Jeremiah 37:9

This is what the LORD says: Do not deceive yourselves by saying, 'The Chaldeans will go away for good,' for they will not!

Study Bible

This is what the LORD says:
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind the message. In the context of Jeremiah, the prophet often begins his declarations with this phrase to assert that the message is not his own but from God. This underscores the importance of listening to the words that follow, as they are not merely human opinion but divine revelation. Throughout the Bible, similar phrases are used to introduce prophetic messages, highlighting the role of prophets as God's mouthpieces (e.g., Isaiah 1:10, Ezekiel 2:4).

Do not deceive yourselves:
The warning against self-deception is a recurring theme in Scripture. In this context, the people of Judah were prone to false hopes and misleading assurances, often from false prophets who contradicted Jeremiah's warnings. This phrase calls for self-examination and a rejection of comforting lies. Biblically, self-deception is often linked to sin and rebellion against God (James 1:22, Galatians 6:3).

by saying, ‘The Chaldeans will go away for good,’
The Chaldeans, also known as the Babylonians, were the dominant power threatening Judah at this time. Historically, the Babylonians had already besieged Jerusalem, and there was a temporary withdrawal due to the Egyptian army's approach (Jeremiah 37:5). This led some in Judah to believe that the threat was permanently removed. The phrase reflects a false sense of security and a misunderstanding of the geopolitical situation. The Chaldeans were known for their military prowess and were instruments of God's judgment against Judah (2 Kings 24:2).

for they will not!
This emphatic statement confirms the certainty of the Chaldeans' return and the impending judgment. It serves as a direct contradiction to the false hopes held by the people. Theologically, it underscores God's sovereignty and the inevitability of His plans. The return of the Chaldeans and the eventual fall of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 39:1-10) fulfill Jeremiah's prophecies, demonstrating the reliability of God's word. This also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of heeding God's warnings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is delivering a message through Jeremiah to the people of Judah.

3. The Chaldeans
Also known as the Babylonians, they were a powerful empire threatening Judah during Jeremiah's time. They were used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was under threat from the Babylonian empire due to its disobedience to God.

5. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, during whose reign this prophecy was given. He often sought Jeremiah's counsel but failed to heed God's warnings.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Self-Deception
Self-deception can lead to false hope and poor decision-making. We must seek God's truth rather than relying on our own understanding or desires.

The Importance of Heeding God's Warnings
Ignoring God's warnings can lead to dire consequences. We should be attentive to His Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even when circumstances seem dire, trust that God is in control. His plans and purposes will prevail, and we must align ourselves with His will.

Discernment Against False Assurance
Be wary of false assurances that contradict God's Word. Test everything against Scripture to ensure it aligns with God's truth.

The Role of Prophets and God's Messengers
God uses His messengers to communicate His will. We should respect and consider the messages delivered by those who faithfully proclaim God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we guard against self-deception in our own lives, especially when facing difficult situations?

2. What are some modern-day "Chaldeans" or threats that we might falsely believe will depart without addressing the root issues?

3. How does the warning in Jeremiah 37:9 relate to the broader theme of judgment and redemption in the Bible?

4. In what ways can we ensure that we are heeding God's warnings and not just listening to what we want to hear?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 37:9 to our understanding of current events and the world around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:8-9
This passage warns against false prophets who deceive the people, similar to the warning in Jeremiah 37:9 against self-deception.

2 Kings 25:1-7
Describes the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, fulfilling the prophecy that the Chaldeans would not depart.

Proverbs 14:12
Highlights the danger of self-deception, which aligns with the warning in Jeremiah 37:9.

Matthew 24:4-5
Jesus warns His disciples about being deceived, echoing the theme of vigilance against deception found in Jeremiah 37:9.