Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the imagery of "good figs" is prominently featured in the book of Jeremiah, specifically in Jeremiah 24. This metaphor is used to represent the righteous remnant of Judah, those who would be preserved and restored by God despite the impending judgment and exile.Biblical Context The vision of the good and bad figs is given to the prophet Jeremiah after King Jeconiah of Judah, along with the officials, craftsmen, and artisans, had been taken into exile in Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. The LORD shows Jeremiah two baskets of figs placed before the temple of the LORD. One basket contains very good figs, like those that ripen early, while the other basket contains very bad figs, so bad they cannot be eaten (Jeremiah 24:1-2). Symbolism of Good Figs The good figs symbolize the exiles from Judah whom God regards favorably. The LORD declares, "Like these good figs, so I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I have sent away from this place to the land of the Chaldeans" (Jeremiah 24:5). This group represents the righteous remnant who, despite being taken into captivity, are under God's watchful care and are promised eventual restoration. Divine Promise and Restoration God's promise to the good figs is one of hope and future restoration. He assures them, "I will set My eyes upon them for good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them" (Jeremiah 24:6). This promise underscores God's faithfulness and His commitment to preserving a remnant for Himself, even in the midst of judgment. Spiritual Implications The imagery of the good figs serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to discern the hearts of His people. It highlights the theme of divine selection and grace, where God chooses to preserve and bless those who remain faithful to Him, even in difficult circumstances. The good figs are a testament to the idea that righteousness is not merely about external circumstances but about the condition of the heart and one's relationship with God. Contrast with Bad Figs In contrast, the bad figs represent those who are rejected by God due to their unfaithfulness and disobedience. The LORD says, "Like the bad figs, which are so bad they cannot be eaten, so will I deal with Zedekiah king of Judah, his officials, and the remnant of Jerusalem who remain in this land and those living in the land of Egypt" (Jeremiah 24:8). This stark contrast serves as a warning against complacency and the consequences of turning away from God. Theological Significance The metaphor of the good figs is significant in understanding the nature of God's judgment and mercy. It illustrates the principle that God, in His righteousness, distinguishes between those who are faithful and those who are not. The good figs are a symbol of hope and assurance for believers, affirming that God is attentive to the plight of the righteous and is committed to their ultimate redemption and restoration. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 24:2-7One basket had very good figs, even like the figs that are first ripe: and the other basket had very naughty figs, which could not be eaten, they were so bad. Nave's Topical Index Library False Prophets November 19 Morning Preparation for Advent Nothing but Leaves Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount Concerning the Condition of Man in the Fall. The Desire of the Righteous Granted; Demonstration viii. --Of the Resurrection of the Dead. The Eclectic Philosophy Paves the Way for Divine virtue. Another Sermon of Dr. Tauler Resources What does it mean to be overrighteous and overwise (Ecclesiastes 7:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is justification? What does it mean to be justified? | GotQuestions.org Why did Abraham bargain with God in regard to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18)? | GotQuestions.org Righteous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Righteous: Calves of the Stall Righteous: Members of the Body Righteous: Promises To, Expressed or Implied Righteous: Relation of, to God Righteous: Righteous and Wicked, Circumstances of, Contrasted Righteous: Strangers and Pilgrims Righteous: Trees Planted Beside Rivers Righteous: Unity of, With Christ Righteous: Vessels of Gold and Silver Righteous: Willows by the Water Courses Select Readings: The Righteous and the Wicked in Contrast Related Terms |
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