Jeremiah 43:1

When Jeremiah had finished telling all the people all the words of the LORD their God--everything that the LORD had sent him to say--

Study Bible

When Jeremiah had finished telling all the people all the words of the LORD their God
When Jeremiah had finished
This phrase marks the completion of a significant prophetic task. Jeremiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, was often tasked with delivering difficult messages from God to the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "finished" is "kalah," which implies bringing something to completion or fulfillment. This suggests that Jeremiah was faithful in delivering the entirety of God's message, emphasizing the importance of obedience and perseverance in fulfilling God's commands.

telling all the people
Jeremiah's audience was "all the people," indicating the inclusivity of God's message. The Hebrew word for "telling" is "dabar," which means to speak or declare. This highlights the role of the prophet as a mouthpiece for God, ensuring that His words reach everyone, regardless of their status or position. It underscores the universal nature of God's communication and the responsibility of His messengers to reach all corners of society.

all the words of the LORD
The repetition of "all" emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of the message. Jeremiah did not withhold any part of God's message, reflecting the integrity and faithfulness required of a prophet. The phrase "words of the LORD" signifies divine authority. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which conveys His eternal and unchanging nature. This reminds us that the messages delivered by prophets are not their own but are divinely inspired and authoritative.

their God
This phrase personalizes the relationship between the people and God. "Their God" indicates a covenant relationship, reminding the people of Judah of their unique bond with YHWH. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the expectations He has for His chosen people. The possessive "their" underscores the personal and communal relationship that God desires with His people, calling them to loyalty and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance in the face of opposition and his deep emotional connection to his prophetic mission.

2. The People of Judah
The audience to whom Jeremiah was speaking. They were often resistant to his messages, which frequently called for repentance and warned of impending judgment.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His will and guidance through His prophets. In this context, He is the source of the message delivered by Jeremiah.

4. The Words of the LORD
The specific messages and instructions given by God to Jeremiah to convey to the people. These words often included warnings, calls to repentance, and promises of restoration.

5. The Event of Delivering the Message
This refers to the act of Jeremiah faithfully communicating God's words to the people, despite their resistance and the potential for personal danger.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Delivering God's Message
Jeremiah's example teaches us the importance of faithfully communicating God's truth, even when it is unpopular or met with resistance.

The Authority of God's Word
The passage underscores the authority of God's words, which are not merely human opinions but divine instructions that demand a response.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Jeremiah's courage in delivering God's message despite opposition encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and convictions.

The Role of Prophets and Preachers
This passage highlights the critical role of those called to speak God's truth, reminding us of the responsibility and accountability that comes with such a calling.

Listening to God's Voice
The people's response to Jeremiah's message challenges us to examine our own receptiveness to God's word and our willingness to act upon it.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's faithfulness in delivering God's message inspire you in your own walk with God?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are listening to and acting upon God's word in your daily life?

3. How do you respond when you encounter resistance or opposition to your faith or beliefs?

4. What can we learn from Jeremiah about the importance of delivering God's message with both truth and love?

5. How can you apply the lessons from Jeremiah 43:1 to your role in your community or church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:4-10
This passage describes Jeremiah's calling and commission as a prophet, emphasizing his role as God's mouthpiece to the nations.

2 Timothy 4:2
This New Testament verse encourages believers to preach the word, be prepared in season and out of season, and to correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction, similar to Jeremiah's mission.

Ezekiel 2:3-7
Like Jeremiah, Ezekiel is called to speak to a rebellious house, highlighting the common prophetic theme of delivering God's message to a resistant audience.