How can Jeremiah's attitude in Jeremiah 28:6 guide our reactions to false teachings? Setting the Scene Jeremiah is facing Hananiah, a prophet who promises swift deliverance from Babylon. Hananiah’s words sound wonderful—but they are counterfeit. Jeremiah answers, “Amen! May the LORD do so! May the LORD fulfill the words you have prophesied…” (Jeremiah 28:6) Then he calmly adds that only time—and God’s own standard for prophecy—will show who is speaking the truth (vv. 8-9). Jeremiah’s Heart in Verse 6 • Hopeful: He truly wants blessing for God’s people. • Courteous: He doesn’t lash out; he responds with “Amen.” • Discerning: He knows God has said the opposite (Jeremiah 27:6-7), yet he waits for God’s validation. • Anchored: His confidence rests in God’s unchanging word, not in popular predictions. Lessons for Our Reactions to False Teaching • Desire the best without compromising the truth – “Love… rejoices with the truth” (1 Corinthians 13:6). • Stay respectful while remaining firm – “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). • Test everything by Scripture, not sentiment – “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • Wait for God’s confirmation rather than rushing to condemn or to embrace – “The prophet who prophesies peace will be recognized as one truly sent by the LORD only if his prediction comes true” (Jeremiah 28:9). • Keep the long view—truth endures – “The word of the Lord endures forever” (1 Peter 1:25). • Stand ready to correct when error is exposed – “Reprove, rebuke, exhort with complete patience and instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2-4). Practical Steps for Today 1. Measure every teaching against the Bible (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21). 2. Respond first with hopeful courtesy—say, “If only that were true!”—while immediately opening Scripture to verify. 3. Keep praying for those in error, but guard the flock (Jude 3-4). 4. If the teaching fails the test, clearly but gently warn others (Galatians 1:8-9). 5. Maintain personal humility; we all need correction (James 1:19-21). Jeremiah shows us that it is possible to combine warm hope, steady courtesy, and unwavering allegiance to God’s revealed truth. |
    |