In the context of Jeremiah 29:7, it suggests an active engagement and intentional effort to promote the well-being of the city. This is not a passive hope but a call to action. The word "prosperity" is translated from "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), which encompasses peace, welfare, and completeness. It is a holistic term that goes beyond mere economic success to include social harmony and spiritual well-being. Historically, the Israelites were in exile in Babylon, a place they did not choose and among people who were not their own. Yet, God instructs them to actively contribute to the city's welfare, indicating that His plans for them include being a blessing even in foreign lands.

of the city
The term "city" here refers specifically to Babylon, where the Israelites were exiled. Babylon was a significant city in ancient Mesopotamia, known for its grandeur and as a center of power and culture. For the Israelites, it represented a place of captivity and foreign rule. However, God's command to seek the city's prosperity underscores a divine purpose in their placement there. It challenges the Israelites to look beyond their immediate circumstances and see their role in God's broader plan. This instruction also serves as a reminder that God's people are called to be agents of change and blessing, regardless of their geographical or cultural context.

to which I have carried you into exile
The phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and purpose in the Israelites' situation. The Hebrew word for "carried" is "הִגְלֵיתִי" (higleiti), which means to lead or bring into exile. This was not a random act of displacement but a deliberate act of God. It serves as a reminder that even in difficult and seemingly adverse situations, God is in control and has a purpose for His people. The exile was a consequence of Israel's disobedience, yet it was also an opportunity for renewal and transformation. This perspective encourages believers to trust in God's plan, even when it leads them into unfamiliar or challenging environments.

Pray to the LORD
The Hebrew word for "pray" is "פָּלַל" (palal), which means to intercede or make supplication. Prayer is a powerful tool for believers, and here it is directed towards the welfare of the city. This instruction highlights the importance of intercessory prayer, not just for personal needs but for the community and even for those who may be seen as adversaries. It reflects a heart aligned with God's will, seeking His intervention and blessing upon the place where they reside. This call to prayer also reinforces the idea that spiritual engagement is crucial in effecting change and bringing about God's purposes.

on its behalf
This phrase indicates a selfless act of intercession. The Israelites are called to pray for the city of their exile, a place that represents their loss and suffering. Yet, God instructs them to look beyond their grievances and seek the city's welfare. This act of praying on behalf of others, especially those who may not share the same faith or values, is a profound expression of love and obedience to God's command. It challenges believers to adopt a broader perspective, recognizing that God's blessings are not limited to a specific group but are intended to flow through His people to the wider world.

for when it prospers, you too will prosper
The prosperity of the city is directly linked to the prosperity of the Israelites. This principle reflects the interconnectedness of communities and the idea that the well-being of one group can positively impact another. The Hebrew word for "prosper" is again "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the prosperity God desires. It is a reminder that God's blessings are not isolated but are meant to be shared and multiplied. This promise encourages believers to invest in the welfare of their communities, trusting that as they do so, they will also experience God's provision and peace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages to the people of Judah, including warnings of impending exile and messages of hope and restoration.

2. Babylon
The city and empire where the Israelites were exiled. It was a place of foreign culture and pagan practices, yet God instructed His people to seek its welfare.

3. Exiles
The people of Judah who were taken captive and relocated to Babylon. They were living in a foreign land under foreign rule, facing challenges to their faith and identity.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who remains sovereign and faithful, even when His people are in exile.

5. The City
Refers to Babylon, where the exiles were to seek its prosperity and pray for it, despite it being a place of captivity.

Teaching Points

Seek the Welfare of Your Community
As believers, we are called to actively contribute to the well-being of the places where we live, even if they are not our ultimate home.

Prayer as a Tool for Transformation
Prayer is a powerful means by which we can influence the spiritual and physical prosperity of our communities.

Prosperity Linked to Obedience
Our own well-being is often connected to our obedience to God's commands, including seeking the good of others.

Living Faithfully in Exile
Like the exiles in Babylon, Christians are called to live faithfully in a world that is not their ultimate home, influencing it for good.

God's Sovereignty in Difficult Circumstances
Trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He has a purpose even in challenging situations, such as living in a foreign land.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we practically seek the prosperity of our own communities today, and what specific actions can we take?

2. In what ways does praying for our community and its leaders align with the teachings of the New Testament?

3. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our interpretation of Jeremiah 29:7?

4. What are some modern-day "exiles" or situations where Christians might feel out of place, and how can Jeremiah 29:7 guide their response?

5. How does the concept of seeking the welfare of a city challenge or affirm your current perspective on engaging with secular society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Timothy 2:1-2
Encourages believers to pray for all people, including those in authority, which aligns with the call to pray for the city in which one resides.

Psalm 122:6-9
Speaks of praying for the peace and prosperity of Jerusalem, showing a biblical pattern of seeking the welfare of the place where God's people dwell.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching to love and pray for one's enemies, which parallels the instruction to pray for Babylon, a place of exile and oppression.