Biblical Context:
The message to Shemaiah is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Jeremiah. Shemaiah was a false prophet during the time of the Babylonian exile, a period when the Israelites were taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar and exiled to Babylon. This event is a significant part of Israel's history, marking a time of judgment and eventual restoration as prophesied by Jeremiah.

Scriptural Reference:
The primary reference to Shemaiah is found in Jeremiah 29:24-32. This passage is part of a letter sent by the prophet Jeremiah to the exiles in Babylon, which includes a specific message concerning Shemaiah.

Historical Background:
Shemaiah the Nehelamite was among the exiles in Babylon. He opposed Jeremiah's prophecies, which called for the Israelites to settle in Babylon and seek the welfare of the city, as their captivity would last seventy years (Jeremiah 29:4-10). Shemaiah, however, contradicted Jeremiah's message, claiming that the exile would be short-lived and that the people should resist Babylonian rule.

The Message:
In Jeremiah 29:24-32, the Lord instructs Jeremiah to deliver a message to Shemaiah. The Berean Standard Bible records this as follows:

"To Shemaiah the Nehelamite you are to say: 'This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: Because you have sent letters in your own name to all the people in Jerusalem, to Zephaniah son of Maaseiah the priest, and to all the priests, saying: 'The LORD has appointed you priest in place of Jehoiada, to be the chief officer in the house of the LORD, responsible for any madman who acts like a prophet. You must put him in stocks and neck irons. So now, why have you not rebuked Jeremiah of Anathoth, who poses as a prophet among you? For he has sent to us in Babylon, claiming: It will be a long time. Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat their produce.'"

The Lord's message through Jeremiah condemns Shemaiah for his false prophecies and his attempt to undermine Jeremiah's authority. Shemaiah's actions were not only rebellious against Jeremiah but also against God's direct command.

Divine Judgment:
The Lord pronounces judgment on Shemaiah for his deceit and rebellion. Jeremiah 29:31-32 states:

"Send a message to all the exiles, saying: 'This is what the LORD says concerning Shemaiah the Nehelamite: Because Shemaiah has prophesied to you, though I did not send him, and has made you trust in a lie, this is what the LORD says: I will surely punish Shemaiah the Nehelamite and his descendants. He will have no one left among this people, nor will he see the good that I will do for My people,' declares the LORD, 'because he has preached rebellion against Me.'"

Theological Significance:
The message to Shemaiah highlights the seriousness of false prophecy and rebellion against God's word. It underscores the importance of discerning true prophetic messages and the consequences of leading God's people astray. The passage serves as a warning against false teachings and emphasizes the need for faithfulness to God's revealed word.

Lessons for Believers:
For contemporary believers, the account of Shemaiah serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against false teachings and to seek alignment with God's truth as revealed in Scripture. It also illustrates the importance of trusting in God's timing and plans, even when they do not align with personal desires or expectations.