Jeremiah 26:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 26:19
19 Did Hezekiah king of Judah and all Judah put him at all to death? did he not fear the LORD, and besought the LORD, and the LORD repented him of the evil which he had pronounced against them? Thus might we procure great evil against our souls.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 26 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, sacrifice, truth. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 26:19
19 Did Hezekiah king of Judah and all Judah put him at all to death? did he not fear the LORD, and besought the LORD, and the LORD repented him of the evil which he had pronounced against them? Thus might we procure great evil against our souls.
Analysis
The elders recall how King Hezekiah responded to Micah's prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction - he 'feared the LORD, and besought the LORD, and the LORD repented him of the evil.' This historical precedent argues for Jeremiah's life. Godly fear of God's word leads to repentance, which may avert judgment. This contrasts with current leaders who want to kill the prophet rather than heed his message.
Historical Context
Micah prophesied around 100 years before Jeremiah (Micah 3:12). Hezekiah's humble response (2 Chr 32:26) provided a model of how kings should receive prophetic rebuke.
Reflection
- How does remembering God's past mercies inform present responses to His word?
- What's the difference between silencing God's messenger and heeding God's message?
Word Studies
- Repent: שׁוּב / נָחַם (Shuv / Nacham) H5162 - To turn back, relent
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Isaiah 37:1, 37:4
- Repentance: Exodus 32:14, 2 Samuel 24:16
- Parallel theme: Acts 5:39