JEREMIAH. Lesson Number/Subject and Chapters Covered/Dates. Class Subject Chapters Date. Background - Call of Jeremiah and 1 st Speech

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2 JEREMIAH Lesson Number/Subject and Chapters Covered/Dates Class Subject Chapters Date 1 S Background - Call of and 1 st Speech 1-3:5 3-Jun-18 2 S Rejection of impenitent Israel 3:6-6:30 10-Jun-18 3 W 4 S 5 W 6 S False Religion and Its Consequences Consequences of Rejecting God s Covenant Revelation on the Occasion of Drought 's Message in Symbols & the Results 7 to Jun to Jun to Jun to Jun-18 7 W Woes to Zedekiah 21 to Jun-18 8 S 's Prophecy of 70 Years 25 to 29 1-Jul-18 9 W 10 S 11 W Jehovah's "Good Word" Concerning Future Conquest & Destruction of Judah - Events to Fall Conquest & Destruction of Judah - After Fall 30 to 33 4-Jul to 39 8-Jul to Jul S Jehovah's Judgment on Nations 46 to Jul W Jehovah's Judgment on Nations & Appendix 50 to Jul-18 1

3 The Prophets: Interpreters of Israelite History The following material is either summarized or taken verbatim from the text of a lecture by Phil Roberts presented at the Florida College Lectures in The material has also been supplemented with class material from Jim Jonas s Prophets and Prophecy and other sources. I. INTRODUCTION A. In reading and studying the Major and Minor Prophets, it is often difficult for us to detect the exact flow of their thought throughout a book. When we study from section to section, or chapter to chapter, their material may seem somewhat disorganized. It often does not fit into a neat outline (like a lot of sermons). B. However, by considering the role of the prophet and his purpose, it is possible to uncover an overall pattern that all the prophets follow. By the guidance of the Holy Spirit, they were God s interpreters of history. C. The major prophets Isaiah,, Ezekiel and Daniel are classified as such due to the length of the books. Their also were the prophets at a significant time in the history of Judah. Isaiah was during the time when the northern kingdom was taking away in captivity to the Assyrians and when all but Jerusalem was taken. prophesied to Judea, Ezekiel to the people already in captivity and Daniel to the rulers in the last days of Judah before the destruction of the temple. It was there task to speak to the people and explain to them God's judgment and actions were due to their sins and rebellion against him and the promise of a new covenant. II. THE HISTORIANS OF ISRAEL A. A prophet was an instrument by which God told His messages to man, whether concerning events in the future or reiterating what God had said in the past. B. Terms: Prophet (used over 300x in the OT); seer (cf. 1 Sam 9:9); man of God (nearly half the references used of Elisha). C. There are three ways to understand the role of the prophets. 1. They are Spokesmen for God, serving as forth tellers, speaking what God put in their mouth. 2. They are Preachers of the Covenant, relating their message to God s previous promises to the nation of Israel. These covenants were made with or through Abraham, Moses, and David. 3. They are historians, or Interpreters of the Israelites History. With out their interpretation God s people would not know why an event was occurring. 2

4 D. Biblical evidence suggests the prophets were the ones to record the history of the people. 1. Very often in Samuel and I Kings, there is a brief inscription at the end of each king s reign. It tells us the rest of the acts of this king are in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah and/or Israel. (For example, I Kings 16:20) a. Consulting the two books of Chronicles does not always yield the promised information. (For instance, notice the inscription in I Kings 16:27 concerning Omri. Yet, no such account exists in Chronicles.) b. This suggests that at least some of the references to chronicles are official archives or records. 2. However in Chronicles, a similar inscription at the end of the reigns of the same kings directs readers to the book of the prophets. These are men such as Samuel, Nathan and Gad (I Chr. 29:29), Iddo and Ahijah (2 Chro. 9:29), Shemaiah and Iddo (2 Chron 12:15), Jehu (2 Chron 20:34), Isaiah (2 Chron 26:22) and other prophets. (For example, compare I Kg. 14:29 and 2 Chr. 12:15). 3. The suggestion is that these historical records were being kept and written by the prophets themselves. E. This is also suggested by the way the Jews have always arranged the Old Testament books. 1. Our English Bible separates the prophets from the historical books. 2. The Jews use only three classifications: the Law, the Prophets and the Writings. The Prophets are divided into Former and Latter, the Latter Prophets match our Prophets, but the Former prophets are the historical books of Joshua, Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. F. The prophets knew there was a purpose to history, unlike other ancient civilizations. God had a purpose for Israel s history. This is why the reigns of various kings were not just records. They were a history that was part of God s design for Israel, and ultimately, the whole world. This knowledge of purpose gives biblical history a forward motion rather than a cyclic nature or view that we are doomed to repeat history. G. Prophets were not necessarily a class of men completely devoted to that vocation, though some were. Abraham, David and Daniel were prophets, but they were also dutifully occupied with other endeavors. What set a prophet apart was the direct call of God to deliver a message to the people whether one time or repeatedly. H. Prophets were not paraphrasers or simply given to following vague urges. The Scriptures paint a definite, detailed picture of communication between God and messenger. (1 Sam 9: Sam 16:7. 1 Kgs 14: Sam 7:1-5). 3

