Jeremiah 44:27

I am watching over them for harm and not for good, and every man of Judah who is in the land of Egypt will meet his end by sword or famine, until they are finished off.

Study Bible

Behold
The word "Behold" is often used in Scripture to draw attention to a significant statement or divine pronouncement. In Hebrew, it is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as a call to the audience to pay close attention. This word underscores the seriousness of God's message through Jeremiah, emphasizing that what follows is of utmost importance and divine authority.

I am watching over them
The phrase "I am watching over them" uses the Hebrew root "שָׁקַד" (shaqad), which means to be vigilant or to watch closely. This is a sobering reminder that God is actively observing the actions of His people. In this context, it is not for their protection, as is often the case, but for judgment. It highlights God's omnipresence and His role as a just overseer of His covenant people.

for harm and not for good
This phrase is a reversal of the typical divine promise of protection and blessing. The Hebrew word for "harm" is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which signifies calamity or disaster. The contrast with "good" (טוֹב, tov) is stark, indicating a deliberate shift in God's dealings with the people of Judah due to their persistent disobedience. It serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God's covenant.

Every man of Judah who is in the land of Egypt
This specifies the audience of the prophecy—those from Judah who fled to Egypt against God's command. Historically, this refers to the remnant who sought refuge in Egypt after the Babylonian conquest, despite Jeremiah's warnings. Their choice to settle in Egypt symbolizes a rejection of God's guidance and a reliance on human wisdom and alliances.

will meet his end by sword or famine
The phrase "will meet his end by sword or famine" is a common prophetic declaration of judgment. The "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) and "famine" (רָעָב, ra'av) are often used in the Old Testament as instruments of divine judgment. This reflects the covenant curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience leads to such dire consequences. It underscores the seriousness of breaking covenantal faithfulness.

until they are finished off
The phrase "until they are finished off" indicates the completeness of the judgment. The Hebrew root "תָּמַם" (tamam) means to be complete or finished. This signifies that the judgment will be thorough and exhaustive, leaving no remnant of those who defied God's command. It serves as a sobering reminder of the finality of divine judgment when repentance is absent.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and judgment to the people of Judah. He is known for his perseverance in the face of opposition.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which had fallen into idolatry and disobedience against God. Many of its people fled to Egypt to escape Babylonian conquest.

3. Egypt
A place of refuge for the people of Judah, but also a land associated with past bondage and idolatry. It represents a turning away from trusting in God.

4. God's Judgment
The event of divine retribution where God declares that He will watch over the people for harm due to their disobedience and idolatry.

5. Sword and Famine
Instruments of God's judgment, symbolizing war and scarcity, which are consequences of the people's rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals, and His judgments are just and purposeful.

Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience to God's commands leads to inevitable consequences, as seen in the fate of Judah in Egypt.

The Danger of Misplaced Trust
Trusting in worldly powers or solutions, like Judah did with Egypt, leads to spiritual and physical ruin.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance and a return to God, who desires restoration.

The Importance of Heeding God's Word
Ignoring prophetic warnings, as Judah did, results in dire consequences. We must be attentive to God's Word and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jeremiah 44:27 reveal about God's character and His response to disobedience?

2. How does the experience of Judah in Egypt serve as a warning for us today regarding where we place our trust?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are heeding God's warnings in our own lives?

4. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Jeremiah 44:27 connect with the broader message of the Bible?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by Judah.

Jeremiah 42-43
These chapters describe the warnings given by Jeremiah to the remnant of Judah not to go to Egypt, which they ignored, leading to the judgment in Jeremiah 44:27.

Isaiah 31:1
This verse warns against relying on Egypt for help instead of trusting in God, highlighting the misplaced trust of Judah.