Jeremiah 16:21

"Therefore behold, I will inform them, and this time I will make them know My power and My might; then they will know that My name is the LORD.

Study Bible

Therefore behold, I will inform them
This phrase indicates a divine declaration, emphasizing God's intention to reveal something significant to the people. The use of "behold" serves as a call to attention, suggesting the importance of the forthcoming message. In the context of Jeremiah, God often communicates through the prophet to warn or instruct the Israelites. This aligns with the prophetic tradition where God reveals His will and plans to His people, often as a response to their disobedience or idolatry.

and this time I will make them know My power and My might;
Here, God promises a demonstration of His power and might, suggesting a direct intervention in the affairs of the people. Historically, this can be seen in the context of the Babylonian exile, where God's power was manifested through the judgment and eventual restoration of Israel. The emphasis on "this time" implies a definitive action that will leave no doubt about God's sovereignty. This can be connected to other instances in the Bible where God displays His power, such as the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7-12) or the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14).

then they will know that My name is the LORD.
The phrase underscores the ultimate purpose of God's actions: to ensure that His people recognize and acknowledge Him as the LORD. The use of "My name is the LORD" reflects the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where knowing God's name implies understanding His character and authority. This is reminiscent of God's self-revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where He declares, "I AM WHO I AM." The acknowledgment of God's name is a recurring theme in the prophets, emphasizing the need for Israel to return to true worship and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His promises.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, often the focus of Jeremiah's prophecies due to their idolatry and disobedience.

4. Babylonian Exile
The impending event where Judah would be taken captive by Babylon as a consequence of their sin, serving as a backdrop for Jeremiah's prophecies.

5. Idolatry
The worship of false gods, a recurring sin of the Israelites that led to their judgment and exile.

Teaching Points

God's Revelation of Himself
God desires to make Himself known to His people, often through acts of power and might. This revelation is both a warning and an invitation to recognize His sovereignty.

The Importance of Knowing God's Name
Knowing God's name signifies understanding His character and authority. It is crucial for believers to grasp the depth of who God is and His rightful place in their lives.

Consequences of Idolatry
The context of this verse is a warning against idolatry. Believers must guard against modern forms of idolatry, ensuring that God remains the central focus of their worship.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite the judgment, God remains faithful to His covenant. His actions are consistent with His character, providing hope for restoration and redemption.

Responding to God's Power and Might
Believers are called to respond to God's revelation with awe, worship, and obedience, recognizing His ultimate authority over all creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Jeremiah 16:21 enhance our comprehension of God's message to Judah?

2. In what ways can modern believers fall into the trap of idolatry, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the revelation of God's power and might in Jeremiah 16:21 encourage us in our personal faith journey?

4. What are some practical ways we can deepen our understanding of God's name and character in our daily lives?

5. How do the themes of judgment and hope in Jeremiah's prophecies apply to the church today, and how can we live in light of these truths?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:7
God promises to take the Israelites as His people and be their God, emphasizing His desire for them to know Him.

Ezekiel 20:44
God acts for the sake of His name, showing His commitment to His own glory and the knowledge of His power.

Isaiah 52:6
The LORD declares that His people will know His name, highlighting the theme of revelation and recognition of God's sovereignty.

Psalm 46:10
"Be still, and know that I am God," which parallels the idea of God revealing His power and might.

Romans 1:20
Paul speaks of God's invisible qualities being clearly seen, connecting to the revelation of God's power and might.