Jeremiah 42:22

Now therefore, know for sure that by sword and famine and plague you will die in the place where you desire to go to reside."

Study Bible

Now therefore, know for sure
This phrase serves as a solemn warning and a call to certainty. The Hebrew root for "know" is יָדַע (yada), which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. In the context of Jeremiah's prophecy, it emphasizes the certainty and seriousness of God's message. The phrase "know for sure" underscores the irrevocable nature of the consequences that will follow disobedience. It is a divine assurance that the people cannot escape the outcomes of their choices, highlighting the importance of heeding God's word.

that by sword and famine and plague
These three calamities—sword, famine, and plague—are frequently mentioned together in the Old Testament as instruments of divine judgment (e.g., Ezekiel 5:12). The "sword" represents warfare and violence, "famine" signifies scarcity and hunger, and "plague" denotes disease and pestilence. Historically, these were common threats in the ancient Near East, often resulting from or leading to each other. Theologically, they symbolize the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against persistent rebellion. The use of these specific calamities serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of turning away from God's protection and guidance.

you will die
The inevitability of death in this context is a direct result of the people's disobedience. The Hebrew word for "die" is מוּת (muth), which conveys the finality and seriousness of the judgment. This is not merely a physical death but also signifies a spiritual separation from God's favor and blessing. The certainty of this outcome is a stark reminder of the wages of sin (Romans 6:23) and the importance of aligning one's life with God's will.

in the place where you desire to go to reside
This phrase highlights the people's intention to flee to Egypt for safety, despite God's clear instructions to remain in Judah. The Hebrew word for "desire" is חָפֵץ (chaphets), which indicates a strong inclination or longing. Their desire to go to Egypt reflects a lack of trust in God's provision and protection. Historically, Egypt was often seen as a place of refuge, but it also represented a return to bondage and reliance on human strength rather than divine guidance. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of following one's own desires over God's commands, reminding believers to seek God's will above personal inclinations.

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 Jewish people. He is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep sorrow over the fate of his people.

2. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who remained in Judah after the Babylonian conquest. They sought guidance from Jeremiah about whether to flee to Egypt for safety.

3. Egypt
The place where the remnant of Judah desired to flee, seeking refuge from the Babylonian threat. Historically, Egypt was often seen as a place of refuge but also a place of bondage and idolatry.

4. Sword, Famine, and Plague
These are the three forms of judgment that God declares will follow the remnant if they disobey His command to stay in Judah. They symbolize the comprehensive nature of divine judgment.

5. Babylonian Conquest
The historical backdrop of this passage, where Babylon, under King Nebuchadnezzar, conquered Jerusalem, leading to the exile of many Jews.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Word
The remnant's desire to flee to Egypt despite God's warning highlights the importance of trusting and obeying God's instructions, even when they seem counterintuitive.

Consequences of Disobedience
The promise of sword, famine, and plague serves as a stark reminder that disobedience to God leads to severe consequences. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment.

Trust in God's Protection
The remnant's fear of staying in Judah reflects a lack of trust in God's ability to protect them. Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God rather than in human solutions.

The Danger of Seeking Worldly Refuge
Egypt symbolizes reliance on worldly powers and solutions. Christians are reminded to seek refuge in God rather than in the temporary security offered by the world.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The passage affirms God's control over nations and events. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is sovereign, even in times of judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jeremiah 42:22 teach us about the importance of obedience to God's commands, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. How does the remnant's desire to flee to Egypt reflect our own tendencies to seek worldly solutions to spiritual problems?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are placing our trust in God rather than in human or worldly powers?

4. How do the consequences outlined in Jeremiah 42:22 (sword, famine, and plague) relate to the broader biblical theme of judgment for disobedience?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How can the lessons from Jeremiah 42:22 guide you in making choices that align with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience to God's commands. The threats of sword, famine, and plague in Jeremiah 42:22 echo the curses described in Deuteronomy for turning away from God.

Isaiah 31
This passage warns against relying on Egypt for help instead of trusting in God. It highlights the futility of seeking security in worldly powers rather than in God.

Ezekiel 14
This chapter discusses the inevitability of judgment when a nation turns away from God, emphasizing that even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were present, they could only save themselves by their righteousness.