◄ Jeremiah 1 ►
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The Call of Jeremiah 1These are the words of Jeremiah son of Hilkiah, one of the priests in Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. 2The word of the LORD came to Jeremiah in the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah, 3and through the days of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, until the fifth month of the eleventh year of Zedekiah son of Josiah king of Judah, when the people of Jerusalem went into exile. 4The word of the LORD came to me, saying: 5“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” 6“Ah, Lord GOD,” I said, “I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!” 7But the LORD told me: “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ For to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak. 8Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD. 9Then the LORD reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. 10See, I have appointed you today over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant.” 11And the word of the LORD came to me, asking, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” “I see a branch of an almond tree,” I replied. 12“You have observed correctly,” said the LORD, “for I am watchinga over My word to accomplish it.” 13Again the word of the LORD came to me, asking, “What do you see?” “I see a boiling pot,” I replied, “and it is tilting toward us from the north.” 14Then the LORD said to me, “Disaster from the north will be poured out on all who live in the land. 15For I am about to summon all the clans and kingdoms of the north,” declares the LORD. “Their kings will come and set up their thrones at the entrance of the gates of Jerusalem. They will attack all her surrounding walls and all the other cities of Judah. 16I will pronounce My judgments against them for all their wickedness, because they have forsaken Me, and they have burned incense to other gods and worshiped the works of their own hands. 17Get yourself ready.b Stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not be intimidated by them, or I will terrify you before them. 18Now behold, this day I have made you like a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls against the whole land—against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land. 19They will fight against you but will never overcome you, since I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD. Footnotes: 12 a The Hebrew for watching sounds like the Hebrew for almond tree. 17 b Hebrew Gird up your loins. 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 1 Summary The Call of Jeremiah Verses 1–3 – Historical Setting Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, lives in Anathoth in Benjamin. His ministry begins in the thirteenth year of King Josiah (627 BC) and continues through the exile of 597 BC, spanning the last days of Judah’s monarchy. Verses 4–5 – Divine Selection The word of the LORD comes: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you… I appointed you a prophet to the nations” (v 5). Jeremiah learns that his life’s purpose predates his birth. Verses 6–8 – Jeremiah’s Objection and God’s Reassurance Feeling too young and inexperienced, Jeremiah says, “I do not know how to speak” (v 6). God counters, “Do not be afraid… for I am with you” (v 8), promising protection wherever he goes. Verses 9–10 – Empowered to Uproot and Plant The LORD touches Jeremiah’s mouth: “I have put My words in your mouth” (v 9). His mission covers six verbs—uproot, tear down, destroy, overthrow, build, plant—signaling both judgment and hope. Verses 11–12 – Vision of the Almond Branch Jeremiah sees a “branch of an almond tree” (v 11). God replies, “I am watching to fulfill My word” (v 12). In Hebrew, almond (shaqed) sounds like “watching” (shoqed), a wordplay promising vigilance. Verses 13–16 – Vision of the Boiling Pot A tilted pot from the north tips scalding judgment toward Judah. Enemy nations (later identified as Babylon) will “pronounce My judgments” (v 16) against idolatry and forsaken worship. Verses 17–19 – Fortified Prophet Jeremiah must “gird up your loins” (v 17). God makes him “a fortified city, an iron pillar” (v 18). Though kings, priests, and people fight him, “they will not overcome you, for I am with you” (v 19). Jeremiah 1 serves as the introductory chapter to the book of Jeremiah, presenting the divine calling and commissioning of Jeremiah as a prophet. It unfolds the divine predestination of Jeremiah, the communication of his prophetic mission, the revelation of upcoming trials, and the assurance of God's protection. It's a powerful testament to God's providential plan, where He equips the chosen ones to perform His works. Historical Background • Timeframe: 627–586 BC, from Josiah’s reforms to Jerusalem’s fall. • Political climate: Assyria is fading; Babylon is rising; Egypt maneuvers for influence. Judah sits in the middle. • Religious landscape: High-place worship and idols persist despite Josiah’s cleanup (2 Kings 23). Jeremiah’s calls to repent collide with entrenched habits. Archaeological Insights • Anathoth: Excavations at et-Tell have unearthed