5 III. IV. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND POLITICAL STATUS A. Divided Kingdom The United Kingdom of David and Solomon split into two nations. 1. Israel, which was made up of the ten tribes to the North and they were destroyed by Assyria around 722 BC. 2. Judah, which was made up of the two tribes of the south. B. Assyria was a threat to Israel for well over 100 years and is a key player in all three of the prophets studied. PREACHER OF THE COVENANTS The prophets knew what God s purpose for Israel was, because He had revealed it in various covenants of his people. As a result, the prophets were preachers of the covenants. A. The Three Covenants 1. The Abrahamic Covenant This covenant with Abraham meant God has a chosen people, Abraham s seed. All nations would be blessed through them. His seed would be a great nation to whom would be given the land of Canaan. 2. The Mosaic Covenant This specified the terms under which God would accept the nations. Both blessing and curses were attached, based on their obedience or rebellion. 3. The Davidic Covenant This spoke of the time when God would establish His everlasting kingdom from the seed of David himself. B. The Nature of Each Covenant The chart below, taken from the lecture, indicates how the covenant made through Moses differed from the other two. It was bilateral, dependent on the obedience of the people in order for them to inherit blessings. The other two were unilateral, meaning God would provide the opportunity for these blessings, ultimately to all men, based on His own initiative. Abraham Moses David Unilateral Bilateral Unilateral Faithfulness of God Faithfulness of Man Faithfulness of God Blessings Only Blessings and Curses Blessings Permanent Temporary Permanent Fulfilled in Christ Replaced in Christ Fulfilled in Christ 1. While the covenants with Abraham and David were unconditional, the covenant with Moses was conditions on obedience. 4

6 2. By the time the prophets came on the scene, during a time of crisis for the nations of Israel and Judah, the people had forgotten their obligation. They were only seeing their history in light of the covenants of Abraham and David, ignoring the warnings of judgment and punishment for sin promised by Moses. 3. The purpose of the prophets was threefold: a. To warn the nations of the coming judgment. b. To explain why the judgment had come upon them. c. To give assurance, at least to a remnant, of a hope that lay beyond the judgment. V. THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE OLD AND THE NEW TESTAMENTS A. Instructive 1. 31:31-34; foretells of the establishment of a new covenant and the nature of the change in the covenant which is quoted in Heb 8: Jesus speaks of the sign of Jonah in Matthew 12:38-41 B. Predictive 1. Joel 2:28-32 is quoted by Peter and the other apostles on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2: Micah 4:1-3 is fulfillment of this prophecy began on the Day of Pentecost 3. Micah 5:2 is the passage that identifies the birthplace of the Messiah. C. Comparative 1. The book of Hebrews is a series of comparisons of the Old and the New Law. 2. I Peter 3:20-21 is where the apostle makes a comparison of Noah s salvation through water and our salvation through the water of baptism. VI. THE PROPHETIC PARADIGM The prophets went beyond simply explaining the crises the Israelites were facing in their own time. They explained how the crises fit into God s dealings with the nation and his eventual plan of redemption. Therefore, they present an overall view, or paradigm, which pervades their writings. There are eight basic points summed up in this interpretation of history. While it is normally easiest to look at the paradigm when studying the shorter or minor prophets these same views also pervades the major prophets. A. The Lord of History, 1: God is in control of the world's events and historical happenings, and controls natural orders of the universe - often seen (See Isa. 44:24-28). I am the Lord, who makes all things, Who stretches out the heavens all alone, Who spreads abroad the earth by Myself;" 2. By this absolute control of history, God is able to spell out the covenant and say what he will do. 5

7 B. The Election of Israel, 33:26 1. God chose the seed of Abraham, the nation of Israel, as the instrument through whom He would bless all nations. Am. 3:2 2. The prophets continually reminded the nations of their privileges and blessings. Am. 2:9-11; Hos. 8:12 3. With these blessings came a promise from the people that they would keep God s law. Ex. 24:3,7; Josh. 24:21 C. The Rebellion of Israel, 3:13 1. Israel failed to give attention to their agreement to obey God s law, holding to a national version of the doctrine that one cannot fall from grace. 2. As a result, the prophets make numerous appeals to this covenant in citing the sin of the people and urging them to obey. Hos. 8:12; 4:1,2; Am. 5: 21; Mic. 2:2; 3:8; Mal. 2:11 D. Judgment to Come, 5:14-15 The prophets warned of consequences to come when God brought judgment upon the people. Not surprisingly, many of their warnings match those of the curses God promised when making a covenant with Moses. Compare Am. 5:11 with Deut. 28:30; Hos. 9:11,16 with Deut. 28:18; and Deut. 28:49-68; Lev. 26:27-39 with Hos. 9:7; Am. 4:2,3; 5:27; 9:8,10; Mic. 4:10 E. Divine Compassion, 12:15 1. When judgment came, God did not forget His people. Even though they deserved total destruction, God did not treat them this way. This is easy to understand in light of God s eventual purpose to redeem man from sin. He even extends compassion to Zedekiah, if only he will obey and trust Him. 2. Where as the curses came from the Mosaic covenant, God s compassion stems from His covenant with Abraham. The statements of the prophets reflect this. Hos. 2:14,15,19,23; Am. 4:6,11; Mic. 7:18-20 F. Call to Repentance, 4:1-2 God could not bring back His people apart from their will. Thus the need for the nation to repent. This message could be inserted at various places within the paradigm. Am. 5:14-15; Joel 2:12-13 (Note this attitude in Daniel, Dan. 9:4-19) G. Redemption and Restoration, 30: Although the short-term preaching of the prophet usually centered around the Mosaic covenant, benefits promised in the future were tied to the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants. Gen. 22:17; cp. With Joel 3:1-2; Mic. 4:10a-12 6

8 2. On one level, the prophets promise the Israelites a return from captivity to the homeland. Yet, this physical restoration was but a prelude to the spiritual fulfillment of Abraham and David s covenants through Christ. Mic. 4:6-7; Joel 3:18; Am. 9:11,3 H. The Kingdom of God, 31:31-35 On the basis of God s promises to Abraham and David, God was able to explain that His kingdom would not only be for Jews, but all nations. This message is foretold by the prophets. Mic. 4:1,2; 5:7; Zech. 9:8,10 VII. FUFILLMENT OF PROPHECY A. Short Term Prophecies - Sometimes prophecies looked into the short-range future and gave specific indications of what would transpire. While it is possible for an uninspired forecaster to analyze a trend and project an outcome with a degree of certainty, Biblical prophecies often foretell what is unforeseeable. B. Medium-Range Prophecies - Things prophesied and fulfilled within a lifespan: C. Long-Range Prophecies - Sometimes great stretches of time are interposed between God s prophesies and their fulfillment. This is inconsequential as to the certainty of the prophecy made, for God doesn t unnecessarily procrastinate or forget His promises. D. Messianic Prophecies Are Long-Range Prophecies that are a key part of the prophets, for these prophecies offer hope to the people of a better day. 1. Passage clearly indicates it is Messianic Prophecy. 2. We are told in New Testament that a passage in the Old Testament is a direct prophecy/fulfillment connection. 3. We must also remember that many prophecies had an immediate, literal fulfillment with an additional long-term application. E. Interpretation of Prophecy Fulfillment Old Testament prophecy will often use figurative language to describe literal events that will happen. A good bible student needs to view with respect the original audience reading/hearing the prophecy, the people who saw the prophecy fulfilled, and how it helps to be better Christians today. Many people would want some portion of the prophecy to be unfulfilled and apply to current events these ancient prophecies. An underlining theme to this practice is the desire for people to have a second chance when the Lord comes again and to treat the figurative passages as literal events and so concluding the prophecies are unfulfilled. V. CONCLUSION An understanding of the covenants God made with Abraham, Moses and David helps us to see God s intention for his people, and ultimately, all mankind. The Prophets used these as a backdrop when trying to reach the people to whom they prophesied. When we understand the various elements of their message, we will not feel disoriented when lacking a defined outline of their writings. Rather it is possible to relate all of their prophecy to these key elements by which they interpreted the history of Israel to the people. 7

9 Lesson 1 Lesson 1. Background - Call of and 1 st speech: Background 2 Kings st Reading 1:1 3:5 2nd Reading 1:1 3:5, denote verses 3rd Reading 1:1-3:5 answer questions A. DATE OF BOOK 626 to 560 BC His work began in the thirteenth year of Josiah s reign (626 B.C.) He continued his prophetic work until Jerusalem was destroyed in 586 B.C. His concluding message was in the 37 th year of the captivity of Jehoiachin 560 B.C. (2 Kings 24:10ff) His work spanned approximately sixty six years B. OUTLINE OF BOOK The book is a powerful book of prophecy covering Judah s end, Judah s return, Babylonian captivity, Babylon s fall, the Messiah, and the new covenant with all nations. Part I: Chapter 1 s call Part II: Chapter 2-20 Speeches and Prophecies Concerning Judah & Jerusalem Primarily During the Time of Josiah, ( B.C.) Part III: Chapters Prophecies of Specific Events during the Time of Jehoiakim ( ) and Zedekiah, ( ), 1: Woe to Zedekiah, Chs : In the Fourth Year of Jehoiakim, Chs : In the Fourth Year of Zedekiah, Chs : The Book of God s Consolation, Chs : Under the Reign of Zedekiah, Ch. 34 6: Under the Reign of Jehoiakim, Chs : Under Zedekiah, Chs Part IV: Chapters s Ministry to Judah After the Fall of Jerusalem, Part V: Chapters The Lord s Word Against Foreign Nations, Historical Appendix: Chapter 52 The Fall of Jerusalem 8

10 Lesson 1 C. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND 1. Kings from Fall of Northern Kingdom to Time of a. Hezekiah was a righteous king and cleansed the land of idolatry. b. Manasseh, his son, reversed the process and took Judah lower than it had ever gone. The destruction predicted was traced to the sins of Manasseh. c. Amon, the next king, was also wicked, but reigned only two years. d. Josiah was the last good king and during his reign began his work. 2. Position of world powers: a. Assyria had passed its zenith and was on the wane, losing its empire to Babylon. b. Babylon was rising rapidly in power. c. Egypt, fearful of Babylon, was struggling for control of Palestine as a buffer. 3. Outline of Josiah s reign after becoming king at age of 8: a. Eighth year: Began to seek Jehovah (2 Chron. 34:3) b. Twelfth year: Began purge of idolatry (2 Chron. 34:3-7) c. Thirteenth year: began his work (Jer. 1:2) d. Eighteenth year: As the temple was being renovated, the book of the law was found and the reformation was intensified (2 Chron. 34:8 ff). D. JEREMIAH S PERSONAL INFORMATION 1) He was the son of Hilkiah who was a priest. Like Ezekiel and Zechariah, he was of a priestly family as well as being a prophet. 2) His home was Anathoth, a priestly village located in Benjamin two or three miles northeast of Jerusalem. 3) His name means Jehovah exalts or Jehovah lifts. 4) He was the only prophet of the Old Testament who was forbidden to marry. 5) was the most persecuted of all the prophets; his brethren dealt treacherously with him (12:6); he was confronted by false prophets (14:13); he was cursed (15:10); he was smitten, put in stocks and denounced (20:1ff); he was seized and threatened (26:8,24) ; his teaching was vehemently opposed (28:1ff and 29:1ff); he was imprisoned (32:2,3); he was beaten and imprisoned (37:15); he was thrown into a dungeon (38:6); he was bound in chains ( 40:1); he was falsely accused (43:2) 6) He was a great example of perseverance during a period of great opposition, personal heartbreak and anguish 7) He was a contemporary of Ezekiel and Daniel, but there is no indication they conferred or spent any time together 8) remained in Judah while Daniel was in the capital of Babylon and Ezekiel was among the exiles in rural Babylon 9

11 Lesson 1 E. INSIGHT INTO JEREMIAH S CHARACTER 1) He was called the weeping prophet because of his sympathy for his people. 2) He felt sorrow with God over the people s rejection of God s righteousness. 3) He had a broken heart for the people because he knew the hurt they would suffer due to their departure from God. 4) He felt grief over the heavy burden which he personally had to bear due to his call to prophecy to God s people. 5) Although his life of prophecy was difficult and often discouraging he did not let the obstacles deter him from preaching God s word. 6) He did not let his love for his people keep him from declaring the whole counsel of God to a very unreceptive audience. F. PRACTICAL LESSONS FROM THE BOOK 1) The book stresses the omniscience of God, God knows and sees beyond the realm of human knowledge. 2) When we are willing to be used in God s service, He can take our weaknesses and turn them into strengths. God sees us as what we can become, not what we are. 3) When we forsake our covenant relationship with God we have committed a terrible evil, but we can return with a repentant heart to God. 4) External forms of religion, without true devotion, is worthless. 5) Genuine repentance requires ceasing from evil and returning in faith to God. Either one without the other is incomplete. 6) Sin, in any form, extracts a high price. It ruins internally, externally and (most importantly) eternally. 7) God s righteous cause will triumph over evil. 8) The only hope for the world is in the Messiah and the covenant sealed with His blood. 9) Those who proclaim God s truth, without compromise, will suffer in this life. 10) Every man will have to stand before the Judge and give an account for his life/actions. 10

12 Lesson 1 F. QUESTIONS I. s Introduction (1:1-3) A. s background 1. Who was his father? 2. What was his village? B. Kings under whom prophesied: 1. Which ones does he name? 2. From 2 Kings 23:30 24:18 tell what names of kings are omitted by. Can you suggest a reason? II. s Call (1:4-19) A. The call 1. To whom was appointed to be a prophet? 2. What was his response to the call? 3. What did God do to assure s message was His message? 4. How does this compare to Isaiah s call (Is. 6:1-7) Thought question: In what sense was he set over the nations? Could this explain how Christians now reign with Christ? B. Two visions: 1. The rod from an almond tree (Note: The Hebrew word for almond tree also means awake, watchful. There is a play on words; God reminds with the vision that He is watchful. 2. A boiling pot. From what direction was it poured? What is the significance of this? C. The charge to 1. What was he warned against (17)? 2. What was he to be against the land and its leaders? 11

13 Lesson 1 III. s First Speech (2:1 3:5) A. The devotion of Israel s youth (2:1-3) What period of history does he refer to? B. Israel s Defection 1. What had God done for them? 2. How had they responded to Him? C. Uniqueness of their defection (2:9-13) 1. What had no nation done before? 2. What two evils had Israel committed? a. b. D. Consequences of their defection (2:14-19) E. Israel s passion for idolatry (2:20-25) 1. What had they become (2:20)? 2. To what were they compared in verses 23-24? F. Folly of idolatry (2:26-28) G. Israel s guilt (2:29-37) H. Seven Illustrations God uses to show attitude of His people in 2:20-28 Verse Illustration Reaction/Response of People H. Jehovah s call (3:1-5) 1. What rare thing was He willing to do? 2. What had He done to encourage repentance? 3. How did Israel respond? 12

14 Lesson 2. Rejection of Impenitent Israel Assignment 1st Reading 3:6 6:30 2nd Reading 3:6 6:30, denote verses 3rd Reading 3:6-6:30 answer questions B. INTRODUCTION In the previous lesson we saw s first message calling for repentance. This message came when Josiah s reformation was in progress and outward repentance was visible everywhere. In this lesson, explains the repentance God requires. B. QUESTIONS The Change of Heart Required by True Repentance (3:6 4:4) According to verses 6-11, did the people of Judah learn from the mistakes of their brothers Israel? Who is more righteous between the two kingdoms? What does God plead with the people to do in verses What characteristics of the church do you see in 3:14-19? Judgment Coming on Judah if They Fail to Repent (4:5-31) How does the prophet describe the type of repentance required by the people in the early verses of chapter four? What does God promise to bring upon Judah because of her lack of obedience to Him in verses 5-18? How is the punishment described? 13

15 What is s reaction to the news he must deliver to God s people of the coming events? What is the one word of comfort given in the midst of this great and terrible prophetic word? How are the destroyers described in these verses? The Moral Necessity of Punishment for Such a Nation (Chapter 5) What is challenged to find in the first few verses of chap 5? Does this search remind you of any other OT character who made a similarly unsuccessful search? How extensive was s search? For what kind of man did God say He would spare Jerusalem? How had Judah responded to God s chastening? What did their sin make necessary? What symbols are used to show their destruction inverse 6? What sins of the people are enumerated in verses 7-21? What do these sins tell us about the overall spiritual condition of Judah at this time? Who has suffered the most from the sins of the leaders according to verses 25-29? Who is most responsible for leading the people astray according to the last few verses of chapter 5? What is the reaction of the people to the message from these people? Outcome of the Period of Testing (Chapter 6) What can Judah expect to occur according to the first nine verses of chapter 6 and why will these things come to pass? Is this message received by the people according to verses 10-16? Why or why not (see verses 14)? What does say about the current state of the worship in Judah according to verse 20? Why would this statement be made? What events are described in verses 21-26? 14

16 What role is called to play among the people according to verse 27? What does he find in this role according to the rest of the chapter? What does this tell us about the people of Judah? 15

17 Lesson 3. False Religion and Its Consequences Assignment 1st Reading 7:1 10:25 2nd Reading 7:1 10:25, denote verses 3rd Reading 7:1-10:25 answer questions C. INTRODUCTION A number of 's speeches, sermons or proclamations of what the Lord has declared occurred at the gate of the Lord's House. The word spoken by came from the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel and was addressed to all the men of Judah who entered the gates to worship the Lord. B. QUESTIONS Warning Against False Confidence (7:1 8:3) Where was told to stand and deliver his message to the people? What was reason for delivering this message at this place? What does God say to the people of Judah? What place/events does use as an object lesson for the people who put their trust in the temple? What happened in that place and what is the lesson for Judah? Take note of the if...then statements in the early part of chapter 7. What do these statements tell Judah (and us) about God s expectations of his people? What do verses tell us about the pervasiveness of idolatry among the people of Judah at this time? What is God s reaction to the sinful state of the people and what consequences are coming according to the last few verses of the chapter? How will the conquerors show their disdain for the people of the land according to the first few verses of chapter 8? How will those who survive the onslaught feel about their lives? 16

18 The Commitment to Apostasy was Ruining Judah (8:4 9:1) What does compare the people of Judah to among the animal kingdom? Is the comparison favorable? What accusations are brought against the religious/civic leaders of Judah? What lying words do they tell the people (giving false hope)? What figures of speech does use to show the severity of the coming events in verses 13-17? How does react to his duty to deliver this message of punishment? (9:1) Judah Destroyed for Lack of Knowledge (9:2-11) What does wish he could do according to the first few verses of chapter 9 and where does he want to go? Why do you think he says these things? How does he describe the people of Judah in verses 3-9 and what is God s conclusion in this matter? Wisdom Attained Through Judgment (9:12 10:16) What will be the destiny of the land/people and what are the reasons given for this terrible outcome (12-16)? Who told them many years earlier these things would happen if they did not follow God (Lev 26 and Deut 28)? Who is called to take up a mournful song for the fate of Judah? 17

19 What are the kinds of things that the mourners will speak to the people according to verses 17-22? Why will these things happen to Judah? What is the proper reason for boasting according to the last few verses of the chapter? What will temper/limit this boasting? Who will be subject to God s punishment according to verses 25-26? Who does this include? shows the folly of turning to idols from the living God. How are the idols described as compared to the true and living God in verses 1-16 of chapter 10? The great lesson of judgment and captivity (10:17-25) What is Judah instructed to do when besieged? How do they react (19-20)? What confession do they make (21)? What lesson have they learned (23)? Is not all of this the purpose of God s discipline? What plea does make to God (24)? More questions on back 18

20 Application Questions: Judah had placed their confidence in the wrong things and we can see the results. How we can we avoid making the same mistakes today? We are often very critical (and rightly so) of Judah s turning to idols. What are some idols that may tempt us today? 19

21 Lesson 4. Consequences of Rejecting God's Covenant Assignment 1st Reading 11:1 13:27, 2 Kings nd Reading 11:1 13:27, denote verses 3rd Reading 11:1-13:27 answer questions D. INTRODUCTION This message is thought to be connected with the finding of the law. This is based on verses 2 and 3 where writes "Hear the words of this covenant" and "Cursed is the man who does not hear the words of this covenant." B. QUESTIONS Conspiracy in Judah and its Consequences (Chapter 11) told the people to hear the word of the covenant in the early verses of chapter 11. Based on your knowledge of other scriptures on hearing the word what does really asking them to do? What does remind them about their relationship to God in these verses? Did the people of Judah learn anything from the mistakes of their fathers? What path did they choose? What pattern of behavior do we see in verses 9-17 of the chapter and what were the people constantly pursuing? What did God reveal to in the last six verses of the chapter? Where (and from whom) would the trouble begin for? Who else suffered in this way in the OT and in the NT? 20

22 Complaint Regarding the Prosperity of the Wicked (Chapter 12) Why is raising this great philosophical question(s) raise at the beginning of verse 1 and why is it important to what follows? What seemed to be the position of the wicked? knew he had been serving God, but what had been his own experience? For what had prayed in 11:20? What predictions did his enemies make in 12:4? How does God answer these questions? In answering the question what does God seem to be predicting in verses 5 and 6? What was God suffering (7-9)? What did God say He would do to Judah s evil neighbors after they punished Judah (14)? What does God offer them if they will repent (15-16)? What other OT character received a similar answer to his questions? Humiliation of Judah s Pride (Chapter 13) uses two illustrations in the first 14 verses of the chapter. Briefly describe what was told to do and what lesson the people were supposed to learn. List some of the commands given to the people in verses of this chapter. How do the people react and what are the results? 21

23 Lesson 5. Revelation on the Occasion of Drought Assignment 1st Reading 14:1 17:27 2nd Reading 14:1 17:27, denote verses 3rd Reading 14:1-17:27 answer questions E. INTRODUCTION This message came to during the drought. We do not have a cross reference to note when this occurred. The dating of when the chapters were written put it during the reign of Zedekiah between the first and second deportation. One of the curses of Deuteronomy 28 is drought; 23 And the heavens over your head shall be bronze, and the earth under you shall be iron. 24 The Lord will make the rain of your land powder. From heaven dust shall come down on you until you are destroyed. B. QUESTIONS Uselessness of Intercession (Chapters 14:1 15:9) How is the extent of the devastation from this event described (2-6)? How does react to the word he must deliver in verses 7-9? What can we learn from his example? once again asked God to turn away his anger from the people. What reason does he give in verse 13 and how does God answer him in 14-18? What can we learn from this example? goes to God a third time in verses What are the four reasons he gives to ask God to remove his anger from his people? Do these appear to be strong arguments from a human perspective? What answer does he receive in 15:1? 22

24 The Embattled Prophet Encouraged to Continue his Work (15:10-21) s words from God have caused a very strong reaction from the people in verse 10. What comfort does God offer to in verse 11? What improper attitudes do we see in is verses 15-18? What does God call on him to do verse 19? The Prophet in Relation to Coming Judgment (Chapters 16,17) What three things was specifically prohibited for doing three things in the first nine verses of chapter 16? According to verses 10-18, what was to tell the people when they asked him about the reasons for the coming destruction? The prophet tells us about the extent of the sin of Judah and also draws a contrast between trusting God and placing out trust in uncertain things in verses 1-11 of chapter 17. What illustration shows the foolishness of reliance on things/men? once again prays for deliverance from the difficulties he will continually face in his ministry. What do we learn about him from this and other such passages? How does God answer his prayer? Where is told to go and what as he told to preach to the people in verses 19-27? Write down/comment on the if-then statements in these verses. 23

25 Lesson 6. 's Message in Symbols & the Results Assignment 1st Reading 18:1 20:18 2nd Reading 18:1 20:18, denote verses 3rd Reading 18:1-20:18, answer questions F. INTRODUCTION has used many illustration to help make his point in speaking God s message. This study looks at s use of the Potter and the Clay and the Broken Clay Flask and the reaction to these messages. B. QUESTIONS The Potter and the Clay (Chapters 18) uses another object lesson to teach the people about God s power and rule over the kingdoms of men. What lessons can we draw from chapter 18 verses 1-10? What are the practical applications of the illustration of the potter in the near term for the people of Judah according to verses 11-17? What do the leaders of the people plan to do to cause more pain and anguish for? What does he do in response to their evil actions? 24

26 The Broken Bottle (Chapter 19) was once again told to show the people a message from God using visual aids. What was he told to purchase and what did he do with the object to teach the lesson? What will happen to Judah according verses 6-9? Results of the Last Speech (Chapter 20) Who is the next person who decides to persecute? What does he do to him to show his contempt for him? What does say to him after he is released? describes how he has been treated by his brethren because of his preaching. What does it appear that he is thinking about doing? What keeps him going? 25

27 Lesson 7. Woes to Zedekiah Assignment 1st Reading 21:1 24:10 2 Chronicles 36:1-21 2nd Reading 21:1 24:10, denote verses 3rd Reading 21:1-24:10, answer questions G. INTRODUCTION 21:1 gives the first date since the beginning of the book and changes to a narrative style. Preceding chapters are presumed to pertain mainly to Josiah s reign. Succeeding prophecies are not in chronological order. Some awareness of the history of the period and the kings who reigned is important. Review the chart on the kings who reigned after Josiah. B. QUESTIONS Prophecy during the Siege of Jerusalem (Ch. 21) Who did Zedekiah send to to hear the word of the God and what groups of people do these two represent? What do you think Zedekiah assumed would be the word of the Lord in his present distress? ( See Isaiah 37:1-7) What answer was told to give to Zedekiah concerning his request for help? What does God say he would do through the agency of the invaders from Babylon? Will the invaders take any prisoners? What was the best course of action for the people of Judah according to verses 8-10 and does this seem to be unusual advice? What do you think would be the reaction to this recommendation from the prophet? 26

28 According to verses of chapter 21, what two things was the king of Judah told to do which could have possibly averted the coming disaster for the hand of Babylon? Prophecies Regarding Kings and Leaders (Ch ) What will be the fate of Shallum (Jehoahaz) the son of Josiah? In what country did he end his life? (2 Kings 23:30-34) How did Jehoiakim (Eliakim) become king of Judah? How is he rule described and what would be the reaction when he was forced from the throne? How is his burial described in verse 19? What would be the fate of Coniah (Jehoiachin) and his descendents? How was his rule described (figuratively) but what would happen to the symbol of his rule? Did any of his sons (David s seed) ever rule in Jerusalem after him? What warning was given to the people concerning the prophets who were in the land at the same time as? What was the source of their message and why would they preach this message? Vision of the Baskets (Chapter 24) What do the baskets of good figs and the bad figs seen by in chapter 24 represent? What elements of destruction are once again promised to the people of Judah in verse 10 of chapter 24? 27

29 Lesson 8. 's Prophecy of 70 Years Assignment 1st Reading nd Reading 25 29, denote verses 3rd Reading 25-29, answer questions H. INTRODUCTION In 605 B.C. the Babylonians defeated Egypt at Carchemesh, attacked Jerusalem and carried away the first of three groups of prominent people this one including Daniel. recognized this as the beginning of the end for Judah but sought to avert future destruction by the preaching done in this section. The fourth year of Jehoiakim s reign, which was 605 B.C., was a pivotal year in the history of Judah. B. QUESTIONS s First Announcement of 70 years of Domination (Ch. 25) Babylonian How long had been prophesying to Judah according to the first few verses of chapter 25? Was was the only one telling the people the truth? What was the result? What important declaration does make about the captivity in Babylon according to verses 8-14? How does he refer to Nebuchadnezzar and does this seem strange? What will be Babylon s fate? Message of and Response of People early in Jehoiakim s reign (Ch. 26) Where does deliver his next speech according to the first seven verses of chapter 26? What important lesson is he told to speak? What is the reaction of the prophets and the priests to s word from God according to verses 8-19? What was his defense for the message he spoke? 28

