Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 45)

Chapter 45 is one of the most intriguing chapters in the entire book.  It is by far the shortest chapter in the book—only five verses long.  It is intentionally not in chronological order.  The previous six chapters describe the fall…

Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 44)

After the Jewish remnant defiantly disobeys the Lord’s message by leaving the Promised Land and settling in Egypt, the Lord sends another message through Jeremiah to them.  This message along with their response is recorded in some detail in chapter…

Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 42)

Chapter 42 continues the story line that began in 40:7 and runs through the end of chapter 43.  Where most of the longer narrative is filled with action and movement (assassination, battle, journey), chapter 42 stands still and records part…

Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 41)

This chapter continues to chronicle the political and spiritual collapse of the Jewish remnant left in the land after the fall of Jerusalem.  Seven months into Gedaliah’s governorship, Ishmael returns to meet with Gedaliah.  Ishmael, who is almost always referred…

Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 35)

Chapter 34 focused attention on the fickle king and people of Jerusalem; chapter 35 introduces the faithful Rechabites.  Where Zedekiah, his officials and people vacillated in keeping their covenant promises, the Rechabites were faithful to their covenant promises.  Where the…

Tuesdays with Jeremiah (Chapter 31)

This chapter is the high-watermark of the “Book of Consolation” (30-33) and the book of Jeremiah. It could be the high point of the entire Old Testament!  It contains an extended description of the joyful re-gathering and resettlement in the…