Iron Age remains consistent with a Levitical town east of Jerusalem, supporting Jeremiah’s priestly lineage (Joshua 21:17-18). • Bullae (seal impressions) bearing names of Judean officials mentioned in Jeremiah (e.g., Gemariah son of Shaphan) show the book’s close fit with real people and offices of the late 7th century BC. • Babylonian chronicles confirm Nebuchadnezzar’s campaigns (597 BC, 586 BC), matching the boiling-pot image of northern invasion. The Call and God’s Foreknowledge • “Before I formed you… I knew you” (1:5) echoes Psalm 139:13-16, underscoring God’s intimate design of every life. • Galatians 1:15 shows Paul using similar language, indicating continuity of God’s personal commissioning from Old to New Testament. • Jeremiah’s youth does not disqualify him; God’s presence outweighs self-perceived inadequacy (cf. 1 Timothy 4:12). Prophetic Authority and Symbolism • Touching Jeremiah’s mouth (1:9) parallels Isaiah 6:7 (coal to the lips) and Ezekiel 3:2-4 (scroll eaten), illustrating that a prophet’s authority rests on God-given words. • Six action verbs (v 10) reveal balance: four destructive, two constructive—judgment precedes restoration. This pattern continues through the book, climaxing in the New Covenant promise (Jeremiah 31:31-34). • Almond branch: First tree to bloom in late winter, hinting that God’s word is already sprouting; His promises are near to fulfillment. Opposition and Divine Protection • Fortified imagery (city, pillar, bronze wall) anticipates relentless hostility. Yet Jeremiah’s life, though often endangered (Jeremiah 26:7-15; 37:11-16), is preserved—evidence of the vow in 1:19. • Matthew 10:16-20 echoes the same assurance for disciples: God provides words and protection amid persecution. Themes That Resonate Today • God’s purpose for individuals begins before birth; each person’s life is significant. • Age or perceived weakness is no barrier when God calls. • Faithfulness may invite resistance, but divine backing remains stronger than human opposition. • Judgment and mercy always travel together in God’s plan—He tears down idols to plant true worship. Links to Other Scriptures • Predestination language: Ephesians 2:10—created for good works prepared beforehand. • Watching motif: 2 Chron 16:9—“The eyes of the LORD roam throughout the earth.” • North as threat: Jeremiah 4:6, 6:1 reinforce the boiling-pot vision. • Covenant unfaithfulness: Leviticus 26 outlines curses Jeremiah now sees approaching; yet Leviticus 26:40-45 holds the promise of restoration mirrored later in Jeremiah 29–33. Practical Takeaways • Listen for God’s specific assignments; they may come unexpectedly but fit His larger story. • Do not let self-doubt silence obedience. • Expect God both to confront sin and to offer hope—He uproots to replant healthier growth. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 139:13-16 This passage echoes the theme of God's intimate knowledge and purpose for us, as He forms us in the womb. Exodus 4:10-12 Moses' reluctance and God's assurance parallel Jeremiah's initial hesitation and divine empowerment. Matthew 28:20 Jesus' promise to be with His disciples always reinforces the assurance of God's presence. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Highlights the power and purpose of Scripture, similar to God's words placed in Jeremiah's mouth. Teaching Points God's Sovereign Call Jeremiah 1:5 states, Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations. This verse highlights God's foreknowledge and purpose for each individual, emphasizing that our lives are part of His divine plan. Human Inadequacy and Divine Empowerment Jeremiah initially protests, Ah, Lord GOD, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a child! (Jeremiah 1:6). Yet, God reassures him, demonstrating that He equips those He calls. God's Presence and Protection In Jeremiah 1:8, God promises, Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you. This assurance of God's presence is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, providing comfort and courage. The Power of God's Word God touches Jeremiah's mouth and says, Behold, I have put My words in your mouth (Jeremiah 1:9). This signifies the authority and power of God's Word, which Jeremiah is to proclaim. A Mission of Judgment and Restoration Jeremiah's mission involves both tearing down and building up (Jeremiah 1:10), reflecting the dual aspects of God's message—judgment for sin and the hope of restoration. Practical Applications Trust in God's Plan Recognize that God has a purpose for your life, even if you feel unprepared or inadequate. Trust that He will equip you for the tasks He assigns. Rely on God's Presence In moments of fear or uncertainty, remember that God is with you, providing strength and protection. Speak God's Truth Boldly Like Jeremiah, be willing to speak the truth of God's Word, knowing that it carries His authority and power. Embrace Both Correction and Hope Understand that God's messages may include both correction and hope, and be open to His work in your life to refine and restore you. People 1. Jeremiah The primary figure in the book, Jeremiah is called by God to be a prophet. He is the son of Hilkiah, one of the priests from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin. His prophetic ministry is marked by messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. The Hebrew name "Yirmeyahu" (יִרְמְיָהוּ) means "Yahweh will exalt" or "Yahweh throws." 2. The LORD (Yahweh) The divine being who calls and commissions Jeremiah as a prophet. In the Hebrew text, the name used is "YHWH" (יהוה), often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. Yahweh is depicted as the sovereign God who knows Jeremiah before his birth and appoints him to his prophetic role. 3. Hilkiah Mentioned as the father of Jeremiah, Hilkiah is a priest from Anathoth. His name in Hebrew, "Chilqiyahu" (חִלְקִיָּהוּ), means "my portion is Yahweh." Places 1. Anathoth Anathoth is mentioned in Jeremiah 1:1 as the hometown of Jeremiah. It is a Levitical city in the territory of Benjamin. The Hebrew root for Anathoth is "עֲנָתוֹת" (Anatot), which is associated with the priestly lineage, as Jeremiah was the son of Hilkiah, one of the priests there. 2. Jerusalem Jerusalem is referenced in Jeremiah 1:3 as the location where the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah. It is the central city of Judah and the spiritual and political heart of the Israelite nation. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often seen as the city of peace and the dwelling place of God. Events 1. Introduction of Jeremiah The chapter begins by introducing Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah, one of the priests from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin (Jeremiah 1:1). This establishes his priestly lineage and geographical origin. 2. The Word of the LORD Comes to Jeremiah The word of the LORD comes to Jeremiah during the reigns of Josiah, Jehoiakim, and Zedekiah, kings of Judah, indicating the historical context and the period of his prophetic ministry (Jeremiah 1:2-3). 3. Jeremiah's Divine Calling God declares to Jeremiah, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). This emphasizes God's sovereign choice and preordained purpose for Jeremiah. 4. Jeremiah's Objection Jeremiah expresses his inadequacy by saying, "Ah, Lord GOD! I do not know how to speak, for I am only a child" (Jeremiah 1:6). This reflects his humility and sense of unpreparedness. 5. God's Reassurance The LORD reassures Jeremiah, saying, "Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’ for to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak" (Jeremiah 1:7). God promises His presence and protection. 6. Divine Empowerment God touches Jeremiah's mouth and says, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth" (Jeremiah 1:9). This symbolizes the divine empowerment and authority given to Jeremiah to speak God's words. 7. Commissioning as a Prophet God appoints Jeremiah over nations and kingdoms "to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant" (Jeremiah 1:10). This outlines the dual nature of his prophetic mission—both destructive and constructive. 8. Vision of the Almond Branch Jeremiah sees a vision of an almond branch, and the LORD explains, "You have observed correctly, for I am watching over My word to accomplish it" (Jeremiah 1:11-12). The almond tree, "shaqed" in Hebrew, is a play on words with "shoqed," meaning watching, indicating God's vigilance. 9. Vision of the Boiling Pot Jeremiah sees a boiling pot tilting away from the north, symbolizing impending disaster from the north (Jeremiah 1:13-14). This foreshadows the coming invasion by Babylon. 10. Divine Warning and Assurance God warns of judgment against Judah due to their idolatry and rebellion but assures Jeremiah of His protection, saying, "They will fight against you but will never overcome you, since I am with you to rescue you" (Jeremiah 1:19). This highlights both the certainty of opposition and the promise of divine deliverance. Lessons from Jeremiah 1 1. God Knows You Personally Before you were even a thought in your parents' minds, God knew you. Jeremiah 1:5 says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart." This is a powerful reminder that you are not an accident. You are part of a divine plan, crafted with purpose and intention. Embrace this truth and let it guide your daily walk. 2. You Are Set Apart for a Purpose Jeremiah was appointed as a prophet to the nations, and you too have a unique calling. "I appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). Whether your mission field is your workplace, your home, or your community, God has set you apart to make a difference. Seek His guidance to discover and fulfill your purpose. 3. Do Not Be Afraid of Your Calling When God calls you, it can be intimidating. Jeremiah felt inadequate, saying, "Ah, Lord GOD! I do not know how to speak, for I am only a child" (Jeremiah 1:6). Yet, God reassures us that He equips those He calls. Trust in His strength, not your own, and step boldly into your calling. 4. God Will Equip You God promises to equip you for the tasks He assigns. "Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’ for to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak" (Jeremiah 1:7). He provides the words, the wisdom, and the courage you need. Lean on Him, and He will guide your steps. 5. God Is with You Always Facing challenges can be daunting, but remember, "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you" (Jeremiah 1:8). God's presence is a constant in your life. No matter the obstacles, He walks beside you, offering protection and support. 6. God’s Word Is Powerful God touched Jeremiah's mouth and said, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth" (Jeremiah 1:9). The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. When you speak His truth, it has the power to transform lives. Immerse yourself in Scripture and let it flow through you. 7. God’s Plans Are Unstoppable God's plans will come to pass, regardless of human resistance. "I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant" (Jeremiah 1:10). Trust in His sovereignty and know that His purposes will prevail, even when circumstances seem bleak. 8. Be Ready for Opposition Jeremiah faced opposition, and so will you. But take heart, for God says, "They will fight against you but will never overcome you, since I am with you to rescue you" (Jeremiah 1:19). Stand firm in your faith, knowing that God is your defender and will see you through every trial. 9. God’s Timing Is Perfect God’s timing is impeccable. He told Jeremiah, "I am watching over My word to accomplish it" (Jeremiah 1:12). Trust that He knows the perfect moment to act. Be patient and wait on the Lord, for His timing is always right. 10. Embrace Your Identity in Christ Jeremiah’s identity was rooted in God’s calling. Likewise, your identity is found in Christ. You are a child of God, loved and chosen. Let this truth shape your life and give you confidence as you navigate the world. Remember, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). Embrace who you are in Him and live boldly. Topics 1. The Call of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:1-5) This section introduces Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah, and his calling as a prophet. The word of the LORD comes to him, stating, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). The Hebrew word for "knew" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate, purposeful knowledge, indicating God's sovereign plan for Jeremiah. 2. Jeremiah's Reluctance and God's Reassurance (Jeremiah 1:6-8) Jeremiah expresses his inadequacy, saying, "Ah, Lord GOD! I do not know how to speak, for I am only a child" (Jeremiah 1:6). The LORD reassures him, "Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’... Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you" (Jeremiah 1:7-8). The Hebrew word for "deliver" (נָצַל, natsal) conveys the idea of rescue and protection. 3. The Divine Commission (Jeremiah 1:9-10) God touches Jeremiah's mouth and says, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth" (Jeremiah 1:9). Jeremiah is appointed over nations and kingdoms "to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant" (Jeremiah 1:10). The Hebrew verbs used here (e.g., נָתַשׁ, natash for "uproot") emphasize the comprehensive nature of Jeremiah's prophetic mission. 4. The Vision of the Almond Branch (Jeremiah 1:11-12) Jeremiah sees an almond branch, and the LORD explains, "You have observed correctly, for I am watching over My word to accomplish it" (Jeremiah 1:12). The Hebrew word for "almond" (שָׁקֵד, shaqed) is a play on words with "watching" (שָׁקַד, shaqad), highlighting God's vigilance in fulfilling His word. 5. The Vision of the Boiling Pot (Jeremiah 1:13-16) Jeremiah sees a boiling pot tilting from the north, symbolizing impending disaster from the northern kingdoms. God declares, "I will pronounce My judgments against them for all their wickedness" (Jeremiah 1:16). The imagery underscores the severity and inevitability of divine judgment. 6. The Charge to Stand Firm (Jeremiah 1:17-19) God commands Jeremiah to "get yourself ready" and "stand up and tell them everything that I command you" (Jeremiah 1:17). Despite opposition, God promises, "They will fight against you but will never overcome you, since I am with you to rescue you" (Jeremiah 1:19). The Hebrew word for "rescue" (נָצַל, natsal) is reiterated, emphasizing God's protective presence. Themes 1. Divine Calling and Election Jeremiah 1:5 states, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations." This theme emphasizes God's sovereign choice and foreknowledge, highlighting the Hebrew root "yada" (יָדַע), meaning to know intimately, which underscores God's personal and purposeful calling of Jeremiah. 2. Human Inadequacy and Divine Empowerment In Jeremiah 1:6, Jeremiah expresses his inadequacy: "Ah, Lord GOD, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!" This theme reflects the common biblical motif of human weakness contrasted with God's empowerment. The Hebrew word "naar" (נַעַר) for "child" suggests youth or inexperience, yet God equips those He calls. 3. God's Assurance and Presence Jeremiah 1:8 provides reassurance: "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you," declares the LORD. This theme highlights God's promise of His presence and protection, a recurring assurance found throughout Scripture, emphasizing the Hebrew "im" (עִם) for "with," indicating God's continual presence. 4. Prophetic Authority and Responsibility In Jeremiah 1:9-10, God touches Jeremiah's mouth and says, "I have put My words in your mouth. See, I have appointed you today over nations and kingdoms..." This theme underscores the authority and responsibility bestowed upon Jeremiah as God's spokesperson. The Hebrew "natan" (נָתַן) for "appointed" conveys the idea of being given a specific role or duty. 5. Judgment and Restoration Jeremiah 1:10 also speaks of the dual role of the prophet: "to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant." This theme reflects the dual aspects of God's message through Jeremiah—judgment against sin and the hope of restoration. The Hebrew verbs "nata" (נָטַע) for "plant" and "banah" (בָּנָה) for "build" suggest renewal and future hope. 6. Vision and Revelation In Jeremiah 1:11-12, God shows Jeremiah a vision of an almond branch and explains, "You have observed correctly, for I am watching over My word to accomplish it." This theme highlights the role of visions in prophetic revelation and the certainty of God's word. The Hebrew "shaqed" (שָׁקֵד) for "almond" is a play on "shoqed" (שֹׁקֵד), meaning "watching," emphasizing God's vigilance. 7. Imminent Judgment Jeremiah 1:13-16 describes a boiling pot tilting from the north, symbolizing impending judgment. This theme underscores the certainty and imminence of God's judgment against Judah due to their idolatry and disobedience. The imagery serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. 8. Courage and Obedience in the Face of Opposition Finally, in Jeremiah 1:17-19, God commands Jeremiah to stand firm: "Get yourself ready! Stand up and tell them everything that I command you." This theme emphasizes the need for courage and obedience despite opposition, with God's promise of making Jeremiah "a fortified city" (v. 18), symbolizing divine strength and protection. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Sovereignty Praise God for His knowledge and purpose for your life, even before you were born. Courage to Accept God's Call Pray for the courage to embrace God's calling, trusting in His equipping and presence. Boldness to Proclaim God's Word Ask for boldness to speak God's truth with love and authority, regardless of opposition. Openness to God's Refining Work Seek a heart open to both correction and restoration, allowing God to work in and through you for His glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. Jeremiah 1:5 – How can God claim to know Jeremiah before his conception in a way that defies scientific understanding? 2. Jeremiah 1:5 – Is there any historical or archeological evidence that supports this unique divine commissioning? 3. Jeremiah 1:6–7 – How could Jeremiah’s youth and inexperience align with earlier Israelite traditions regarding prophets? 4. Jeremiah 1:9 – Does the idea of God directly touching Jeremiah’s mouth contradict other biblical accounts of prophetic calling? 5. Jeremiah 1:10 – Why is there no clear historical record of Jeremiah achieving the massive global influence implied in this verse? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jeremiah's calling resonate with your personal experience of discerning God's purpose for your life? 2. In what ways do you relate to Jeremiah's initial hesitation to his divine calling? 3. How does the theme of divine predestination manifest in your own spiritual journey? 4. What reassurances does God give Jeremiah to overcome his fear and doubt? How do these apply in your life? 5. How can you interpret the symbols of the almond tree and the boiling pot in today's context? 6. How might God's words to Jeremiah about His protection inspire courage in facing your personal trials? 7. How can Jeremiah's prophetic commission relate to our calling as Christians in the modern world? 8. How can the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in Jeremiah's commission, influence our approach to life's challenges? 9. What do the reactions of Jeremiah teach us about human response to God's calling? 10. How can Jeremiah's experience inspire us to embrace God's plans, even when they seem daunting or beyond our abilities? 11. How does Jeremiah 1 shape your understanding of prophecy and prophethood? 12. In what ways do you think God equips His chosen ones today for their divine missions? 13. How can you apply God's assurance to Jeremiah in your everyday life? 14. How does God's reassurance of His protection apply to modern day fears and uncertainties? 15. What does Jeremiah's mission to "uproot and to build" say about the dual nature of God's word and how does this apply today? 16. In what ways can we be like Jeremiah, facing opposition for standing by our faith and convictions? 17. What aspects of Jeremiah's call speak to you the most? Why? 18. How can we use God's word as Jeremiah did to bring about change in our societies? 19. What lessons can we draw from Jeremiah's life about resilience and persistence? 20. In what ways can Jeremiah's relationship with God model our own relationship with Him? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions