Jeremiah 32:20

You performed signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, and You do so to this very day, both in Israel and among all mankind. And You have made a name for Yourself, as is the case to this day.

Study Bible

You performed signs and wonders
The phrase "signs and wonders" refers to miraculous events that demonstrate God's power and authority. In Hebrew, the word for "signs" is "othot" and "wonders" is "mophethim." These terms are often used together in the Old Testament to describe the miraculous acts God performed, particularly during the Exodus. The signs and wonders in Egypt were not just displays of power but were acts of divine intervention that revealed God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people. They served as a testament to His ability to deliver and protect His people, reinforcing the belief in His omnipotence and His active role in human history.

in the land of Egypt
Egypt holds significant historical and theological importance in the Bible. It was the place of Israel's bondage and the setting for God's dramatic deliverance of His people. The land of Egypt symbolizes oppression and idolatry, contrasting with the freedom and worship of the one true God. The events in Egypt, particularly the plagues and the parting of the Red Sea, are foundational to the Jewish faith and are frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness.

and to this day in Israel
The phrase "to this day" emphasizes the enduring impact of God's actions. The miracles performed in Egypt were not just historical events but had lasting significance for the nation of Israel. They were a continual reminder of God's covenant and His ongoing relationship with His people. The phrase also suggests that God's miraculous works were not confined to the past but continued to be evident in the life of Israel, reinforcing the idea of a living and active God who is involved in the affairs of His people.

and among all mankind
This phrase expands the scope of God's miraculous works beyond Israel to include all humanity. It underscores the universal nature of God's power and His concern for all people. The miracles in Egypt were not only a demonstration of God's power to Israel but also a witness to the surrounding nations. This reflects the biblical theme that God's actions are intended to reveal His glory to the entire world, inviting all people to recognize and worship Him.

and You have made a name for Yourself
In biblical terms, making a "name" for oneself refers to establishing a reputation or renown. God's actions in Egypt and throughout history have established His name as one of power, faithfulness, and holiness. This phrase highlights the idea that God's works are not only for the benefit of His people but also for the revelation of His character to the world. His name represents His identity and His attributes, and through His mighty acts, He has made His name known among the nations.

as is the case today
This concluding phrase brings the message of the verse into the present, affirming that the reputation and renown of God established through His past actions continue to be recognized and celebrated. It serves as a reminder that God's faithfulness and power are not just historical truths but are relevant and evident in the present day. This continuity of God's presence and action encourages believers to trust in His unchanging nature and His ongoing involvement in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Egypt
A significant location in biblical history, where God performed mighty acts to deliver the Israelites from slavery, showcasing His power and sovereignty.

3. Israel
The chosen people of God, who witnessed His signs and wonders throughout their history, from the Exodus to the present context of Jeremiah's prophecy.

4. Signs and Wonders
Miraculous acts performed by God to demonstrate His power and authority, often serving as a testament to His covenant with His people.

5. Mankind
Refers to all humanity, indicating that God's actions and His reputation extend beyond Israel to the entire world.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
God's ability to perform signs and wonders demonstrates His ultimate authority over creation and history. Believers can trust in His power to intervene in their lives.

God's Faithfulness to His Covenant
The signs and wonders serve as reminders of God's faithfulness to His promises. Christians are encouraged to remember God's past faithfulness as assurance for the future.

God's Global Reputation
God's actions are not limited to Israel but are known among all mankind. This calls believers to witness to God's greatness and share His works with others.

The Continuity of God's Work
The verse highlights that God continues to perform wonders "as is the case today." Believers should remain attentive to God's ongoing work in the world and in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the signs and wonders performed by God in Egypt relate to His character and attributes?

2. In what ways can we see God's signs and wonders in our lives today, and how should we respond to them?

3. How does understanding God's past faithfulness help us trust Him in our current circumstances?

4. What role do signs and wonders play in the New Testament, and how do they connect to the works of Jesus?

5. How can we, as believers, make God's name known among all mankind, as mentioned in Jeremiah 32:20?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-12
The plagues in Egypt are a direct reference to the "signs and wonders" mentioned in Jeremiah 32:20, illustrating God's power in delivering His people.

Deuteronomy 4:34
This verse speaks of God taking a nation for Himself through trials, signs, and wonders, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and deliverance.

Psalm 105:27-36
A recounting of the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing God's mighty works and His faithfulness to His covenant.

Acts 2:22
Peter speaks of Jesus being accredited by God through miracles, signs, and wonders, drawing a parallel to God's historical acts of power.