Jeremiah 42:13

But if you say, 'We will not stay in this land,' and you thus disobey the voice of the LORD your God,

Study Bible

But if you say
This phrase introduces a conditional statement, setting the stage for a choice that the people of Judah must make. The Hebrew word for "if" (אִם, 'im) often introduces a hypothetical situation, emphasizing the potential for human decision and the consequences that follow. This reflects the biblical theme of free will and the responsibility that comes with it. The phrase "you say" indicates a verbal declaration, highlighting the importance of spoken words in covenant relationships with God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, words were powerful and binding, often seen as a reflection of one's heart and intentions.

We will not stay in this land
The decision "not to stay" in the land of Judah is significant. The Hebrew verb for "stay" (יָשַׁב, yashav) means to dwell or settle, implying a sense of permanence and commitment. Historically, the land of Judah was the promised land, a gift from God to the Israelites, symbolizing His covenant and faithfulness. Choosing not to stay reflects a rejection of God's provision and protection. This decision is rooted in fear and distrust, as the people were anxious about the Babylonian threat. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' recurring struggle with faith and obedience throughout their history.

disobeying the voice of the LORD your God
"Disobeying" here is a translation of the Hebrew verb (מָרָה, marah), which means to rebel or resist authority. This rebellion is not just against a command but against "the voice of the LORD your God," emphasizing the personal and relational aspect of God's communication with His people. The "voice" (קוֹל, qol) of the LORD is a recurring motif in Scripture, representing divine guidance and revelation. Historically, the Israelites were expected to heed God's voice as a sign of their covenant relationship. Disobedience, therefore, is not merely a legal infraction but a breach of trust and relationship with God.

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. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who remained in Judah after the Babylonian conquest and exile.

3. Egypt
The land to which the remnant considered fleeing, seeking safety from Babylonian rule.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through Jeremiah to guide His people.

5. Babylonian Conquest
The historical context of this passage, where Babylon had conquered Judah, leading to the exile of many Israelites.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Voice
The importance of listening to and obeying God's instructions, even when they seem counterintuitive or difficult.

Trust in God's Plan
Encourages believers to trust in God's plan and timing, rather than seeking their own solutions out of fear or impatience.

Consequences of Disobedience
Highlights the potential negative consequences of disobedience, as seen in the historical context of Israel's exile.

Seeking God's Guidance
Stresses the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making, especially in times of uncertainty or crisis.

Avoiding the Temptation of Worldly Security
Warns against the temptation to seek security in worldly powers or solutions, such as Egypt, instead of relying on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the reasons the remnant of Judah considered fleeing to Egypt, and how can this reflect our own temptations to seek worldly solutions?

2. How does Jeremiah 42:13 challenge us to evaluate our own obedience to God's voice in our daily lives?

3. In what ways can we apply the lessons of trust and obedience from this passage to current situations where we face uncertainty?

4. How do the warnings in Deuteronomy 28 and Isaiah 30:1-3 reinforce the message of Jeremiah 42:13?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision similar to the remnant's. How did you seek God's guidance, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences of the remnant's potential disobedience.

Isaiah 30:1-3
This passage warns against seeking refuge in Egypt, paralleling the remnant's temptation to flee there instead of trusting God.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord rather than leaning on one's own understanding, relevant to the remnant's decision-making process.

Hebrews 3:7-19
Discusses the importance of listening to God's voice and the dangers of hardening one's heart, similar to the remnant's situation.