30 Who came to his aid and why? Who does Jehoiakim put to death according to the last few verses of chapter 26? What does this tell us about the king s attitude toward God and His word s messengers? Mapping the Wrath of God The Lord, the God of Israel told to Take from my hand this cup of the wine of wrath, and make all the nations to whom I send you drink it. Then he is to say to them, Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Drink, be drunk and vomit, fall and rise no more, because of the sword that I am sending among you. The figure is not an infrequent one with the prophets and the psalmists (Jer 49:12; 51:7; Is 51:17, 22; Ez ;Hab 1:16; Ps 60:3; 75:8). Some of the places are familiar to bible students while others are not. Find and mark the following locations mentioned in 25:18-26 on the provided maps. Also mark the nations that 's spoke to while in a yoke mentioned in 27:3 Nations to Whom Cup of Wrath will be Poured Out # Map Name Comment/Description 1 A Jerusalem 2 A the cities of Judah 3 B Pharaoh king of Egypt 4 B all the kings of the land of Uz Job was a man of Uz - Job 1:1, Edomites dwell in the land of Uz (Lam 4:21) 5 A all the kings of the land of the Philistines (Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and the remnant of Ashdod) 6 A Edom Edom, "red," In Gen 36:8 Esau is equated with Edom as dwelling in Mt. Seir; and is father of Edom (Heb 36:9). 7 A Moab The eldest son of Lot (Gen. 19:37), of incestuous birth 8 A Sons of Ammon The younger son of Lot (Gen. 19:38), of incestuous birth 9 A all the kings of Tyre 10 A all the kings of Sidon the kings of the coastland across the sea 11 B Dedan, Tema, Buz Elihu was a Buzite (Job 32:2); 12 B all the kings of Arabia all the kings of the mixed tribes who dwell in the desert 13 B all the kings of Zimri 14 B all the kings of Elam 15 B all the kings of Media/Medes all the kings of the north, far and near, 16 B And after them the king of (Sheshach) Babylon shall drink 29

31 Ekron. Ashkelon. 30

32 Uz 31. Dedan Buz. Arabia MAJOR PROPHETS

33 Controversy Regarding s Prophecy of 70 years (Ch ) Who did Babylon serve in verse 6 as they conquered the nations? Who is given a warning in verses of chapter 27? Who is given a warning in verses 16 of chapter 27? What does tell them to do in verse 12 and 16? Who was speaking dangerous lies in verses 14-17? What final word of hope is given in verse 22 of the chapter? Who challenges the truth of s prophecy about Judah s captivity in verse 1? What was his prediction (28:2-4)? How does he show contempt for s message in verse 10? What did do in response to the challenge in verse 11? What happened to Hananiah in verse 17 within a year of showing contempt for 's message? What is s message in verses 4 to 7 of chapter 29 to those taken into captivity? What prophecy is re-told in verses 10-14? 32

34 Lesson 9. Jehovah's "Good Word" Concerning Future Assignment 1st Reading nd Reading 30 33, denote verses 3rd Reading 30-33, answer questions I. INTRODUCTION One part of the overall view, or paradigm of the prophets is God's Redemption and Restoration. This is easy to understand in light of God s eventual purpose to redeem man from sin under the new covenant. In there has been limited demonstration of the promised restoration that is part of the prophets. In this lesson is told to write in a book all the words spoken to him. "For behold, days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will restore the fortunes of my people, Israel and Judah, says the Lord, and I will bring them back to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall take possession of it. B. QUESTIONS Words concerning Israel and Judah (Chapter 30:1 31:40) What three promises do we see in the first nine verses of chapter 30? 1) 2) 3) How is the sinful state of Judah described in verses 12-17? What eternal and surpassing promise do we see in verses 21 and 22? Do you think the people spoke to focused more on the promises in 18 or 21? What does the phrase at that time and my people in verse one of chapter 31 mean (review Jer 30:24)? What is foretold in verses 31:7-14? and where is verse 15 quoted in the New Testament? What eternal principle of God s laws through the ages do we see stated in verses 29-30? 33

35 s Purchase of Hanamel s Field (Chapter 32) Where do we find in the first few verses of chapter 32? Who was at the gates of the city and what does tell the king about his longevity? What does do according to verses 6-15? Does this appear to be a rationale decision from a human standpoint? What is the point of 's prayer in verses 16 to 25? Jehovah s answer to is recorded in verses What did God say the Babylonians would do to Jerusalem? 2. What promises does He make in verse 37-42? 3. What real estate activity was to be expected in the future? More Restoration Promises (Chapter 33) Where do we find at the beginning of chapter 33? What word of hope do we see in verses 4-5 of the chapter? What word of hope do we see in verses 6-9 of the chapter? What promises do we see in verses of the chapter? What blessing do we see in verses 14-18? Do you think the people who read/heard this prophecy understood the true meaning of these verses? 34

36 Lesson 10. Conquest & Destruction of Judah - Events to Fall Assignment 1st Reading nd Reading 34 39, denote verses 3rd Reading 34-39, answer questions J. INTRODUCTION We have seen s predictions of the fall of Jerusalem in this lesson the fulfillment of these predictions are told. In chapter 34 to 36 we see three different attitudes, the attitude of the people toward keeping the Sabbath year, the good example of the Rechabites and Jehoiakim's burns 's scroll. The latter part of the lesson deals with the events during the final siege and 's imprisonment and the cowardice of Zedekiah. B. QUESTIONS Words Attitudes During the reigns of Jehoiakim and Zedekiah (Chapter 34-36) What was the state of Jerusalem as chapter 34 opens? What message of hope is part of the word of God to Zedekiah is given in verses 4-5 after he his told Jerusalem will fall? What is Zedekiah's reaction to the news about the fate of the city? What happens when the Babylonian army has a distraction and withdraws form the city (11,15-16)? From what will they be free and to what will they become a slave (17)? Whom does show as an example of sincere and whole-hearted obedience in chapter 35? What command(s) did they obey (vs 8-9)? What promise was made to the Rechabites at the end of the chapter? Who was the scribe for according to the first few verses of chapter 36? What was the scribe told to do and where was he to go in verse 6? What does Jehoiakim do when he hears the word of God? What promises does God make in reaction to Jehoiakim's actions? 35

