Jeremiah 44:28

Those who escape the sword will return from Egypt to Judah, few in number, and the whole remnant of Judah who went to dwell in the land of Egypt will know whose word will stand, Mine or theirs!

Study Bible

Those who escape the sword
This phrase refers to the survivors of a divine judgment. In the Hebrew context, "the sword" often symbolizes war, destruction, or divine retribution. Historically, the Israelites faced numerous threats from surrounding nations, and the sword represents the tangible consequences of disobedience to God. The escape signifies God's mercy, allowing a remnant to survive despite the judgment.

will return from the land of Egypt
Egypt, in biblical history, is often a place of refuge but also a symbol of bondage and idolatry. The Israelites' return from Egypt signifies a return to God's covenant land, Judah. This movement is not just physical but spiritual, representing a return to faithfulness and reliance on God rather than foreign powers.

to the land of Judah
Judah is the southern kingdom, the land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It holds significant spiritual importance as the center of worship and the location of Jerusalem and the Temple. Returning to Judah symbolizes a restoration of the relationship with God and a return to the place of divine promise and blessing.

few in number
This phrase highlights the severity of the judgment and the small size of the remnant. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience. However, it also emphasizes the preciousness of the faithful remnant, a theme throughout Scripture where God often works through a faithful few to accomplish His purposes.

Then the whole remnant of Judah
The "remnant" is a recurring biblical theme, referring to those who remain faithful to God amidst widespread unfaithfulness. This remnant is a beacon of hope and a testament to God's enduring covenant. The "whole remnant" suggests a unified group, purified and refined through trials, ready to fulfill God's purposes.

who went to live in the land of Egypt
This phrase underscores the disobedience of those who sought refuge in Egypt against God's command. It serves as a historical reminder of the Israelites' tendency to rely on human solutions rather than divine guidance. Their journey to Egypt was a step away from God's will, and their return signifies repentance and restoration.

will know whose word will stand, Mine or theirs
This powerful declaration emphasizes the authority and reliability of God's word over human plans and declarations. In the Hebrew context, "word" (dabar) signifies not just spoken words but the active, living power of God's promises and commands. This phrase challenges the people to recognize the supremacy of God's will and the futility of opposing it. It serves as a call to trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness, reinforcing the truth that His word is eternal and unchanging.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Remnant of Judah
The small group of Israelites who survived the Babylonian conquest and fled to Egypt against God's command.

3. Egypt
A place of refuge for the remnant of Judah, symbolizing disobedience and lack of trust in God's protection.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which faced destruction due to its people's persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

5. The Sword
Represents the judgment and destruction that God allowed to come upon His people due to their disobedience.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
Despite human disobedience, God's word and promises remain unshaken. He is sovereign over all events and faithful to His covenant.

Consequences of Disobedience
The remnant's flight to Egypt symbolizes a lack of trust in God. Disobedience leads to judgment, but God still offers a path to redemption.

The Importance of Trusting God
Trusting in human solutions over God's commands leads to failure. True security is found in obedience to God.

The Role of the Remnant
God often works through a faithful remnant to accomplish His purposes. This encourages believers to remain faithful even when others fall away.

God's Word Stands Firm
The ultimate test of truth is whether it aligns with God's word. Believers are called to discern and uphold God's truth in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the remnant's return from Egypt to Judah teach us about God's faithfulness and the consequences of disobedience?

2. How can we apply the concept of a "remnant" to our lives today, especially in a world that often turns away from God?

3. In what ways does trusting in human solutions over God's commands manifest in our lives, and how can we correct this?

4. How does the account of the remnant in Jeremiah 44:28 connect with the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision to trust God's word over human wisdom. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by the remnant of Judah.

Isaiah 10:20-22
Speaks of a remnant returning, highlighting God's faithfulness in preserving a faithful few despite widespread judgment.

Ezekiel 6:8-10
Discusses the concept of a remnant that will remember God and return to Him, similar to the remnant in Jeremiah.

2 Kings 25:26
Describes the flight of the remnant to Egypt, providing historical context for Jeremiah 44.

Romans 9:27-29
Paul references the remnant, emphasizing God's mercy and the fulfillment of His promises.