Jeremiah 44:20

Then Jeremiah said to all the people, both men and women, who were answering him,

Study Bible

Then Jeremiah said
The phrase "Then Jeremiah said" indicates a direct response from the prophet Jeremiah, a central figure in the Old Testament known for his unwavering commitment to delivering God's messages. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies a declaration or proclamation. Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to communicate God's will, often in challenging circumstances. His words were not his own but were inspired by God, emphasizing the divine authority behind his message.

to all the people
The phrase "to all the people" underscores the inclusivity of Jeremiah's message. It was not limited to a select few but was intended for the entire community. This reflects the communal nature of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Historically, the people of Judah were in Egypt at this time, having fled there after the fall of Jerusalem. Jeremiah's address to "all the people" signifies the universal applicability of God's message, regardless of their location or situation.

both men and women
The inclusion of "both men and women" highlights the egalitarian nature of the prophetic message. In a patriarchal society, addressing both genders explicitly underscores the importance of the message for every individual. This phrase indicates that the spiritual and moral responsibilities were shared by all members of the community. It also reflects the biblical principle that all are accountable to God, regardless of gender.

who were answering him
The phrase "who were answering him" suggests an ongoing dialogue between Jeremiah and the people. The Hebrew root for "answering" is "עָנָה" (anah), which can mean to respond or to testify. This interaction indicates that the people were not passive recipients but were actively engaging with Jeremiah's message. Historically, this reflects the tension and resistance Jeremiah often faced, as the people frequently rejected his warnings and continued in their disobedience. This dialogue serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding God's word and the consequences of ignoring it.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah is known for his prophecies of judgment and calls for repentance. In this chapter, he addresses the remnant of Judah living in Egypt.

2. Remnant of Judah
The group of Israelites who fled to Egypt after the destruction of Jerusalem, despite God's command to remain in the land of Judah.

3. Egypt
The place where the remnant of Judah sought refuge, symbolizing disobedience to God's command to stay in their own land.

4. Queen of Heaven
A pagan deity that the people of Judah were worshiping, which provoked God's anger and led to Jeremiah's rebuke.

5. Prophecy of Judgment
Jeremiah delivers a message from God, warning the people of the consequences of their idolatry and disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is a recurring sin that leads to separation from God. The worship of the "Queen of Heaven" is a direct violation of God's commandments and serves as a warning against placing anything above God in our lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
The remnant's decision to flee to Egypt against God's directive highlights the importance of trusting and obeying God's guidance, even when it seems counterintuitive.

Consequences of Disobedience
Jeremiah's prophecy underscores that disobedience to God brings about His judgment. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Jeremiah's steadfastness in delivering God's message, despite opposition, encourages believers to remain faithful in proclaiming truth, even in difficult circumstances.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
The events in Jeremiah 44 demonstrate God's control over nations and His commitment to justice, reminding us that He will hold people accountable for their actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the worship of the "Queen of Heaven" reflect the broader issue of idolatry in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, even when they challenge our personal desires or logic?

3. What are some modern-day "Egypts" that we might flee to instead of trusting in God's provision and protection?

4. How can we, like Jeremiah, remain faithful in delivering God's truth in the face of opposition or indifference?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of disobedience. How did that situation help you understand God's justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, which the people of Judah violated by worshiping the "Queen of Heaven."

2 Kings 25:26
Describes the flight of the remnant to Egypt, setting the stage for Jeremiah's prophecy in chapter 44.

Jeremiah 7:18
Earlier in Jeremiah, the prophet condemns the worship of the "Queen of Heaven," showing the persistence of this sin.

Deuteronomy 28:15-68
The curses for disobedience, which are echoed in the judgments pronounced by Jeremiah.