Jeremiah 42:14

and if you say, 'No, but we will go to the land of Egypt and live there, where we will not see war or hear the sound of the ram's horn or hunger for bread,'

Study Bible

No, we will go to the land of Egypt
This phrase reflects a direct contradiction to God's guidance through the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew root for "Egypt" is "Mitzrayim," which historically and scripturally represents a place of bondage and reliance on human strength rather than divine provision. Egypt, in the biblical narrative, is often symbolic of a return to old ways and a lack of trust in God's promises. The Israelites' desire to return to Egypt signifies a spiritual regression and a lack of faith in God's ability to protect and provide for them in their own land.

where we will not see war
The desire to avoid war is understandable, yet it reveals a deeper issue of trust. The Hebrew word for "war" is "milchamah," which not only refers to physical battles but also spiritual struggles. The Israelites' wish to escape war by fleeing to Egypt shows a lack of faith in God's power to deliver them from their enemies. Historically, Egypt was seen as a powerful nation, but reliance on its strength rather than God's protection is a recurring theme of misplaced trust.

or hear the sound of the trumpet
The "sound of the trumpet" in Hebrew, "shofar," is often associated with calls to battle or significant religious events. It symbolizes alertness and readiness for action. By seeking to avoid the sound of the trumpet, the Israelites are expressing a desire to escape the responsibilities and challenges that come with being God's chosen people. This avoidance reflects a spiritual lethargy and a preference for comfort over obedience.

or hunger for bread
The fear of "hunger for bread" highlights a concern for physical sustenance. In Hebrew, "bread" is "lechem," a staple of life and a symbol of God's provision. The Israelites' fear of hunger indicates a lack of trust in God's promise to provide for their needs. Historically, God had provided manna in the wilderness, demonstrating His ability to sustain them. Their desire to seek sustenance in Egypt shows a preference for human solutions over divine provision.

and there we will stay
The decision to "stay" in Egypt signifies a finality and a turning away from God's plan. The Hebrew word "yashab" means to dwell or settle, indicating a long-term commitment. This choice represents a rejection of the land God promised to their ancestors and a refusal to trust in His future plans for them. It is a poignant reminder of the consequences of choosing comfort and security over faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his warnings about the consequences of disobedience to God.

2. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites left in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. They are seeking guidance from Jeremiah about whether to stay in Judah or flee to Egypt.

3. Egypt
A neighboring nation to Judah, often seen as a place of refuge but also a symbol of reliance on human strength rather than God.

4. War and Famine
The immediate threats facing the people of Judah, which they hope to escape by fleeing to Egypt.

5. God's Warning
Through Jeremiah, God warns the people against going to Egypt, as it represents a lack of trust in His provision and protection.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Plan
The remnant's desire to flee to Egypt reflects a lack of trust in God's plan. We must learn to trust God's guidance, even when it seems counterintuitive.

The Danger of Seeking Security Outside of God
Egypt symbolizes a false sense of security. True security comes from reliance on God, not on worldly solutions.

Consequences of Disobedience
Ignoring God's warnings can lead to dire consequences. We must heed God's instructions to avoid spiritual and physical peril.

The Illusion of Peace
The promise of peace in Egypt is an illusion. True peace is found in obedience to God, not in escaping difficult circumstances.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The Israelites' history with Egypt should have taught them the dangers of returning to old ways. We must learn from past mistakes and not repeat them.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the remnant of Judah's desire to go to Egypt reveal about their faith in God?

2. How can we apply the lesson of trusting in God's plan to our own lives when facing difficult decisions?

3. In what ways do we seek security in "modern-day Egypts," and how can we shift our reliance back to God?

4. How does the warning in Jeremiah 42:14 relate to the broader biblical theme of obedience and trust in God?

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

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The Israelites' previous experience in Egypt and their deliverance by God, highlighting the danger of returning to a place of former bondage.

Isaiah 31:1
A warning against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing trust in God rather than human alliances.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord with all your heart, rather than leaning on your own understanding, which parallels the decision facing the remnant of Judah.