Jeremiah 32:26

Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah:

Study Bible

Then
The word "then" serves as a temporal marker, indicating a sequence of events. In the context of Jeremiah 32, it follows a significant moment where Jeremiah has been instructed by God to purchase a field in Anathoth, symbolizing hope and future restoration for Israel. This word suggests a divine intervention at a critical juncture, emphasizing God's timely communication with His prophet.

the word
In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which signifies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force. In the biblical context, the "word" of the LORD is powerful and creative, as seen in Genesis where God speaks creation into existence. Here, it underscores the authority and effectiveness of God's communication, which is not merely informative but transformative.

of the LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the tetragrammaton YHWH, the sacred and personal name of God revealed to Moses. It signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His covenant relationship with Israel. This phrase assures Jeremiah and the readers of the divine origin and reliability of the message, rooted in God's unchanging character and His faithfulness to His promises.

came
The verb "came" indicates movement and arrival, suggesting that God's word is not static but actively seeks out His servants. This reflects the biblical theme of God initiating contact with humanity, reaching out to guide, instruct, and comfort His people. It highlights the accessibility and intentionality of God's communication.

to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, whose name means "Yahweh exalts" or "appointed by Yahweh," is a prophet called to deliver God's messages during a tumultuous period in Judah's history. His role as a prophet is both a privilege and a burden, as he often conveys messages of judgment and hope. This phrase personalizes the divine message, showing that God speaks to individuals, equipping them for their unique roles in His redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile of the Israelites. He is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over the sins of his people and the coming judgment.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His promises. In this context, He is the one communicating with Jeremiah.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant in biblical history as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. At this time, it is under threat from Babylonian forces.

4. Babylonian Siege
The historical event during which the Babylonian Empire, under King Nebuchadnezzar, besieged and eventually destroyed Jerusalem, leading to the exile of the Jewish people.

5. Prophecy
The act of conveying messages from God, often concerning future events or divine will. Jeremiah's prophecies were both warnings of judgment and promises of future restoration.

Teaching Points

God's Communication
God actively communicates with His people, often through His chosen prophets. Today, He speaks through His Word, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Jeremiah's role as a prophet during a time of national crisis teaches us to remain faithful and obedient to God's calling, even when circumstances are challenging.

Divine Sovereignty
The context of this verse reminds us of God's sovereignty over nations and history. He is in control, even when situations seem dire.

Hope in God's Promises
Despite the impending judgment, God's communication with Jeremiah includes promises of restoration and hope, encouraging us to trust in His future plans.

The Power of God's Word
Just as God's word came to Jeremiah with authority and purpose, we can trust that His Word today is powerful and effective in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Jeremiah's time enhance our comprehension of God's message in Jeremiah 32:26?

2. In what ways can we discern God's communication in our lives today, similar to how Jeremiah received the word of the LORD?

3. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Jeremiah 32:26 provide comfort in times of personal or national crisis?

4. What are some practical ways we can remain faithful to God's calling, as Jeremiah did, despite facing adversity?

5. How can we apply the assurance of God's promises, as seen in Jeremiah's prophecies, to our current life situations and future hopes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18:14
This verse asks, "Is anything too hard for the LORD?" It connects to Jeremiah 32:27, which follows the study verse, emphasizing God's omnipotence and ability to fulfill His promises despite human limitations.

Isaiah 55:11
This verse speaks about the effectiveness of God's word, which aligns with the idea that when God speaks to Jeremiah, His words have purpose and will accomplish what He intends.

Hebrews 1:1-2
These verses highlight how God spoke through the prophets in the past, including Jeremiah, and now speaks through His Son, Jesus Christ, showing the continuity and fulfillment of God's communication.