How can we apply Jeremiah's example to our lives when facing persecution today? Reading the Moment “ And when Jeremiah had finished saying everything the LORD had commanded him to say to all the people, the priests and prophets and all the people seized him and said, ‘You must surely die!’ ” (Jeremiah 26:8) What We Learn from Jeremiah’s Response – He had just spoken the exact words God gave him (Jeremiah 26:2). – He did not soften the message to avoid conflict. – When threatened with death, he continued to appeal to God’s authority, not his own (Jeremiah 26:12–15). Applying His Example When We Face Pushback 1. Speak the whole counsel of God • Acts 20:27—Paul “did not shrink back.” • Resist the temptation to edit Scripture to fit cultural comfort. 2. Expect opposition without surprise • 2 Timothy 3:12—“all who desire to live a godly life…will be persecuted.” • 1 Peter 4:12—“do not be surprised.” 3. Anchor identity in God, not human approval • Jeremiah feared God more than priests or crowds (Jeremiah 26:13). • Matthew 10:28—fear Him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 4. Maintain respectful boldness • He addressed officials courteously yet firmly (Jeremiah 26:12). • Acts 4:19–20—Peter and John: “we cannot stop speaking.” 5. Leave vindication to the Lord • Jeremiah trusted God to determine his fate (Jeremiah 26:14–15). • Romans 12:19—“Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” 6. Persevere for the sake of the listeners • His warning aimed at their repentance, not their ruin (Jeremiah 26:3). • 2 Timothy 2:24–26—serve “so that God may grant them repentance.” Practical Steps for Today – Daily Scripture intake to know what God actually says. – Prayerful readiness: decide now to obey Christ before pressure comes. – Fellowship with believers who will encourage steadfastness (Hebrews 10:24–25). – Gentle, reasoned defense of the faith in conversations (1 Peter 3:15). – Trust God with outcomes; focus on faithfulness, not results. Encouraging Promise to Remember “ Blessed are you when people hate you…because of the Son of Man. Rejoice…and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.” (Luke 6:22–23) |
    |