Jeremiah·Chapter 28

How to Apply

To live out this verse, start by identifying one area of your life where you feel hopeless or stuck. Then, take a moment to express your hopes and dreams for that situation, just like Jeremiah did. Write down what you wish could happen or how you want things to change. Make it a daily practice to revisit these hopes, speaking them out loud or praying about them. Surround yourself with people who encourage your belief in better days ahead—share your hopes and listen to theirs. This week, take a small step toward that hope, whether it’s reaching out for support or making a plan for change.

Chapter Context

This moment comes right after a tense exchange between Jeremiah and another prophet named Hananiah. Hananiah had boldly declared that the people would soon be freed from their Babylonian captivity, but Jeremiah adds a layer of depth here. His response, 'Amen!' isn’t just a polite agreement; it’s a passionate endorsement of hope. This moment shifts the narrative from mere prophecy to a collective belief in restoration. It sets the stage for what’s to come, where the promise of recovery and return becomes a rallying cry for everyone waiting in despair. Jeremiah’s words here are like the spark that ignites a flame of hope in the hearts of the exiles.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• prophet - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jeremiah - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• said - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• amen - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• do - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• so - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• words - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does it mean for you to believe in something better when you’re feeling hopeless?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 40:1 - This verse speaks comfort to the people, encouraging them that they will be cared for after their struggles, much like how Jeremiah encourages hope.
• Ezekiel 36:24 - Here, God promises to gather His people from all nations, reinforcing the hope of restoration and return, which connects to Jeremiah’s vision of returning the exiles.
• Zechariah 1:17 - This verse shares a message of hope for Jerusalem, promising that the city will be restored, echoing the sentiments Jeremiah expresses in his affirmation.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Jeremiah 28:6. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

True vs. False Prophecy, Judgment and Consequences, Hope vs. Reality, Public vs. Private Faith, Divine Authority, Trust and Deception

Key Verses

Jeremiah 28:9, Jeremiah 28:15, Jeremiah 28:16, Jeremiah 28:17

Historical Context

Jeremiah 28 is situated during a critical period in Judah's history as the nation faces impending doom from Babylon. Zedekiah is the last king of Judah, ruling during a time of spiritual and political turmoil. The prophetic ministry of Jeremiah is contrasted with that of Hananiah, who represents a popular, yet false, voice offering immediate hope without acknowledging the nation's sin. This chapter illustrates the struggle between genuine prophetic words that call for repentance and the allure of messages that promise peace without accountability.