Jeremiah 38:15

"If I tell you," Jeremiah replied, "you will surely put me to death. And even if I give you advice, you will not listen to me."

Study Bible

If I tell you
This phrase reflects Jeremiah's cautious approach in responding to King Zedekiah. The Hebrew root for "tell" is "נָגַד" (nagad), which means to declare or make known. Jeremiah is aware of the potential consequences of speaking truth to power. Historically, prophets often faced persecution for their messages, especially when they contradicted the desires of the ruling authorities. This highlights the courage required to speak God's truth, even when it is unwelcome.

will you not surely put me to death?
Jeremiah's question underscores the real danger he faced. The Hebrew word for "death" is "מוּת" (muth), which signifies physical death. In the context of ancient Judah, prophets who delivered unfavorable messages were often at risk of execution. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the cost of discipleship and the willingness to suffer for righteousness' sake, as seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

And even if I did give you advice
The phrase "give you advice" comes from the Hebrew "יָעַץ" (ya'ats), meaning to counsel or advise. Jeremiah is highlighting the futility of offering counsel to someone who is unwilling to heed it. This reflects a recurring biblical theme where God's people are called to listen and obey His word, yet often choose their own path, leading to their downfall.

you would not listen to me
The Hebrew root for "listen" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to hear or obey. This phrase captures the essence of Israel's recurring disobedience throughout the Old Testament. Despite God's repeated calls through His prophets, the people often turned a deaf ear. This serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of not just hearing God's word, but actively responding to it in faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah before the Babylonian conquest. He often sought Jeremiah's counsel but lacked the courage to act on it due to fear of his officials and the people.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Babylonians during this time. It represents the center of Jewish worship and the focal point of Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. Babylonian Siege
The historical context of this passage, where Babylon, under King Nebuchadnezzar, was besieging Jerusalem, leading to its eventual fall.

5. The Royal Officials
Influential figures in Zedekiah's court who opposed Jeremiah and sought to silence him, often through imprisonment or threats of death.

Teaching Points

Courage in Truth-Telling
Jeremiah exemplifies the courage required to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. Believers are called to stand firm in their convictions, trusting God for protection and vindication.

The Cost of Disobedience
Zedekiah's reluctance to heed Jeremiah's warnings serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignoring God's guidance. Obedience to God's word is crucial, even when it is difficult.

The Importance of Listening
Zedekiah's failure to listen to Jeremiah highlights the importance of being receptive to God's messages. Believers should cultivate a heart that is open to hearing and acting upon God's word.

Fear of Man vs. Fear of God
Zedekiah feared his officials more than he feared God, leading to his downfall. Christians are encouraged to prioritize their reverence for God over the opinions and threats of others.

Seeking Godly Counsel
While Zedekiah sought Jeremiah's counsel, he did not act on it. Believers should not only seek godly advice but also have the courage to follow it, trusting in God's wisdom and plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jeremiah's response to Zedekiah about the challenges of delivering difficult truths? How can we apply this in our own lives when faced with similar situations?

2. How does Zedekiah's fear of his officials compare to the fear of man that we might experience today? What scriptures can help us overcome this fear?

3. Reflect on a time when you sought advice but struggled to act on it. What steps can you take to ensure you follow through on godly counsel in the future?

4. How does the account of Zedekiah and Jeremiah illustrate the importance of obedience to God's word? What are some practical ways to cultivate a heart of obedience?

5. In what ways can we ensure that we are truly listening to God's messages in our lives, rather than just hearing them? How can we encourage others to do the same?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 37:17
Zedekiah previously sought Jeremiah's counsel, showing a pattern of seeking truth but failing to act on it.

2 Kings 25:1-7
Describes the fall of Jerusalem and Zedekiah's capture, highlighting the consequences of ignoring prophetic warnings.

Ezekiel 12:2
Speaks of a rebellious house with eyes to see but do not see, and ears to hear but do not hear, paralleling Zedekiah's inability to heed Jeremiah's warnings.

Matthew 13:14-15
Jesus references Isaiah's prophecy about people who hear but do not understand, similar to Zedekiah's situation.