What does it mean to "stand up and tell them everything" God commands? Context of Jeremiah 1:17 • Judah is spiraling into idolatry; exile looms. • God singles out a young Jeremiah to confront kings, priests, and people. • The verse sets the prophet’s marching orders: “Now therefore, get yourself ready. Stand up and tell them everything that I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them.” Key Words Worth Noticing • “Get yourself ready” — literally gird up your loins; tighten the belt for strenuous action. • “Stand up” — assume a visible, public posture; refuse to cower. • “Tell them everything” — no omissions, no edits, no soft-pedaling. • “Do not be terrified” — courage is commanded, not optional. What “stand up” Looks Like • Physical posture that reflects inner resolve (Ephesians 6:14). • Public identification with God’s truth, even when culture is hostile (1 Kings 18:21). • Refusal to remain silent when silence would imply agreement (Acts 4:19-20). What “tell them everything” Requires • Full disclosure of God’s revealed will (Acts 20:27). • Plain speech—clarity over cleverness (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). • Integrity: the messenger’s life must line up with the message (1 Timothy 4:16). • No trimming the parts people dislike (Ezekiel 2:7; Jeremiah 26:2). Practical Outworking for Believers Today • Daily readiness: Scripture internalized so truth is on the tongue. • Courageous moments: speaking biblical convictions in classrooms, boardrooms, living rooms. • Whole-counsel witness: gospel of grace joined to calls for repentance and obedience (Matthew 28:20). • Dependence on the Spirit: boldness supplied from above, not self-confidence (Acts 4:31). Encouragement and Assurance • God equips the one He calls (Jeremiah 1:9; 2 Corinthians 3:5-6). • Obedience, not audience approval, measures success (Galatians 1:10). • Divine protection is promised, though not always physical ease (Jeremiah 1:18-19). Further Scriptural Reinforcement • 2 Timothy 4:2 — “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • 1 Corinthians 16:13 — “Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong.” • Psalm 118:6 — “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Summary To “stand up and tell them everything” is to ready oneself, take a fearless public stance, and deliver the undiluted message God has spoken, trusting Him for courage, clarity, and ultimate vindication. |
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