Jeremiah 27:5

By My great power and outstretched arm, I made the earth and the men and beasts on the face of it, and I give it to whom I please.

Study Bible

By My great power and outstretched arm
This phrase emphasizes God's omnipotence and sovereignty. The imagery of an "outstretched arm" is often used in the Old Testament to depict God's mighty acts of deliverance and judgment, such as in Exodus 6:6, where God promises to deliver Israel from Egypt. It signifies strength and active intervention in the world. The power of God is a recurring theme, underscoring His ability to create, sustain, and govern the universe.

I made the earth and the men and beasts on the face of it
This statement affirms God as the Creator of all things, echoing Genesis 1, where God creates the heavens and the earth, and all living creatures. It establishes His authority over creation, as everything originates from His will and design. This creation account is foundational to understanding humanity's place in the world and our relationship with God, as well as the inherent value of all life.

and I give it to whom I please
Here, God's sovereignty over the distribution of land and power is highlighted. This reflects the biblical theme that God raises up and deposes rulers according to His purposes, as seen in Daniel 2:21. It serves as a reminder that human authority is ultimately subject to divine will. This principle is evident throughout biblical history, where God grants and removes kingdoms, demonstrating His control over the affairs of nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah and the surrounding nations. He is known for his prophecies of judgment and restoration.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment and exile due to its disobedience to God.

3. Babylonian Exile
The event where the people of Judah were taken captive by the Babylonians, a central theme in Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, whom God used as an instrument of judgment against Judah and other nations.

5. God's Sovereignty
The overarching theme of this passage, emphasizing God's control over creation and His authority to give dominion to whomever He chooses.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Creation
Recognize that God, as the Creator, has ultimate authority over all creation. This understanding should lead to a posture of humility and trust in His plans.

Divine Authority and Human Governance
Acknowledge that God appoints leaders and authorities according to His purposes. This should encourage believers to pray for leaders and trust God's overarching plan, even when earthly governance seems flawed.

Trust in God's Plan
In times of uncertainty or difficulty, remember that God is in control. His "great power and outstretched arm" are at work, even when circumstances are challenging.

Stewardship of Creation
As God has created and given the earth to humanity, believers are called to be good stewards of the environment and resources entrusted to them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in creation affect your view of current world events and leadership?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate trust in God's plan, especially when facing personal challenges or uncertainties?

3. How can the truth of God's authority over creation inspire you to be a better steward of the environment and resources?

4. Reflect on a time when you struggled with the actions of a leader or government. How can Jeremiah 27:5 guide your response and attitude?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Jeremiah 27:5 connect with the message of hope and restoration found later in Jeremiah's prophecies?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:1
This verse connects to the creation theme in Jeremiah 27:5, highlighting God's power in creating the heavens and the earth.

Daniel 4:17
This passage reinforces the idea of God's sovereignty over the kingdoms of men, similar to the message in Jeremiah 27:5.

Psalm 24:1
This verse echoes the theme of God's ownership of the earth and everything in it, aligning with the message of Jeremiah 27:5.