Jeremiah 42:1-43:7 – SEEKING GOD’S WILL?
The Kingdom of Judah had been conquered by Nebuchadnezzar.
Jerusalem had been destroyed with many people either killed or taken captive.
A governor had been appointed, and murdered.
Fearing King Nebuchadnezzar’s retaliation, some came to the prophet, Jeremiah, supposedly seeking the will of God. But were they?
PROMISING INQUIRY – 42:1-3, 5-6
The leaders came to Jeremiah asking him to inquire to God, seeking God’s will. They promised to obey whatever God said.
PERSISTENT INTERCESSION – 42:4, 7
Jeremiah promised to pray faithfully, hear from God, and report faithfully. After 10 days, Jeremiah had an answer from God.
PARTICULAR INSTRUCTION – 42:8-19
God promised blessing if the people stayed in the land.
God promised problems if they fled to Egypt.
PROFOUND INDICTMENT – 42:20-22
God knew the hearts of those who inquired. Their minds were already made up to go to Egypt no matter what God said.
PERVERTED INSURRECTION – 43:1-7
As God had said, the people rebelled against Jeremiah, accused him of lying, and went to Egypt. They even carried Jeremiah off with them.
Were they really seeking God’s will? No!