Friday, January 24 – Jeremiah 22, 23
Study Questions:
1. What warning did the Lord give to the king of Judah and his court? (Jeremiah 22:3)
2. How does the message describe the rebellious Coniah? (Jeremiah 22:30)
3. Who is the “righteous Branch” of David, and what will His name be? (Jeremiah 23:5, 6)
Commentary and Reflection:
Chapters 22 and 23 of Jeremiah are part of the second section of prophetic messages containing warnings of judgment against four wicked kings of Judah and their false prophets. These kings were Jehoiakim, Zedekiah, Shallum (also known as Jehoahaz, son of Josiah), and Coniah (also known as Jehoiachin).
Jeremiah presents the true Messiah in contrast to these wicked kings. When God’s voice of correction came against the sin and apostasy of Judah’s rulers, they often turned against the messenger, in this case, the prophet Jeremiah. The lesson for us today is clear: we must not be deaf or stubborn when God’s Word exhorts or corrects us for behavior or attitudes contrary to His will.
As we’ve seen in previous chapters, God used Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian Empire as instruments of judgment and discipline against Judah. In Jeremiah 22, the Lord sends a direct message to the king of Judah about the consequences of his actions. However, this prophecy is conditional, showing God’s grace and willingness to offer second chances.
The hardness of the heart demonstrated by these kings is difficult to comprehend. Despite clear warnings from God through His prophets, they stubbornly persisted in committing crimes against their people. Regarding Shallum (Jehoahaz), the Lord contrasts him with his righteous father, King Josiah. Josiah acted with justice and righteousness, defending the rights of the poor and oppressed, embodying what it means to know God.
However, the indictment against Jehoiakim is sharp and painful: “But your eyes and your heart are for nothing but your covetousness, for shedding innocent blood, and practicing oppression and violence” (Jeremiah 22:17). The judgment pronounced upon Jehoiakim is grim, he would be buried with the burial of a donkey, dragged out and cast beyond the gates of Jerusalem (v.19).
The following verses (20–23) carry a message about Jerusalem. There is a note of divine sorrow as God laments the consequences Judah must face for its rebellion.
The following verses (20–23) carry a message about Jerusalem. There is a note of divine sorrow as God laments the consequences Judah must face for its rebellion.
The following message addresses King Coniah (Jehoiachin). God declares his fate plainly: “I will give you into the hand of those who seek your life, and into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon” (Jeremiah 22:25).
In Jeremiah 23, the prophet delivers five key messages primarily aimed at condemning the negligence and corruption of the shepherds (leaders) of God’s people. In the opening verses, the Lord declares: “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!” (v.1).
However, even amidst judgment, God gives a message of hope for the future. He promises to gather His scattered remnant, bring them back to their pasture, and appoint shepherds who will genuinely care for them: “I will set up shepherds over them who will feed them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, nor shall they be lacking” (v.4).
The most glorious promise follows: the coming of the righteous King, the Messiah. This King will reign wisely and execute justice and righteousness on earth. His name will be: “The Lord Our Righteousness” (v.6). This promise was fulfilled in the person of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We give thanks because Christ is our righteousness and salvation.
Verses 9–17 describe the false prophets who misled the people. Jeremiah warns that these prophets will face misery and shame. The prophet’s heart is broken, and he feels overwhelmed, trembling like a drunken man under the weight of God’s words against these false prophets.
We must ask ourselves: Are we listening to messages that may sound impressive but are not genuinely sent by the Lord?
The final section (verses 33–40) warns us to discern between false prophetic messages and those that genuinely come from God.
The messages delivered through Jeremiah remain relevant for every era. The hope, warning, and consolation they contain are timeless. God’s promises of restoration and His call to righteousness should guide us daily.
May these reflections strengthen our faith and inspire us to walk faithfully with God.
May God’s consolation and hope be with you today.
Professor Javier Diaz