Topical Encyclopedia
Jeremiah, one of the major prophets in the Old Testament, is a profound example of early piety and dedication to God's calling from a young age. His life and ministry are chronicled in the Book of Jeremiah, where his early commitment to God is evident.
Divine Calling from YouthJeremiah's journey as a prophet began with a divine calling that underscores the importance of early piety. In
Jeremiah 1:4-5 , the Lord speaks to Jeremiah, saying, "The word of the LORD came to me, saying: 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.'" This passage highlights that God had a purpose for Jeremiah even before his birth, emphasizing the belief that God can call individuals to His service from a very young age.
Jeremiah's Initial HesitationDespite his divine appointment, Jeremiah initially expressed reluctance due to his youth. In
Jeremiah 1:6 , he responds, "Ah, Lord GOD, I said, 'I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!'" This moment of hesitation is significant as it reflects the natural apprehension that young people might feel when faced with daunting tasks. However, it also serves as a reminder that God equips those He calls, regardless of their age.
God's Assurance and EmpowermentGod's response to Jeremiah's hesitation is both reassuring and empowering. In
Jeremiah 1:7-8 , the Lord says, "Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ For to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD." This assurance from God highlights the importance of trusting in His presence and guidance, even when one feels inadequate or inexperienced.
Jeremiah's Obedience and FaithfulnessJeremiah's early piety is further demonstrated through his obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. Despite facing significant opposition and persecution throughout his ministry, Jeremiah remained steadfast in delivering God's messages to the people of Judah. His unwavering commitment serves as an inspiring example for children and young believers, illustrating the impact of early dedication to God's will.
Lessons for Young BelieversThe early piety of Jeremiah offers several lessons for young believers today. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to God's call, even from a young age. Jeremiah's life teaches that God can use anyone, regardless of age, to fulfill His purposes. It also encourages young believers to trust in God's strength and presence, knowing that He will equip them for the tasks He sets before them.
Jeremiah's account is a testament to the power of early piety and the profound impact that a life dedicated to God can have, even from childhood. His example continues to inspire young believers to pursue a life of faithfulness and obedience to God's calling.
Nave's Topical Index
Jeremiah 1:5-7Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came forth out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet to the nations.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Blessing of God on Filial Piety.
... house, and instil the same into their children from generation ... Men of piety should
always be found among them. ... I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking ...
/.../lee/sermons on various important subjects/sermon xxiii the blessing of.htm
Meditations for Household Piety.
... to his duty, to bring up his children and family ... whoremongers, and profane scorners
of true piety and religion ... their house: yet let them "rise up early and lie ...
/.../bayly/the practice of piety/meditations for household piety.htm
Meditations on the Hindrances which Keep Back a Sinner from the ...
... worker, therefore the hearts of the children of men are ... thee from becoming a present
practiser of religious piety! ... youth (Ecclesiastes 12:12), and early in the ...
/.../bayly/the practice of piety/meditations on the hindrances which.htm
That it is the Prerogative of the Same Power to be Beneficent and ...
... sought after Him, and turned and inquired early after God ... towards God, as also
right-minded children towards their ... And as far as piety is concerned, that which ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter ix that it is the.htm
Backsliding.
... is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it ... head of the family of faith; and the
children of faith ... those who make the most noise who have the most piety. ...
/.../moody/the way to god and how to find it/chapter ix backsliding.htm
On Attending the Church Service
... did, or ever will, work by the children of the ... churches in Asia, because, even in
that early period, their ... the life and power of it; for piety, justice, mercy ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 104 on attending the.htm
Footnotes
... to refer to the same occasion early in Jehoiakim's reign ... be only the reflection of
later Jewish piety on so ... 310 Whether the sacrifices of children in Hinnom had ...
//christianbookshelf.org/smith/jeremiah/footnotes.htm
Of a Private Fast.
... And if thou wilt break thy sleep early and late for ... 1. This has been the manner of
all God's children in their ... fasting day, are either the works of piety to God ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bayly/the practice of piety/i of a private fast.htm
The Moravians.
... He early conceived the idea, by planting in the spirit ... started with a legalistic
type of piety, but they ... cared little or nothing for their children in America. ...
/.../creeds of christendom with a history and critical notes/ 108 the moravians.htm
Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in ...
... 3. The increase of piety in a heart already regenerated, is spoken of as ... design of
a sermon." And indeed it seems to me, that children may early come to ...
/.../practical discourses on regeneration/discourse vii of the necessity.htm
Resources
What does it mean that Jesus loves the little children? | GotQuestions.orgHow should Christians discipline their children? What does the Bible say? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about disobedient children? | GotQuestions.orgChildren: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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