◄ Jeremiah 26 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
A Warning to the Cities of Judah 1At the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came from the LORD: 2“This is what the LORD says: Stand in the courtyard of the house of the LORD and speak all the words I have commanded you to speak to all the cities of Judah who come to worship there. Do not omit a word. 3Perhaps they will listen and turn—each from his evil way of life—so that I may relent of the disaster I am planning to bring upon them because of the evil of their deeds. 4And you are to tell them that this is what the LORD says: ‘If you do not listen to Me and walk in My law, which I have set before you, 5and if you do not listen to the words of My servants the prophets, whom I have sent you again and againa even though you did not listen, 6then I will make this house like Shiloh, and I will make this city an object of cursing among all the nations of the earth.’” Jeremiah Threatened with Death 7Now the priests and prophets and all the people heard Jeremiah speaking these words in the house of the LORD, 8and as soon as he had finished telling all the people everything the LORD had commanded him to say, the priests and prophets and all the people seized him, shouting, “You must surely die! 9How dare you prophesy in the name of the LORD that this house will become like Shiloh and this city will be desolate and deserted!” And all the people assembled against Jeremiah in the house of the LORD. 10When the officials of Judah heard these things, they went up from the king’s palace to the house of the LORD and sat there at the entrance of the New Gate. 11Then the priests and prophets said to the officials and all the people, “This man is worthy of death, for he has prophesied against this city, as you have heard with your own ears!” 12But Jeremiah said to all the officials and all the people, “The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that you have heard. 13So now, correct your ways and deeds, and obey the voice of the LORD your God, so that He might relent of the disaster He has pronounced against you. 14As for me, here I am in your hands; do to me what you think is good and right. 15But know for certain that if you put me to death, you will bring innocent blood upon yourselves, upon this city, and upon its residents; for truly the LORD has sent me to speak all these words in your hearing.” Jeremiah Spared from Death 16Then the officials and all the people told the priests and prophets, “This man is not worthy of death, for he has spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God!” 17Some of the elders of the land stood up and said to the whole assembly of the people, 18“Micah the Moreshite prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah and told all the people of Judah that this is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘Zion will be plowed like a field, Jerusalem will become a heap of rubble, and the temple mount a wooded ridge.’b 19Did Hezekiah king of Judah or anyone else in Judah put him to death? Did Hezekiah not fear the LORD and seek His favor, and did not the LORD relent of the disaster He had pronounced against them? But we are about to bring great harm on ourselves!” The Prophet Uriah 20Now there was another man prophesying in the name of the LORD, Uriah son of Shemaiah from Kiriath-jearim. He prophesied against this city and against this land the same things that Jeremiah did.c 21King Jehoiakim and all his mighty men and officials heard his words, and the king sought to put him to death. But when Uriah found out about it, he fled in fear and went to Egypt. 22Then King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt: Elnathan son of Achbor along with some other men. 23They brought Uriah out of Egypt and took him to King Jehoiakim, who had him put to the sword and his body thrown into the burial place of the common people. 24Nevertheless, Ahikam son of Shaphan supported Jeremiah, so he was not handed over to the people to be put to death. Footnotes: 5 a Literally I have sent you, rising up early and sending (them), 18 b Micah 3:12 20 c Literally according to all the words of Jeremiah Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Jeremiah 26 Summary A Warning to the Cities of Judah Verses 1–3 – Jeremiah Sent to the Temple In the opening year of King Jehoiakim, the LORD orders Jeremiah to stand in the temple court and proclaim every word of warning. The prophet must not soften the message, because national survival hinges on repentance. Verses 4–6 – Warning of Desolation If Judah will not “listen to My servants the prophets” (v. 5) the temple will become “like Shiloh” (v. 6) and Jerusalem a curse among the nations. The ruin of Shiloh is held up as a living illustration of what happens when worship is empty and hearts stay hard. Verses 7–11 – Priests and Prophets Demand Death Jeremiah’s words enrage the religious leaders. They seize him and shout to the crowd, “This man deserves death” (v. 11). Their charge: he has prophesied against the city—a crime