What is the meaning of Jeremiah 16:1? Then - The opening “Then” anchors the verse to the flow of chapter 15, where God has just announced severe judgment yet promised to make Jeremiah His fortified wall (Jeremiah 15:20-21). - It marks a fresh moment of revelation, the same way “Then the word of the LORD came” introduces new directives in 1 Kings 17:8 and Ezekiel 12:1. - The timing reminds us that God speaks at decisive points, guiding His servant step by step (Psalm 32:8). the word of the LORD - This phrase underlines divine authorship; Jeremiah is passing along God’s word, not personal opinion (Jeremiah 1:4; 2 Timothy 3:16). - Like the fiery hammer of Jeremiah 23:29, God’s word carries absolute authority and power to accomplish what He sends it to do (Isaiah 55:11). - Repetition of this formula throughout the book (Jeremiah 7:1; 11:1) reassures us of Scripture’s reliability and literal truth. came to me - Revelation is personal; the Almighty singles out Jeremiah, echoing the prophet’s call in Jeremiah 1:2. - Similar language appears with Samuel (1 Samuel 3:21) and Hosea (Hosea 1:1), highlighting that genuine prophecy begins with God initiating contact. - The phrase underscores Jeremiah’s obedience—he remains available so God’s word can “come” again and again (Jeremiah 25:3). saying - “Saying” signals that specific instructions are about to follow—here, the startling command not to marry or raise children (Jeremiah 16:2-3). - God often precedes hard assignments with this simple verb—“saying”—as in Jonah 1:2 or Isaiah 6:9, affirming that He communicates clearly. - The forthcoming words will explain and justify prophetic actions, showing that every directive is purposeful, not arbitrary (Amos 3:7). summary Jeremiah 16:1 prepares us for a new, authoritative message from God, delivered at a critical juncture. The sequence—Then " the word of the LORD " came to me " saying—highlights timing, divine source, personal reception, and forthcoming content. Together they assure us that what follows is God’s literal, trustworthy revelation, given to guide both Jeremiah and the people toward repentance and hope. |
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