Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for August 13, 2023

So, You Want to Go Back to Egypt?

Jeremiah 42:1-43:7

1. Background

• events after the fall of Jerusalem (Jer. 40-45)
• Jeremiah imprisoned and then released (40:1-6)

2. A Request from the People 1-6

• people in Jerusalem after the exile
• their plan to “escape” to Egypt
• Jeremiah’s agreement to pray
• pious display of sincerity

3. Jeremiah’s Response to the People 7-22

• waiting to discern the LORD’S message
• if they stay in the land…compassion
• if they go to Egypt…catastrophe
• exposure of a fatal flaw

4. Rejection of Jeremiah’s Message 1-7

• arrogant accusation against a true prophet
• a disobedient entrance into Egypt

5. So What?

• In light of His promised presence and clear communication, obey the Lord eagerly.
• connection to Christ: John 14:6, 15; Col. 3:15-17
• “Those who reject what they know to be the will of God always invite disaster.” (Huey)
• “They regarded God as a power to enlist, not a Lord to obey.” (Kidner)
• “Here I raise my ebenezer…” (Robinson, “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”)
• “May the word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdom to capture your hearts for Christ, to comfort your hearts in Christ and to humble your hearts before Christ. Amen.” (Davis)