they equate with treason. Verses 12–15 – Jeremiah’s Bold Reply Jeremiah calmly declares, “The LORD sent me to prophesy all the words you have heard” (v. 12). He urges them to mend their ways. As for himself, he is ready to die, but warns that shedding innocent blood will bring guilt on the whole city. Verses 16–19 – The Leaders Defend Jeremiah Princes and elders overrule the priests, recalling how King Hezekiah heard a similar threat from Micah and chose humility instead of violence. Jeremiah is spared, proving that a remnant within Judah still honors God’s word. Verses 20–24 – Uriah the Prophet and Jeremiah’s Protection A parallel case is told: Uriah prophesied like Jeremiah, fled to Egypt, was extradited, and executed by Jehoiakim. Only the influence of Ahikam son of Shaphan shields Jeremiah from the same fate. Jeremiah 26 is a pivotal chapter that highlights the confrontation between the prophet Jeremiah, who carries the message of impending judgment from God, and the leaders and people of Judah. This confrontation takes place at the temple, a symbol of their faith, where the people of Judah are called to repentance or face dire consequences. Historical Setting • Date: c. 609–608 BC, early in Jehoiakim’s 11-year reign (2 Kings 23:36). • Political climate: Egypt had just beaten Judah at Megiddo; Babylon was rising fast. Judah felt squeezed yet still complacent. • Religious atmosphere: outward temple ritual was thriving (Jeremiah 7), but justice and mercy were neglected. Jeremiah’s sermon strikes at that hypocrisy. Jeremiah’s Temple Sermon in Context Chapter 26 narrates the public fallout; chapter 7 records the full sermon. Together they show: 1. Place: the “court of the LORD’s house,” the busiest public square in Jerusalem. 2. Content: call to repent; threat that the temple could fall (unthinkable to his hearers). 3. Outcome: mixed—violent opposition from clergy, cautious protection from civil officials. Legal Proceedings in Judah • Accusation: Deuteronomy 18:20—“the prophet who speaks presumptuously shall die.” • Defense: Jeremiah appeals to divine commission and precedent (Micah 3:12, Hezekiah’s response). • Court structure: The priests initiate charges, princes preside, elders advise—the same tripartite system hinted at in Deuteronomy 19:15-21. • Verdict: life spared, showing the Mosaic law could still function when leaders feared God. Archaeological Insights Shiloh: Excavations reveal burn layers and destruction debris dating to c. 1050 BC, matching 1 Samuel 4. Jeremiah’s audience could visit the ruins only 18 miles north of Jerusalem—a sobering field trip. Temple Mount: Eighth-century BCE bullae (seal impressions) bearing names “Gemariah son of Shaphan” and “Azariah son of Hilkiah” confirm the prominence of priestly and scribal families mentioned in Jeremiah. Prophetic Courage and Divine Protection Jeremiah’s willingness to die (v. 14) mirrors later examples: • Esther 4:16—“If I perish, I perish.” • Acts 21:13—Paul: “I am ready…to die in Jerusalem.” God does not always spare His messengers (see Uriah), but He controls the outcome (Luke 4:30). Ahikam’s intervention shows God working through people of influence. Lessons from Shiloh 1. Sacred places hold no magic shield; obedience, not location, grants security (1 Samuel 4:3-11). 2. God’s patience has limits—centuries passed between Shiloh’s fall and Jeremiah’s warning, but judgment eventually landed. 3. National blessing depends on moral choices, not heritage (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). Connections to Other Scriptures • Deuteronomy 30:15-18 – Life and death set before the nation, echoing Jeremiah’s appeal. • 2 Kings 22–23 – Josiah’s reforms show that true repentance can delay wrath. • Jonah 3 – Nineveh avoided destruction by swift repentance; Judah could have done the same. • Matthew 23:37-38 – Jesus mourns Jerusalem and foretells the temple’s desolation, linking back to Jeremiah’s warning. • Acts 4:19–20 – Peter and John, like Jeremiah, insist on obeying God rather than men. The Role of Civil Leadership Princes and elders weigh the evidence rather than rushing to satisfy angry clergy. Their decision models Proverbs 29:25—“Fear of man will prove a snare.” When rulers heed God’s word, they restrain mob justice. Practical Takeaways • Speak truth even when culture resists; God’s message is not negotiable. • Scripture calls leaders to protect, not persecute, faithful voices. • Remember Shiloh: religious tradition without obedience invites disaster. • God may use unexpected allies (Ahikam) to shelter His servants; trust Him with outcomes. Looking Ahead in Jeremiah Chapter 26 is a hinge: despite temporary reprieve, Judah’s refusal to repent soon leads to Babylonian invasion (chapters 34–39). Jeremiah’s survival ensures a continuing witness, proving that while the messenger can be threatened, God’s message cannot be silenced. Connections to Additional Scriptures Acts 5:29 But Peter and the other apostles replied, 'We must obey God rather than men.' This verse echoes the theme of prioritizing obedience to God over human approval. Matthew 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. This Beatitude reinforces the blessing that comes with enduring persecution for righteousness. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. This verse encourages us to embrace the courage and strength God provides. Teaching Points Divine Commission Jeremiah is commanded by God to stand in the courtyard of the LORD’s house and deliver a message to all the cities of Judah (Jeremiah 26:2). This highlights the importance of obedience to God's call, regardless of the potential consequences. Message of Repentance The core of Jeremiah's message is a call to repentance, urging the people to turn from their evil ways so that God might relent from the disaster He has pronounced (Jeremiah 26:3). Response of the People The priests, prophets, and all the people seize Jeremiah, accusing him of deserving death for prophesying against the city (Jeremiah 26:8-9). This reflects the resistance often faced when confronting sin and calling for change. Jeremiah’s Defense Jeremiah stands firm, reiterating that he speaks on behalf of the LORD and urges the people to amend their ways (Jeremiah 26:12-13). His courage in the face of potential death is a testament to his faithfulness. Divine Protection Despite the initial threat, the officials and some elders defend Jeremiah, recalling the precedent of Micah’s prophecy and the mercy shown by King Hezekiah (Jeremiah 26:16-19). This demonstrates God's sovereignty and protection over His faithful servants. Practical Applications Stand Firm in Faith Like Jeremiah, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when it is unpopular or met with hostility. Speak Truth with Love We should deliver God’s truth with love and compassion, always seeking the repentance and restoration of others. Trust in God’s Protection When facing opposition, trust that God is our protector and will uphold us as we fulfill His purposes. Reflect on Personal Obedience Consider areas in your life where God is calling you to greater obedience and courage. People 1. Jeremiah The prophet who delivers the message from the LORD to the people of Judah. He is central to the narrative as he faithfully conveys God's warning to the people, despite the threat to his life. 2. The Priests Religious leaders in Jerusalem who, along with the prophets, oppose Jeremiah's message. They are instrumental in stirring up the people against Jeremiah, seeking his death for prophesying against the city. 3. The Prophets Alongside the priests, these individuals also oppose Jeremiah. They are part of the religious establishment that feels threatened by Jeremiah's prophecies of doom. 4. The People The general populace of Jerusalem who are initially swayed by the priests and prophets to call for Jeremiah's death. They represent the collective response of the nation to Jeremiah's message. 5. The Officials of Judah Government leaders who come from the king's house to hear the case against Jeremiah. They play a crucial role in the legal proceedings and ultimately decide not to sentence Jeremiah to death. 6. The Elders of the Land These are the wise and respected leaders who recall the precedent of the prophet Micah, advocating for Jeremiah's release by reminding the people of past prophetic messages that were not met with violence. 7. Uriah son of Shemaiah Another prophet who, like Jeremiah, prophesied against Jerusalem. He fled to Egypt to escape King Jehoiakim's wrath but was brought back and executed, serving as a contrast to Jeremiah's fate. 8. Ahikam son of Shaphan A supporter of Jeremiah who uses his influence to protect the prophet from being handed over to the people for execution. His intervention is crucial in saving Jeremiah's life. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location in this chapter, where Jeremiah delivers his prophetic message. It is the capital city of Judah and the spiritual center for the Israelites. In Hebrew, Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), often seen as the city of peace and a significant place in biblical history. 2. The House of the LORD This refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, where Jeremiah is instructed to stand and proclaim God's message. The Temple is a sacred place for worship and sacrifices, representing God's presence among His people. In Hebrew, it is "בֵּית יְהוָה" (Beit Yahweh). 3. The Cities of Judah These are the various cities within the kingdom of Judah. Jeremiah's message is directed not only to the inhabitants of Jerusalem but also to those from the surrounding cities who come to worship at the Temple. The Hebrew term for Judah is "יְהוּדָה" (Yehudah), which signifies the southern kingdom of the divided Israel. Events 1. The Command to Prophesy The chapter begins with the LORD instructing Jeremiah to stand in the courtyard of the LORD's house and deliver a message to all the cities of Judah who come to worship. The message is a call to repentance, warning them to listen and turn from their evil ways (Jeremiah 26:1-3). 