Jeremiah 42:4

"I have heard you," replied Jeremiah the prophet. "I will surely pray to the LORD your God as you request, and I will tell you everything that the LORD answers; I will not withhold a word from you."

Study Bible

I have heard you
This phrase signifies the attentive and responsive nature of Jeremiah as a prophet. In the Hebrew context, the word for "heard" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies not just auditory reception but an understanding and readiness to act. Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to be a mediator between God and the people, and his acknowledgment here shows his willingness to fulfill this duty. Historically, prophets were seen as the mouthpiece of God, and their attentiveness was crucial for conveying divine messages accurately.

replied Jeremiah the prophet
Jeremiah's identity as a prophet is emphasized here, underscoring his authority and divine appointment. The Hebrew term for prophet, נָבִיא (navi), indicates one who is called or appointed by God to deliver His messages. Jeremiah's life and ministry were marked by obedience and perseverance, often in the face of opposition. His reply is not just a personal response but one that carries the weight of his prophetic office.

I will surely pray to the LORD your God as you request
The commitment to pray reflects Jeremiah's dedication to intercession. The Hebrew word for "pray" (פָּלַל, palal) involves interceding or mediating, often with a sense of pleading or judgment. Jeremiah's promise to pray "to the LORD your God" highlights the personal relationship between the people and Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. This phrase also indicates the seriousness with which Jeremiah takes their request, showing his role as an intermediary who seeks divine guidance on behalf of the people.

and I will tell you everything the LORD says
Jeremiah's promise to relay "everything" underscores his commitment to truth and transparency. The Hebrew root for "tell" (נָגַד, nagad) means to declare or make known, emphasizing the clarity and completeness of the message. Jeremiah's integrity as a prophet is evident in his assurance that he will convey the full counsel of God, without alteration or omission. This reflects the biblical principle that God's word is to be communicated faithfully and fully.

I will not withhold a word from you
This final phrase reinforces Jeremiah's dedication to delivering God's message in its entirety. The Hebrew concept of withholding (כָּחַשׁ, kachash) implies holding back or denying. Jeremiah's assurance that he will not withhold any word highlights his commitment to honesty and the importance of conveying God's will without reservation. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the prophet's responsibility to speak God's truth, regardless of personal cost or the potential reaction of the audience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile of the Israelites. In this context, he is approached by the remnant of Judah for guidance.

2. The Remnant of Judah
The remaining people of Judah after the Babylonian conquest, seeking divine guidance through Jeremiah.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, to whom Jeremiah promises to pray and from whom he will receive guidance.

4. Egypt
The place the remnant of Judah is considering fleeing to for safety, against God's previous warnings.

5. Babylonian Conquest
The backdrop of this chapter, where Jerusalem has been destroyed, and the people are in a state of fear and uncertainty.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Seeking God’s Guidance
Just as the remnant sought Jeremiah's intercession, believers today should seek God's guidance in times of uncertainty.

Faithfulness in Delivering God’s Message
Jeremiah's commitment to relay God's message without omission is a model for believers to faithfully share God's truth.

Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Despite the fear of the unknown, trusting in God's plan is crucial, as He sees beyond our immediate circumstances.

The Role of Intercessory Prayer
Jeremiah's role as an intercessor highlights the power and importance of praying for others.

Obedience to God’s Word
The remnant's request for guidance implies a willingness to obey, which is essential for receiving God's direction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's response to the remnant of Judah demonstrate the role of a prophet, and how can we apply this in our own lives when seeking or delivering God's guidance?

2. In what ways does the situation of the remnant of Judah reflect our own times of uncertainty, and how can we apply Jeremiah 42:4 to find peace in God's plans?

3. How does Jeremiah's promise to not withhold any word from God challenge us in our own communication of God's truth to others?

4. What can we learn from the remnant's approach to seeking God's guidance through Jeremiah, and how does this relate to the New Testament teaching on prayer and seeking wisdom?

5. How does the context of Jeremiah 42:4 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when His plans are not immediately clear to us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:11
This verse speaks of God's plans for hope and a future, which contrasts with the fear and uncertainty faced by the remnant in Jeremiah 42.

1 Samuel 3:18
Samuel's commitment to relay God's message without omission parallels Jeremiah's promise to not withhold any word from God.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, similar to how the remnant seeks guidance through Jeremiah.