Jeremiah 42:17

So all who resolve to go to Egypt to reside there will die by sword and famine and plague. Not one of them will survive or escape the disaster I will bring upon them.'

Study Bible

So all who resolve
The phrase "resolve" indicates a firm decision or determination. In the Hebrew context, this reflects a deliberate choice made by the people of Judah. Historically, this decision was made despite the warnings from God through the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew root word here suggests a setting of the mind or heart, emphasizing the willful disobedience of the people. This serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our decisions with God's will, as our choices have profound consequences.

to go to Egypt
Egypt, in the biblical narrative, often symbolizes a place of refuge but also a place of bondage and idolatry. The Israelites' history with Egypt is complex, marked by both deliverance and temptation. In this context, going to Egypt represents a lack of trust in God's protection and a return to old dependencies. Theologically, it underscores the danger of seeking security in worldly powers rather than in God.

to reside there
The intention "to reside" implies a permanent settlement, not just a temporary refuge. This decision reflects a deeper commitment to abandon the land God had given them. The Hebrew word for "reside" can also mean to dwell or settle, indicating a significant shift in allegiance and trust. Spiritually, it challenges believers to consider where they choose to "reside" in their faith journey—whether in God's promises or in worldly assurances.

will die by the sword, famine, and plague
This triad of judgment—sword, famine, and plague—represents comprehensive destruction. Each element signifies a different aspect of divine judgment: the sword for warfare and violence, famine for scarcity and desperation, and plague for disease and suffering. Historically, these were common consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God. Theologically, they serve as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God's guidance.

Not one of them will survive or escape
The absolute nature of this statement emphasizes the certainty of God's judgment. The Hebrew construction here is emphatic, underscoring that there will be no exceptions or loopholes. This highlights God's justice and the inevitability of His decrees. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient, trusting in God's provision and protection.

the disaster I will bring upon them
The term "disaster" conveys a sense of calamity and divine retribution. In the Hebrew context, it is often associated with God's righteous judgment against sin and rebellion. This phrase reminds us of the consequences of straying from God's path and the importance of heeding His warnings. It also reflects God's sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of nations and individuals.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He warned them of the consequences of their disobedience.

2. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites left in Judah after the Babylonian exile, seeking guidance from Jeremiah about whether to flee to Egypt for safety.

3. Egypt
A neighboring nation where the remnant of Judah considered fleeing to escape the Babylonian threat, symbolizing reliance on worldly powers rather than God.

4. Sword, Famine, and Plague
The three forms of judgment God declared would follow those who disobeyed His command and went to Egypt, representing comprehensive divine retribution.

5. Babylonian Threat
The geopolitical context of the time, with Babylon as the dominant power, which the people of Judah feared and sought to escape.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Guidance
The remnant's decision to seek refuge in Egypt reflects a lack of trust in God's protection. Believers are encouraged to seek and trust God's guidance, even when it seems counterintuitive.

Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience to God's commands leads to dire consequences. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our actions with God's will.

Avoiding Worldly Reliance
Egypt symbolizes reliance on worldly solutions rather than divine provision. Christians are called to place their trust in God rather than in worldly powers or solutions.

The Certainty of God's Word
God's pronouncements through Jeremiah were certain and came to pass. This underscores the reliability and authority of God's Word.

Seeking God's Will in Uncertainty
In times of uncertainty, like the remnant faced, believers should earnestly seek God's will and be willing to follow it, even when it challenges our understanding or desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the decision of the remnant to consider fleeing to Egypt reveal about their faith and trust in God?

2. How can we apply the lesson of avoiding reliance on worldly solutions in our own lives today?

3. In what ways does Jeremiah 42:17 reflect the broader biblical theme of obedience and its consequences?

4. How can we discern God's guidance in our lives, especially when facing difficult decisions?

5. What are some modern-day "Egypts" that we might be tempted to turn to instead of trusting in God's provision and protection? How can we resist these temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, similar to the consequences described in Jeremiah 42:17.

Isaiah 31:1
Warns against relying on Egypt for help, emphasizing trust in God rather than in human powers.

Psalm 91
Offers assurance of God's protection for those who trust in Him, contrasting with the fate of those who seek refuge in Egypt.