Welcome back to Bible Gateway’s weekly Look at the Book series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. The prophet Jeremiah presents a dire outlook for the nation of Judah ahead of the Babylonian invasion.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Jeremiah warns the people to stop committing adultery, using perverted worship practices, and turning away from God in general. Jeremiah’s persecution and suffering increase as God’s judgment approaches — he is actually in chains when the Babylonians take over Jerusalem.
- Category: Prophets
- Theme: Judgment
- Timeline: ca. 626-561 BC
- Written: Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
Key Verse
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Read Becky Kiser’s commentary on this verse.
From Grief to Hope
God shows himself willing to spare and bless the nation if the people repent. Though this is a frequent emphasis, it is most graphically portrayed at the potter’s shop (18:1-11).
Jeremiah’s words drip with grief over the spiritual state of Judah. But Jeremiah’s writings are not without hope. Because of God’s faithful love for his people, God would bring the people back into right relationship.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: Jeremiah 1-9
- Day 2: Jeremiah 10-18
- Day 3: Jeremiah 19-27
- Day 4: Jeremiah 28-35
- Day 5: Jeremiah 36-43
- Day 6: Jeremiah 44-52
- Day 7: Lamentations 1-5
Not Popular
Jeremiah was so unpopular among his contemporaries, some thought he was employed by Babylon.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.