37 Experiences and Words of During Siege and Capture of Jerusalem (Chap ) What does tell the king about the help from Egypt and the fate of Jerusalem? Where is at the end of chapter 37? Who asks for permission to kill in chapter 38 and what reasons do they give for the request? How does the king respond to their request and what do we see about his character? What do these men do with and who comes to his rescue? Why did he risk his life to rescue? Where does remain until the city is taken? What advise does repeat to the king in their final conversation in verses 14 through 23 of chapter 38? Did he listen? How does the courageous king react to all these things? What happens to the king, his family and the nobles of Judah? 36

38 Lesson 11. Conquest & Destruction of Judah - After Fall Assignment 1st Reading nd Reading 40 45, denote verses 3rd Reading 40-45, answer questions K. INTRODUCTION In this lesson we follow from being taking bound in chains to Ramah, judged and set free to join Gedaliah at Mizpah with those who still remain in the land. Gedaliah gathers guerrilla fighters and others who were scattered during the siege and represents them before the Chaldeans. He is murdered and those murders go to and plead for him to inquire of the Lord if they should go down to Egypt. In this event we see the true of the statement that the bad figs have remained in the land. B. QUESTIONS Governorship and Assassination of Gedaliah (Chapters 40-41) What choice does he give to and what alternative does he choose? Who is given the position of governor over the cities of Judah? Where do we hear about him and his family earlier in the book? What happens when the people hear who is the new governor? Who warns the governor about a plot against his life? Who is behind the plot and how does the governor react to this news? Why do you think he reacted in this way? What happens to Gedaliah and to all those who were with him? What can we learn about the important role of leaders among God s people? 37

39 The Word of Jehovah Concerning the Flight to Egypt (Chapter 42) What do the people ask according to the first few verses? Does their request seem somewhat ironic? According to verses 7-22, what answer does receive from God? Was this a test of their faith? s Prediction of Nebuchadnezzer s Invasion of Egypt (Chapter 43) How do the people react to the word of God from according to the first few verses? Does this reaction seem typical of the people of Judah? What was told to do according to verses 8-10? What object lesson was he to teach the people using this visual aid? Who will serve God in the conquest of the Egyptians? Message Concerning the Idolatry of the Jews in Egypt (Chapter 44) What events does recount for the people who fled Judah and are dwelling in Egypt? What questions does ask in verses 7-9? What will be the fate of the people who fled to Egypt according to verses 12-14? What do the men tell after his warning to them (vs 15-18)? What do the women tell after his warning to them (vs 19)? What does tell them about their line of reasoning according to verses 20-23? Appendix: A Message to Baruch (Chapter 45) Note: Chapter 44 is apparently the last message delivered by. The following chapters seem to be Baruch s record of speeches had made before Jehoiakim burned the scroll (See 36:1,4,32). This message to Baruch is dated the same year the 4 th of Jehoiakim. Why was Baruch troubled according to the first few verses of chapter 45? What was God s word of rebuke and comfort to him? 38

40 It is helpful to know the following locations 1. Gedaliah governed from Mizpah (northern border of Judah) mark this city with a star. 2. He gathered Jews who had scattered during the invasion of the Babylonians (Jer 40:11). Highlight the countries of Edom, Moab, and Ammon. 3. After Ishmael killed Gedaliah his plan was to flee to Ammon. Johanan caught up with him at Gibeon where he abandoned the people he had taken from Mizpah and fled to Ammon. Mark Gibeon with a square box and draw a line from Mizpah to Gibeon. 4. The people then fled to outside of Bethlehem (south of Jerusalem) in preparation to head to Egypt/ Mark Bethlehem with a square and draw a line from Gibeon to Bethlehem. 5. After asking for and then refusing to hear God s word on what they should do the people fled to Egypt and went as far as Tahpanhes (Jer 43:7) On the next page mark a line from Mizpah to Gibeon and then to Bethlehem and then down to Tahpanhes in Egypt. 6. Gibeon. 39

41 . Migdol. Tapanhes. Mizpah. Bethlehem Gibeon. 40

42 Lesson 12. Jehovah's Judgment on Nations Assignment 1st Reading nd Reading 46 49, denote verses 3rd Reading 46-49, answer questions L. INTRODUCTION In this lesson we continue to look at the Appendix sections of the book of. Chapters 46 to 49 could be considered Appendix B deals with judgments made against the nations of Egypt, Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Syria, Arabia, and Elam. Similar collections of judgments may be found in Is , Ezek and Amos 1:1-2:3. See the chart in the reference section of the listing of judgments against the nations. B. QUESTIONS Prophecies Concerning Egypt (Chapter 46) What happens to the well-prepared and well-equipped army in verses 5 and 6? How are the forces of Egypt compared to in verse 8? Who determined the outcome of the battle in verse 10? Who will be the agent of God s judgment against Egypt in verses 13-18? What will be the fate of all the nobles and false gods (which god is named) of Egypt in verses What about Judah(last two verses of chap. 46)? Prophecy Concerning the Philistines (Chapter 47) When was this prophecy given? Where will their destruction originate and how is the description similar to the illustration in 1:13-15? What will these men do to get their gods to help them according to verse 5 - worship of what god was this practice associated with in I Kings 18:27-28? Who was to be responsible for defeat of Philistia in verse 7? 41