Jeremiah 43:2

Azariah son of Hoshaiah, Johanan son of Kareah, and all the arrogant men said to Jeremiah, "You are lying! The LORD our God has not sent you to say, 'You must not go to Egypt to reside there.'

Study Bible

then Azariah son of Hoshaiah
Azariah, whose name means "Yahweh has helped," is a significant figure in this narrative. The mention of his lineage, "son of Hoshaiah," roots him in a historical context, emphasizing the importance of family and heritage in ancient Israel. This highlights the cultural and societal structures of the time, where lineage often determined one's role and influence. Azariah's actions, however, contrast with the meaning of his name, as he opposes the divine message delivered by Jeremiah.

Johanan son of Kareah
Johanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious," is another leader among the remnant of Judah. His identification as "son of Kareah" further establishes his identity and authority. Despite his name suggesting a recognition of God's grace, Johanan's resistance to Jeremiah's prophecy reveals a struggle between faith and fear, a common theme in the lives of the Israelites during times of crisis.

and all the arrogant men
The phrase "all the arrogant men" indicates a collective attitude of pride and self-reliance among the leaders and people. In Hebrew, the word for arrogant can imply a sense of presumption or insolence, often leading to a rejection of divine authority. This highlights a recurring biblical theme where human pride leads to disobedience and ultimately, downfall.

said to Jeremiah
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," is a central figure in this narrative. His role as God's messenger is met with resistance and hostility, reflecting the broader rejection of prophetic voices throughout Israel's history. This interaction underscores the tension between divine truth and human resistance.

'You are lying!
The accusation "You are lying!" is a direct challenge to Jeremiah's integrity and the authenticity of his message. This reflects a deep-seated mistrust and fear among the people, who are unwilling to accept a message that contradicts their desires. It also highlights the spiritual blindness that can result from pride and disobedience.

The LORD our God has not sent you
This phrase reveals a fundamental misunderstanding or denial of God's sovereignty and the role of His prophets. By claiming that "The LORD our God has not sent you," the people are essentially rejecting God's authority and choosing to follow their own path. This is a pivotal moment that illustrates the consequences of ignoring divine guidance.

to say, ‘You must not go to Egypt to reside there.’
The command "You must not go to Egypt to reside there" is significant in the historical context of Israel's relationship with Egypt. Egypt often represented a place of refuge but also a place of bondage and idolatry. God's instruction through Jeremiah was a call to trust in His provision and protection rather than seeking security in foreign alliances. This reflects a broader biblical theme of reliance on God rather than human solutions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azariah son of Hoshaiah
A leader among the remnant of Judah, who opposed Jeremiah's prophecy.

2. Johanan son of Kareah
Another leader of the remnant, who also rejected Jeremiah's message.

3. Jeremiah
The prophet of God, delivering a message to the people of Judah.

4. Egypt
The place where the remnant of Judah desired to flee for safety, against God's command.

5. The Remnant of Judah
The remaining people of Judah after the Babylonian conquest, seeking refuge.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
The "arrogant men" rejected God's message through Jeremiah. Pride can blind us to God's truth and lead to disobedience.

The Importance of Obedience
Despite their promise to obey God's word, the remnant chose their own path. True faith requires obedience, even when it's difficult.

Trust in God's Plan
The remnant's desire to flee to Egypt reflects a lack of trust in God's protection. We must trust God's plan, even when it seems counterintuitive.

The Role of Prophets
Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to deliver God's message, regardless of its reception. We should respect and heed godly counsel.

Consequences of Disobedience
The remnant's decision to go to Egypt led to further judgment. Disobedience to God often results in negative consequences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of Azariah and Johanan reflect a common human tendency when confronted with difficult truths?

2. In what ways can pride prevent us from hearing and accepting God's guidance in our own lives?

3. How does the remnant's desire to go to Egypt parallel other instances in the Bible where God's people struggled with trust?

4. What can we learn from Jeremiah's faithfulness in delivering God's message, even when it was unpopular?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 43:2 to ensure we are obedient to God's will in our daily decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 42
Provides context where the remnant asks Jeremiah to seek God's guidance, promising to obey whatever God commands.

Exodus 14
Reflects on the Israelites' previous desire to return to Egypt, showing a pattern of disobedience and lack of trust in God.

Isaiah 30:1-2
Warns against seeking refuge in Egypt, highlighting a recurring theme of misplaced trust.

2 Kings 25
Describes the fall of Jerusalem, setting the stage for the remnant's situation.

Proverbs 16:18
Speaks to the dangers of pride, relevant to the "arrogant men" in Jeremiah 43:2.