Jeremiah 29:28

For he has sent to us in Babylon, claiming: Since the exile will be lengthy, build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat their produce.'"

Study Bible

For he has sent to us in Babylon, claiming:
This phrase refers to the message sent by Jeremiah to the exiles in Babylon. Jeremiah, a prophet during the time of the Babylonian exile, communicated God's instructions to the Israelites who had been taken captive. The historical context is the Babylonian captivity, which began in 597 BC when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquered Jerusalem and deported many of its inhabitants. This message was crucial as it came from a prophet recognized by the people, providing divine guidance during a time of uncertainty and displacement.

Since the exile will be lengthy,
Jeremiah's message was a direct contradiction to the false prophets who were claiming that the exile would be short-lived. The historical context here is significant, as many exiles hoped for a quick return to Jerusalem. Jeremiah, however, prophesied that the exile would last 70 years (Jeremiah 29:10), emphasizing the need for the people to adjust to their new circumstances. This period was part of God's judgment on Judah for their disobedience, but it also served as a time for the people to turn back to God.

build houses and settle down;
This instruction was practical and symbolic. Building houses and settling down indicated that the exiles should prepare for a long stay in Babylon. It was a call to stability and acceptance of their current situation. Culturally, this was a significant shift, as the Israelites were being encouraged to integrate into Babylonian society to some extent, while still maintaining their identity and faith. This also reflects God's sovereignty and His plans for His people, even in foreign lands.

plant gardens and eat their produce.
This phrase suggests self-sufficiency and a degree of prosperity even in exile. Planting gardens and eating their produce implies that the exiles should not only survive but thrive in Babylon. This instruction aligns with the biblical principle of seeking the welfare of the city where they were exiled (Jeremiah 29:7). It also foreshadows the eventual return and restoration of the Israelites, as they would need to maintain their cultural and religious practices, including dietary laws, even while in a foreign land. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides sustenance and life even in difficult circumstances, pointing to the spiritual nourishment found in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages to the people of Judah, including warnings of impending exile and promises of future restoration.

2. Babylon
The empire that conquered Judah and took many of its inhabitants into exile. It represents a place of judgment but also a place where God’s people are called to live and thrive temporarily.

3. Exile
The period during which the people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon. It was a time of punishment for their disobedience but also a time for reflection and growth.

4. Houses and Gardens
Symbolic of settling down and making the best of a difficult situation. It reflects God’s instruction to the exiles to live productive lives even in captivity.

5. Hananiah
A false prophet who contradicted Jeremiah by claiming the exile would be short. His message was one of false hope, leading people away from God’s true plan.

Teaching Points

Embrace God’s Timing
Understand that God’s plans may not align with our desires for immediate relief or change. Trust in His timing and purpose.

Thrive Where You Are Planted
Even in difficult circumstances, God calls us to be productive and contribute positively to our surroundings.

Discern True from False Messages
Be wary of messages that promise easy solutions or quick fixes. Seek God’s truth through His Word and prayer.

Hope in God’s Promises
Remember that God’s plans are for our welfare, even when we face trials. Hold onto His promises for a future and a hope.

Live Faithfully in Exile
Like the exiles in Babylon, Christians are called to live faithfully in a world that is not their ultimate home, reflecting God’s love and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah’s message to the exiles in Babylon challenge our understanding of God’s plans during difficult times?

2. In what ways can we "build houses and plant gardens" in our own lives when facing challenging circumstances?

3. How can we discern between true and false messages in today’s world, similar to the situation with Jeremiah and Hananiah?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Babylonian exile and the Christian experience of living as "foreigners and exiles" in the world?

5. How can the promise of a future and a hope in Jeremiah 29:11 encourage us to remain faithful and hopeful in our current situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:11
This verse follows the instruction to settle in Babylon and promises a future and a hope, showing God’s ultimate plan for restoration.

Daniel 1
Daniel and his friends exemplify living faithfully in Babylon, aligning with Jeremiah’s instruction to thrive in exile.

Psalm 137
Reflects the emotional struggle of the exiles in Babylon, contrasting with Jeremiah’s call to settle and prosper.

1 Peter 2:11
Christians are described as "foreigners and exiles," drawing a parallel to the Babylonian exile and encouraging believers to live godly lives in a world that is not their home.