Jeremiah 26:12

But Jeremiah said to all the officials and all the people, "The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that you have heard.

Study Bible

Then Jeremiah said
The phrase begins with "Then," indicating a response or continuation of a previous event. Jeremiah, the prophet, is speaking. His name in Hebrew, "Yirmeyahu," means "Yahweh will exalt." Jeremiah is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his deep emotional connection to the messages he delivered. His role as a prophet was to be a mouthpiece for God, often delivering messages that were unpopular and met with resistance.

to all the officials and all the people
Jeremiah addresses both "officials" and "people," indicating the breadth of his audience. The "officials" were likely the leaders or elders of Judah, those in positions of authority who had the power to influence decisions. The "people" refers to the general populace of Jerusalem. This dual audience underscores the importance and gravity of the message, as it was meant for both the leaders and the common people, emphasizing that God's message is for everyone, regardless of status.

The LORD sent me
"The LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, highlighting the personal and relational aspect of God with His people. "Sent me" indicates divine commissioning. Jeremiah did not speak on his own authority but was sent by God. This divine sending is crucial, as it legitimizes Jeremiah's message and mission. It reflects the biblical theme of prophets being chosen and sent by God to deliver His word.

to prophesy against this house and this city
"To prophesy" involves delivering a message from God, often concerning future events or divine judgment. "Against this house" refers to the Temple, the central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing their religious life. "This city" refers to Jerusalem, the political and spiritual heart of Judah. The use of "against" indicates a message of warning or judgment, suggesting that both the religious and civic life of the people had strayed from God's ways.

all the words that you have heard
"All the words" emphasizes the completeness and totality of the message. Jeremiah was not selective in his prophecy; he delivered the full counsel of God. "That you have heard" suggests that the message was already known to the audience, possibly through previous warnings or teachings. This phrase underscores the accountability of the people, as they had already been made aware of God's expectations and the consequences of disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance in the face of opposition and his deep emotional connection to his prophetic mission.

2. The Officials and the People
The leaders and inhabitants of Judah who were present at the temple when Jeremiah delivered his message. They represent the societal and religious structures of the time.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who sent Jeremiah to deliver His message. His authority and sovereignty are central to the account.

4. The House and the City
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem and the city itself, which were central to the religious and cultural identity of the Jewish people.

5. The Prophecy
The message of impending judgment that Jeremiah was commanded to deliver, warning of the consequences of the people's disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
Jeremiah's message was not his own but was delivered under the authority of God. This reminds us of the importance of Scripture as God's authoritative word in our lives.

Courage in Proclaiming Truth
Jeremiah stood firm in delivering God's message despite opposition. We are called to be courageous in sharing the truth of the Gospel, even when it is unpopular.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The prophecy against the house and city highlights the serious consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
The passage underscores God's sovereignty in sending prophets and His justice in holding people accountable. We can trust in God's righteous judgment.

The Role of the Prophet
Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to speak God's truth, regardless of personal cost. This challenges us to consider how we can be faithful messengers of God's word today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's response to the officials and people demonstrate his understanding of his prophetic calling?

2. In what ways can we apply Jeremiah's courage in proclaiming God's truth to our own lives today?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty in Jeremiah 26:12 provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty?

4. What are some modern-day "houses" or "cities" that might be at risk of judgment due to disobedience, and how can we intercede for them?

5. How do the roles and responsibilities of a prophet in the Old Testament compare to the role of believers in sharing the Gospel today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:4-10
This passage describes Jeremiah's calling and commission by God, establishing his authority as a prophet.

Deuteronomy 18:18-22
Discusses the role of a prophet and the importance of listening to God's words through His chosen messengers.

Acts 7:51-53
Stephen's speech to the Sanhedrin, which parallels Jeremiah's experience of delivering a hard message to a resistant audience.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, echoing the themes of warning and impending judgment found in Jeremiah's prophecies.