What can we learn from Zedekiah's inquiry about God's word in Jeremiah 37:17? Setting the Scene “Then King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah the prophet and received him at the third entrance to the house of the LORD. ‘I am going to ask you something,’ said the king to Jeremiah. ‘Do not hide anything from me.’ ” (Jeremiah 37:17) What Zedekiah Did Right • He sought the prophet of God, recognizing Jeremiah as the true spokesman of the LORD. • He asked for the unfiltered word—“Do not hide anything from me”—showing at least a surface desire for truth. • He approached privately, which hints at personal concern rather than mere public posturing. Where Zedekiah Fell Short • No repentance accompanied his inquiry (Jeremiah 34:2–5 shows earlier defiance). • He wanted counsel without cost—looking for reassurance, not transformation (cf. 2 Timothy 4:3–4). • His secrecy betrayed fear of people more than fear of God (Proverbs 29:25). • Hearing did not lead to obedience; he ignored Jeremiah’s warning and disaster followed (Jeremiah 39:4–7). Timeless Lessons for Our Walk • Seeking God’s word is essential, but submission to that word is the true test (James 1:22). • God’s messengers must speak plainly even when pressured to soften the message (Jeremiah 1:17; 2 Timothy 4:2). • Private interest in Scripture must become public obedience; hidden faith quickly falters (Matthew 10:32–33). • A heart that asks, “Do not hide anything from me,” must also say, “I will hide nothing from You” (Psalm 139:23–24). • Leadership carries added accountability; ignoring God’s voice invites devastating consequences for many, not just oneself (Luke 12:48). Related Scriptures • Proverbs 28:13 — “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” • Hebrews 4:12 — “For the word of God is living and active… discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” • John 14:23 — “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word.” • 1 Kings 22:13–14 — Micaiah’s resolve under pressure mirrors Jeremiah’s unwavering truth-telling. Takeaway Points to Remember • God’s word, once sought, demands wholehearted obedience. • Fear of people suffocates faith; reverence for God liberates obedience. • Truth shared in secret must be lived in the open. • Ignoring divine warnings never ends well; acting on them brings life and blessing. |
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