Old Testament
Jeremiah 42:15
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then listen to the word of the LORD, you remnant of Judah. The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'If you are determined to go to Egypt and settle there,
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And now therefore hear the word of the LORD, ye remnant of Judah; Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; If ye wholly set your faces to enter into Egypt, and go to sojourn there;
What Jeremiah 42:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the remnant of Judah, urging them to listen to His message. He acknowledges their desire to escape to Egypt for safety and stability. However, God warns them that this choice is not aligned with His will. The phrase 'set your faces' indicates a strong determination to go to Egypt, suggesting that they are resolute in their decision. God, through the prophet Jeremiah, is emphasizing that turning to Egypt for refuge is a mistake. Instead of seeking help from a foreign land, they should trust in Him. This message serves as a reminder that reliance on human solutions can lead to further problems, especially when it goes against divine guidance. The remnant is being called to reconsider their plans and to seek God's direction rather than following their own understanding. This verse highlights the importance of listening to God's word and the consequences of ignoring His guidance in favor of worldly solutions.
How to apply Jeremiah 42:15 to your life
In our lives, we often face decisions that may seem safe or appealing, like the remnant of Judah seeking refuge in Egypt. This verse reminds us to seek God's guidance in our choices. Instead of relying solely on our understanding, we should pray and listen for God's direction, trusting that He knows what is best for us.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: Taken to Egypt (Jeremiah 42:1–43:7)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 42:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 42:15 mean?
Jeremiah 42:15 conveys God's message to the remnant of Judah, urging them to listen to His warning against fleeing to Egypt for safety. God emphasizes that their determination to seek refuge in a foreign land is misguided and not in line with His will.
What is the significance of 'set your faces' in Jeremiah 42:15?
The phrase 'set your faces' in Jeremiah 42:15 indicates a strong and resolute determination by the remnant of Judah to go to Egypt. It highlights their commitment to this decision, which God warns them against, emphasizing the need to reconsider their plans.
How does Jeremiah 42:15 apply to our lives today?
Jeremiah 42:15 teaches us to seek God's guidance in our decisions rather than relying solely on our understanding. It encourages us to pray and listen for divine direction, especially when faced with choices that seem appealing but may not align with God's will.
What warning does God give in Jeremiah 42:15?
In Jeremiah 42:15, God warns the remnant of Judah that their plan to go to Egypt for safety is a mistake. He emphasizes that turning to a foreign land for refuge goes against His guidance and could lead to further problems.
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