Jeremiah 42: The Remnant Seeks God’s Guidance

Introduction: Jeremiah  42 tells the story of the remnant of Judah seeking guidance from the Lord through the prophet Jeremiah. The people are at a crossroads, and their decision will impact their future. They are seeking direction on whether to stay in Judah or flee to Egypt. This chapter reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance in times of uncertainty, as well as the consequences of disobedience.

I. Jeremiah 42:1-3: Seeking Guidance
The remnant of Judah, including the military leaders and people, approach Jeremiah seeking guidance from the Lord. They acknowledge Jeremiah as a prophet and ask him to pray to God on their behalf, promising to obey whatever God commands. This section highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance in difficult times.
Cross reference verses:

• Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
• James 1:5: If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
• 1 Samuel 23:2: David inquired of the Lord, saying, “Shall I go and attack these Philistines?” And the Lord said to David, “Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah.”

II. Jeremiah 42:4-6: Commitment to Obey
Jeremiah agrees to pray to the Lord on behalf of the people, and they reiterate their commitment to obey God’s commands, whether it is favorable or unfavorable. These verses emphasize the importance of submitting to God’s will and being obedient to His guidance.
Cross reference verses:

• Deuteronomy 5:32-33: So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you.
• Psalm 119:60: I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands.
• Acts 5:29: Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!”

III. Jeremiah 42:7-12: The Lord’s Response
After ten days, the Lord gives Jeremiah a response for the people. God warns them not to go to Egypt and promises to protect and provide for them if they remain in Judah. These verses reinforces the idea that God’s guidance is for our protection and provision.
Cross reference verses:

• Isaiah 30:1-2: Woe to the obstinate children,” declares the Lord, “to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting me.
• Psalm 32:8: I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
• Matthew 6:33: But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

IV. Jeremiah 42:13-22: The Consequences of Disobedience
God warns the people of the consequences if they choose to disobey and go to Egypt. He declares that the very things they fear, such as war, famine, and death, will follow them to Egypt. These verses serves remind the believer that disobedience to God’s guidance can lead to dire consequences.
Cross reference verses:

• Galatians 6:7-8: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
• Proverbs 14:12: There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.
• Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Conclusion: Jeremiah 42 teaches the believer of the importance of seeking and obeying God’s guidance. The chapter teaches us that God’s guidance is for our protection and provision, and disobedience can lead to unwanted consequences. As believers, we must commit to seeking the Lord’s will in all things and trust that His plans are for our good, and the good of all around us. Let us be like the remnant of Judah, seeking God’s guidance in times of uncertainty and committing to obey and trust His commands.