Jeremiah 42:10

If you will indeed stay in this land, then I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you, for I will relent of the disaster I have brought upon you.

Study Bible

If you will indeed stay in this land
This phrase is a conditional promise from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience and trust in His plan. The Hebrew word for "stay" (שָׁכַן, shakan) implies dwelling or settling, suggesting a sense of permanence and commitment. Historically, this was a critical moment for the remnant of Judah after the Babylonian conquest. God was urging them to remain in the land He had given them, despite their fears and uncertainties. This call to stay reflects a broader biblical theme of trusting in God's provision and timing, even when circumstances seem dire.

then I will build you up and not tear you down
The promise of being "built up" (בָּנָה, banah) is a powerful image of restoration and growth. In the context of ancient Israel, building up often referred to the physical and spiritual restoration of the nation. The contrast with "not tear you down" (נָתַץ, nathats) underscores God's desire to nurture and protect His people rather than bring destruction. This reflects God's covenant faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and blessing, even after periods of judgment.

I will plant you and not uproot you
The imagery of planting (נָטַע, nata) conveys stability and fruitfulness. In biblical times, being planted in the land was synonymous with security and prosperity. The assurance of not being uprooted (עָקַר, akar) further emphasizes God's commitment to their well-being. This promise is reminiscent of the blessings described in Psalm 1, where the righteous are likened to a tree planted by streams of water. It speaks to the enduring nature of God's promises and His desire for His people to flourish where He has placed them.

for I relent of the disaster I have brought upon you
The word "relent" (נָחַם, nacham) indicates a change of heart or intention, often translated as "repent" in other contexts. Here, it signifies God's compassion and willingness to withhold further judgment. The "disaster" (רָעָה, ra'ah) refers to the calamity of the Babylonian exile, a consequence of the people's disobedience. Yet, God's relenting highlights His mercy and readiness to forgive and restore. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's justice tempered by His grace, offering hope and renewal to those who turn back to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah.

2. The Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who remained in Judah after the Babylonian conquest and exile.

3. Egypt
The place where the remnant considered fleeing to escape further Babylonian oppression.

4. Babylonian Exile
The period when many Israelites were taken captive to Babylon, a significant event in Jewish history.

5. God's Promise
The assurance given by God through Jeremiah that He would restore and bless the people if they remained in the land.

Teaching Points

Obedience Brings Restoration
God's promise to "build you up and not tear you down" emphasizes the importance of obedience to His commands. Staying in the land was a test of faith and trust in God's plan.

God's Relenting Nature
The phrase "for I relent of the disaster" shows God's willingness to change His course of action in response to repentance and obedience. This highlights His mercy and compassion.

The Importance of Place
God's instruction to remain in the land underscores the significance of being where God wants us to be. It is a reminder that our location and circumstances are often part of His divine plan.

Trust in God's Timing
The promise to "plant you and not uproot you" requires patience and trust in God's timing. It teaches us to wait on the Lord and His perfect plan for our lives.

The Consequences of Fear
The remnant's fear of Babylon led them to consider fleeing to Egypt. This serves as a warning against making decisions based on fear rather than faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jeremiah 42:10 teach us about the relationship between obedience and God's blessings?

2. How can we apply the concept of being "planted" by God in our own lives today?

3. In what ways does God's willingness to relent from disaster encourage us in our walk with Him?

4. How does the instruction to remain in the land challenge us to trust in God's plan, even when it seems difficult?

5. What are some modern-day "Egypts" that we might be tempted to flee to, and how can we resist that temptation by trusting in God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:1-5
This passage speaks of God's promise to restore Israel if they return to Him, similar to the promise in Jeremiah 42:10.

Psalm 1:3
The imagery of being "planted" and prospering is echoed here, emphasizing the blessings of obedience.

Isaiah 61:3
The idea of being "planted" by the Lord is also found here, symbolizing stability and blessing.

2 Chronicles 7:14
The call for repentance and God's promise to heal the land parallels the message in Jeremiah.

Romans 11:23-24
Paul speaks of being grafted in, using similar imagery of planting and uprooting, highlighting God's power to restore.