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Rebellion Continues but God Still Speaks

Jeremiah 41-45

After the fall of Jerusalem and the appointment of Gedaliah as governor, Ishmael—a descendant of the royal family—assassinates Gedaliah and slaughters many Judeans and Babylonians. His violent ambition leads to national instability. Johanan confronts Ishmael, rescues the captives, and begins leading the remnant toward Egypt for safety. This chapter illustrates the tragic consequences of pride, revenge, and disobedience. Even after God's judgment, many continue to reject His ways. The chapter reminds us that sin often brings more chaos and suffering when we fail to learn from correction.

After the chaos caused by Ishmael, the people seek Jeremiah’s guidance, claiming they will obey whatever the Lord commands. Jeremiah prays and receives God’s answer ten days later: remain in the land and God will protect and bless them. But if they flee to Egypt, they will face sword, famine, and pestilence. Despite their words of obedience, their hearts are not sincere. The chapter reveals the importance of waiting for God’s direction and obeying it fully. True submission means trusting God’s plan even when it seems risky or uncomfortable.

Rather than obeying God’s clear instruction to remain in Judah, the people accuse Jeremiah of lying and lead the remnant into Egypt. They take Jeremiah and Baruch with them against their will. In Egypt, Jeremiah prophesies that Nebuchadnezzar will conquer Egypt as well and that the very judgment they tried to escape will follow them. This chapter shows how rebellion against God’s Word leads to further ruin. When people harden their hearts, they often blame others rather than face the truth. Even when surrounded by clear guidance, pride can still lead people astray.

In Egypt, Jeremiah confronts the people for continuing to burn incense to the queen of heaven and practice idolatry. Despite their past suffering in Jerusalem, they stubbornly argue that they will keep worshiping false gods. Jeremiah warns them that this disobedience will bring more judgment. The chapter reveals the human tendency to cling to false security rather than trust the living God. It also highlights God’s consistent call to repentance. Even in Egypt, God reaches out through Jeremiah, proving His desire for restoration. Yet many still refuse to listen.

This brief chapter contains a message to Baruch, Jeremiah’s faithful scribe. Baruch is discouraged and overwhelmed by all the suffering around him. God speaks to his heart, reminding him not to seek great things for himself but to trust in God's promise to preserve his life. This personal message in the midst of national judgment reminds us that God sees the individual. He cares for the faithful servant even when the world around is falling apart. Baruch is called to humility and endurance, just as we are when times are hard.

In these chapters, the pattern of rejecting God’s Word continues even after judgment has fallen. The people promise obedience but quickly turn to their own understanding. They run from God’s will, turn back to idols, and blame others for their hardship. Yet in the middle of it all, God continues to speak. His Word remains clear and His care personal. Baruch’s story stands in contrast to the people’s rebellion—showing that even in judgment, God sustains the one who trusts in Him. These chapters challenge us to truly listen, trust, and follow God’s voice even when others around us do not.

Reflection Questions:

  • Why is it dangerous to say we will obey God while still clinging to our own plans

  • What does God’s persistence in speaking through Jeremiah reveal about His character

  • How can we avoid repeating the mistakes of those who refused to wait or listen to God

  • In what ways does Baruch’s story encourage us to remain faithful in seasons of discouragement

  • What idols or false securities might we be tempted to trust instead of trusting God’s Word