Jeremiah 30:1

This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD:

Study Bible

This is the word
The phrase "This is the word" signifies a divine communication, a message directly from God. In Hebrew, the term for "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force. It is a reminder of the power and authority of God's word, which is not merely informative but transformative. Throughout the Bible, God's word is depicted as a creative force, as seen in Genesis where God speaks the world into existence. This phrase sets the tone for the entire chapter, emphasizing that what follows is not merely human insight but divine revelation.

that came to Jeremiah
The phrase "that came to Jeremiah" indicates the personal nature of God's communication. Jeremiah, whose name means "Yahweh exalts," was chosen as a prophet to deliver God's messages to the people of Judah. This highlights the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where God entrusts His words to specific individuals. Historically, Jeremiah's ministry occurred during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by political upheaval and impending exile. This context underscores the urgency and importance of the message he received.

from the LORD
The phrase "from the LORD" identifies the source of the message as Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The use of "LORD" in all caps in the BSB indicates the translation of the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, the sacred and personal name of God. This emphasizes the authority and reliability of the message, as it comes from the One who is faithful and unchanging. In the conservative Christian perspective, this reaffirms the belief in the inerrancy and divine inspiration of Scripture, as it originates from God Himself.

saying
The word "saying" introduces the content of the divine message. It serves as a transition from the introduction to the actual words of God. In the Hebrew text, the word "amar" is used, which is a common term for speech but carries the weight of divine utterance in this context. This prepares the reader for the subsequent verses, which contain promises of restoration and hope for Israel. It is a reminder that God's words are not idle but purposeful, intended to instruct, correct, and encourage His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah was called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings and was marked by themes of judgment and restoration.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and plans through His prophets. In this context, He is the source of the message given to Jeremiah.

3. The Word of the LORD
This phrase signifies divine revelation. It is not merely human words but a message from God Himself, carrying authority and purpose.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment due to its disobedience and idolatry. Jeremiah's prophecies often addressed the people of Judah.

5. Prophetic Revelation
The event of God speaking to His prophet, which is a significant aspect of the biblical account, emphasizing the importance of listening to and obeying God's word.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
God's word, as delivered to Jeremiah, carries divine authority. Believers are called to recognize and submit to the authority of Scripture in their lives.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah were chosen to convey God's messages. Today, believers can learn from their example to be faithful in sharing God's truth with others.

Listening to God
Just as Jeremiah received the word of the LORD, Christians are encouraged to cultivate a listening heart, attentive to God's voice through Scripture and prayer.

Hope in Restoration
While Jeremiah's messages often included judgment, they also pointed to future restoration. Believers can find hope in God's promises of redemption and renewal.

The Importance of Obedience
The word given to Jeremiah required action and obedience. Similarly, Christians are called to respond to God's word with faith and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of Jeremiah as a prophet help us appreciate the messages he delivered?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are listening to and obeying the word of the LORD in our daily lives?

3. How does the authority of God's word, as seen in Jeremiah 30:1, influence our approach to reading and applying Scripture?

4. What parallels can we draw between the hope of restoration in Jeremiah's time and the hope offered through Jesus Christ?

5. How can we be faithful in sharing God's truth with others, following the example of prophets like Jeremiah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Timothy 3:16-17
This passage highlights the divine inspiration of Scripture, affirming that all Scripture, including the words given to Jeremiah, is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.

Hebrews 1:1-2
These verses discuss how God spoke to His people through the prophets in the past, and now speaks through His Son, Jesus Christ, showing the continuity and fulfillment of God's revelation.

Isaiah 55:11
This verse emphasizes the power and purpose of God's word, which will not return void but will accomplish what He desires, similar to the messages given to Jeremiah.