Jeremiah 11:18

And the LORD informed me, so I knew. Then You showed me their deeds.

Study Bible

And the LORD informed me
The phrase begins with "And the LORD," emphasizing the divine source of Jeremiah's knowledge. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, highlighting His personal relationship with His people. "Informed" comes from the Hebrew root "yada," meaning to know or to reveal. This indicates that the knowledge Jeremiah received was not from human insight but a divine revelation. In the context of a prophet's life, this underscores the intimate communication between God and His chosen messenger, affirming the authenticity and authority of Jeremiah's prophetic ministry.

so I knew
The phrase "so I knew" reflects the result of the divine revelation. The Hebrew word "yada" is again used here, emphasizing the certainty and clarity of the knowledge imparted to Jeremiah. This knowledge was not speculative or uncertain; it was a direct and clear understanding given by God. In the broader biblical context, this highlights the role of prophets as recipients of divine truth, tasked with conveying God's messages to His people. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine wisdom and understanding in our own lives.

Then You showed me
The transition "Then" indicates a sequence of events, suggesting that after being informed, Jeremiah was given further insight. "You showed me" implies a visual or experiential revelation, where God not only tells but also demonstrates or illustrates the truth to Jeremiah. The Hebrew root "ra'ah" for "showed" suggests seeing or perceiving, indicating that Jeremiah's understanding was deepened through this divine demonstration. This reflects the multifaceted ways God communicates with His prophets, ensuring they fully grasp the message they are to deliver.

their deeds
The phrase "their deeds" refers to the actions or behaviors of the people, specifically those who were plotting against Jeremiah. The Hebrew word "ma'aseh" denotes works or actions, often with a moral or ethical connotation. In the context of Jeremiah's ministry, this revelation of "their deeds" exposes the wickedness and rebellion of the people against God's messenger. Historically, this highlights the persistent opposition faced by prophets, who often stood alone against widespread corruption and idolatry. It serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of faithfulness to God's calling and the reality of spiritual warfare.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his lamentations and deep emotional connection to his prophetic mission.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who reveals His will and plans to His prophets. In this context, He is the one who informs Jeremiah of the plots against him.

3. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's prophecies, often resistant and rebellious against God's commands. They are the ones whose deeds are revealed to Jeremiah.

4. The Plot Against Jeremiah
The specific event where God reveals to Jeremiah the malicious intentions of his fellow countrymen, who are plotting against his life.

5. Anathoth
Jeremiah's hometown, where some of the conspirators against him were from, highlighting the personal betrayal he faced.

Teaching Points

Divine Revelation
God reveals hidden truths to His servants. Just as He informed Jeremiah of the plots against him, God can provide insight and guidance to believers today through His Word and Spirit.

God's Protection
Despite human schemes, God's protection is over His chosen ones. Believers can trust in God's sovereignty and care, even when facing opposition.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Jeremiah's experience teaches us to remain faithful to God's calling, even when facing betrayal or danger. Our commitment to God's mission should not waver in the face of adversity.

The Reality of Spiritual Opposition
Just as Jeremiah faced opposition, believers today should be aware of spiritual battles and the reality of opposition when standing for truth.

The Importance of Prayer
In light of opposition, prayer becomes a vital tool for seeking God's guidance and protection, as seen in Jeremiah's life and other biblical examples.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's revelation to Jeremiah in 11:18 demonstrate His omniscience and care for His prophets?

2. In what ways can believers today experience God's guidance and protection similar to Jeremiah's experience?

3. How does the plot against Jeremiah reflect the broader theme of opposition to God's messengers throughout the Bible?

4. What practical steps can we take to remain faithful to God's calling in the face of adversity and opposition?

5. How can the example of Jeremiah encourage us to deepen our prayer life, especially when facing challenges or threats?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:5
This verse connects to Jeremiah 11:18 by emphasizing God's intimate knowledge and calling of Jeremiah even before his birth, underscoring the divine revelation and protection over his life.

Psalm 64:1-2
This passage parallels the theme of God revealing the secret plots of the wicked, as seen in Jeremiah 11:18, and serves as a prayer for protection against such schemes.

Acts 23:12-22
The plot against Paul mirrors the plot against Jeremiah, showing how God's servants often face opposition but are protected and informed by God.