2. The Warning of Destruction Jeremiah is commanded to speak all the words the LORD has given him, without omitting a word. He warns that if the people do not listen, the LORD will make the temple like Shiloh and the city a curse among the nations (Jeremiah 26:4-6). The reference to Shiloh, where the tabernacle once stood, serves as a historical warning of destruction due to disobedience. 3. The Reaction of the Priests and Prophets Upon hearing Jeremiah's words, the priests, prophets, and all the people seize him, declaring that he must die for prophesying against the city (Jeremiah 26:7-9). This reflects the tension between true prophecy and the established religious order. 4. The Trial Before the Officials The officials of Judah hear of the commotion and come from the king's house to the temple. They sit at the entrance of the New Gate to hold a trial for Jeremiah (Jeremiah 26:10-11). The priests and prophets accuse Jeremiah of deserving death for his prophecy. 5. Jeremiah's Defense Jeremiah defends himself by stating that the LORD sent him to prophesy against the temple and the city. He urges the people to amend their ways and obey the LORD to avert the disaster (Jeremiah 26:12-13). He submits himself to their judgment but warns that killing him would bring innocent blood upon them (Jeremiah 26:14-15). 6. The Officials' Verdict The officials and the people declare that Jeremiah does not deserve to die, recognizing that he has spoken in the name of the LORD (Jeremiah 26:16). This decision highlights the recognition of true prophecy despite opposition. 7. The Precedent of Micah Some elders of the land recall the precedent of the prophet Micah, who prophesied similarly during the reign of Hezekiah. They note that Hezekiah did not put Micah to death but feared the LORD and sought His favor, which averted disaster (Jeremiah 26:17-19). 8. The Case of Uriah The chapter briefly recounts the account of another prophet, Uriah, who also prophesied against the city. Unlike Jeremiah, Uriah fled to Egypt but was brought back and executed by King Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 26:20-23). This serves as a contrast to Jeremiah's situation. 9. Ahikam's Support The chapter concludes with Ahikam son of Shaphan supporting Jeremiah, preventing him from being handed over to the people to be put to death (Jeremiah 26:24). Ahikam's intervention underscores the protection of God's prophets through faithful individuals. Lessons from Jeremiah 26 1. Stand Firm in Your Calling Jeremiah 26 teaches us the importance of standing firm in our calling, even when faced with opposition. Jeremiah was tasked with delivering a difficult message to the people of Judah, and he did so with unwavering faith. As it is written, "This is what the LORD says: Stand in the courtyard of the LORD’s house and speak to all the cities of Judah" (Jeremiah 26:2). Like Jeremiah, we must remain steadfast in our mission, trusting that God will guide and protect us. 2. Speak the Truth Boldly Jeremiah's courage in speaking the truth, despite the potential consequences, is a powerful reminder for us today. He did not sugarcoat God's message, but delivered it as instructed. "Perhaps they will listen and turn each from his evil way" (Jeremiah 26:3). We are called to share the truth of the Gospel with boldness, knowing that it has the power to transform lives. 3. The Power of Repentance The chapter highlights the transformative power of repentance. God’s message through Jeremiah was clear: if the people repented, He would relent from bringing disaster. "If you do not listen to Me and follow My law, which I set before you" (Jeremiah 26:4). This serves as a reminder that God’s mercy is always available to those who turn back to Him with sincere hearts. 4. Expect Opposition Jeremiah faced significant opposition from the priests and prophets, yet he remained faithful. "The priests and the prophets and all the people seized him, saying, 'You must die!'" (Jeremiah 26:8). As followers of Christ, we should expect challenges and opposition, but we can take heart knowing that God is with us every step of the way. 5. God’s Protection is Unfailing Despite the threats against him, Jeremiah was ultimately protected by God. "But the hand of Ahikam son of Shaphan was with Jeremiah, so that he was not handed over to the people to be put to death" (Jeremiah 26:24). This reassures us that when we are in God’s will, His protection is unfailing, and He will provide the support we need. 6. The Importance of Obedience Jeremiah’s obedience to God’s command is a central theme in this chapter. He delivered God’s message exactly as instructed, demonstrating the importance of obedience in our walk with God. "Tell them everything I command you; do not omit a word" (Jeremiah 26:2). Our obedience is a testament to our faith and trust in God’s plan. 7. God’s Patience and Justice The chapter illustrates God’s patience and justice. He gives the people of Judah a chance to repent before executing judgment. "Then I will relent and not bring upon them the disaster I was planning" (Jeremiah 26:3). This balance of patience and justice is a reminder of God’s character and His desire for all to come to repentance. 8. The Role of Community in Accountability The community’s reaction to Jeremiah’s message shows the role of community in holding each other accountable. While some sought to harm Jeremiah, others defended him, recognizing the truth in his words. "This man does not deserve to die, for he has spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God" (Jeremiah 26:16). We are called to support and hold each other accountable in our faith journeys. 9. The Consequences of Ignoring God’s Word Ignoring God’s word leads to dire consequences, as seen in the warnings given to Judah. "If you do not listen to Me and follow My law" (Jeremiah 26:4). This serves as a sobering reminder that turning away from God’s instructions can lead to spiritual and physical consequences. 10. Faithfulness in the Face of Fear Jeremiah’s faithfulness, even when faced with fear, is an inspiring example for us. He trusted in God’s plan and delivered the message despite the danger. "As for me, I am in your hands; do with me what you think is good and right" (Jeremiah 26:14). We are encouraged to remain faithful, trusting that God’s purposes will prevail, even in the face of fear. Topics 1. Jeremiah's Prophetic Warning Jeremiah is commanded by the LORD to stand in the court of the LORD's house and deliver a message to all the cities of Judah. The message is a call to repentance, warning of impending disaster if they do not listen to God's words. ^"This is what the LORD says: Stand in the courtyard of the LORD’s house and speak to all the cities of Judah that come to worship there. Tell them everything I command you; do not omit a word."^ (Jeremiah 26:2) 2. Call to Repentance The LORD offers a chance for the people to turn from their evil ways, promising to relent from the disaster He has planned if they heed His warning. ^"Perhaps they will listen and turn—each from his evil way of life—so that I may relent of the disaster I am planning to bring upon them because of the evil of their deeds."^ (Jeremiah 26:3) 3. The Threat of Destruction Jeremiah delivers a stark warning that if the people do not listen, the temple will become like Shiloh, and Jerusalem will be a curse among the nations. ^"And you are to tell them that this is what the LORD says: If you do not listen to Me and walk in My law, which I set before you, and if you do not listen to the words of My servants the prophets, whom I have sent to you again and again, though you did not listen, then I will make this house like Shiloh, and I will make this city an object of cursing among all the nations of the earth."^ (Jeremiah 26:4-6) 4. Reaction of the Priests and Prophets The priests, prophets, and all the people seize Jeremiah, accusing him of deserving death for prophesying against the city. ^"And as soon as Jeremiah had finished telling all the people everything the LORD had commanded him to say, the priests, the prophets, and all the people seized him and said, 'You must surely die!'"^ (Jeremiah 26:8) 5. Jeremiah's Defense Jeremiah defends himself by reiterating that he was sent by the LORD to deliver the message, urging them to amend their ways and obey the LORD. ^"Then Jeremiah said to all the officials and all the people, 'The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and this city all the words that you have heard. So now, correct your ways and deeds, and obey the voice of the LORD your God, so that He might relent of the disaster He has pronounced against you.'"^ (Jeremiah 26:12-13) 6. The People's Decision The officials and people decide that Jeremiah does not deserve to die, recognizing that he has spoken in the name of the LORD. ^"Then the officials and all the people told the priests and prophets, 'This man does not deserve to die, for he has spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God.'"^ (Jeremiah 26:16) 7. Historical Precedent: Micah and Hezekiah Some elders recall how the prophet Micah had similarly prophesied during the reign of Hezekiah, and the king did not put him to death but feared the LORD and sought His favor. ^"Some of the elders of the land stood up and said to the whole assembly of the people, 'Micah the Moreshite prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, saying to all the people of Judah: This is what the LORD of Hosts says: Zion will be plowed like a field, Jerusalem will become a heap of rubble, and the temple mount a wooded ridge.'"^ (Jeremiah 26:17-18) 8. The Fate of Uriah The chapter concludes with the account of another prophet, Uriah, who also prophesied against Jerusalem and was put to death by King Jehoiakim, contrasting with Jeremiah's survival. ^"There was also a man named Uriah son of Shemaiah from Kiriath-jearim, who prophesied against this city and this land in words like those of Jeremiah. King Jehoiakim and all his mighty men and officials heard his words, and the king sought to put him to death. But Uriah heard of it and fled in fear to Egypt."^ (Jeremiah 26:20-21) Themes 1. Prophetic Warning Jeremiah is commanded by God to deliver a message of warning to the people of Judah. The theme of prophetic warning is central, as God instructs Jeremiah to speak all the words He commands without omission (Jeremiah 26:2). The Hebrew root for "warning" (הזהרה, "hazharah") emphasizes the urgency and seriousness of the message. 2. Call to Repentance The chapter highlights God's desire for His people to repent. In Jeremiah 26:3, God expresses hope that the people will listen and turn from their evil ways, so He may relent from the disaster He plans to bring upon them. The Hebrew word for "repent" (שוב, "shuv") signifies a turning back or returning to God. 3. Rejection of the Prophet The people's reaction to Jeremiah's message is one of rejection and hostility. In Jeremiah 26:8-9, the priests, prophets, and all the people seize Jeremiah, accusing him of deserving death for prophesying against the city. This theme underscores the common biblical motif of a prophet being rejected by those he is sent to warn. 4. Divine Protection Despite the threat to his life, Jeremiah experiences God's protection. In Jeremiah 26:24, Ahikam son of Shaphan supports Jeremiah, preventing him from being handed over to the people to be put to death. This theme reflects the biblical assurance of God's protection over His faithful servants. 5. Historical Precedent The chapter references past prophets, such as Micah, to illustrate how previous warnings were heeded, leading to repentance and divine mercy (Jeremiah 26:18-19). This theme emphasizes the importance of learning from history and the consequences of ignoring prophetic messages. 6. Judgment and Mercy The dual themes of judgment and mercy are evident as God presents the possibility of relenting from judgment if the people repent (Jeremiah 26:13). The Hebrew word for "relent" (נחם, "nacham") conveys a sense of compassion and willingness to forgive. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to stand firm in your faith, even when faced with opposition. Ask God for wisdom and love in delivering His truth to others. Seek God’s protection and guidance as you fulfill His calling in your life. Pray for a heart of repentance and obedience, both personally and within your community. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Jeremiah 26:1–6, how do we verify historically or archaeologically that God threatened the temple’s destruction? 2. In Jeremiah 26:7–9, could Jeremiah’s prophecy have been exaggerated or misunderstood, given the intense reaction of the people? 3. In Jeremiah 26:10–11, why is there no clear external evidence of formal court proceedings against Jeremiah outside the biblical record? 4. In Jeremiah 26:12–15, what proof exists that Jeremiah truly spoke God’s words and not his own personal agenda? 5. In Jeremiah 26:20–23, how do we reconcile the account of Uriah’s fate with the lack of corroborating records for his murder by King Jehoiakim? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do Jeremiah's actions in chapter 26 inspire you to act boldly in your own faith journey? 2. Compare and contrast the responses of Jeremiah and Uriah when faced with death threats. What can we learn from their reactions? 3. How does the reaction of the officials and people change from the beginning to the end of the chapter? What does this teach us about the power of a well-presented defense? 4. What does the reaction of the people to Jeremiah's prophecies reveal about their relationship with God? 5. In what ways does the story of Jeremiah 26 resonate with the current state of the world? 6. How can we apply Jeremiah's courage and faithfulness to our personal and professional lives? 7. How does the mention of Shiloh in verse 6 tie into the larger narrative of Israel's history? 8. What does this chapter reveal about the consequences of heeding or ignoring God's warnings? 9. How does Jeremiah 26 challenge your understanding of the role of a prophet? 10. What lessons does the story of Uriah teach about fear and faith? 11. How does this chapter shape our understanding of repentance and God's grace? 12. How do the elders use historical context to sway the opinion of the officials and the people? 13. Why do you think Ahikam son of Shaphan protected Jeremiah? What does this teach us about allyship and advocacy? 14. How does the concept of "innocent blood" play out in this chapter and what implications does it have for modern justice systems? 15. If you were in Jeremiah's position, how would you handle the backlash? 16. How might this chapter inform a Christian's response to persecution? 17. How does Jeremiah 26 inspire you to speak truth even when it's unpopular? 18. How can the experiences of Jeremiah and Uriah guide us in dealing with fear and threats in our lives? 19. If you were a part of the assembly hearing Jeremiah's prophecy, how would you have responded? 20. How does the story of Jeremiah 26 inspire you to defend your faith and beliefs in challenging situations? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions