Jeremiah 22:13-23

Read Jeremiah 22:13-23

Helpful Background Information:

• The book of Jeremiah is all about Jeremiah’s message and ministry to the people of Judah in the southern kingdom. This was during the time when the people of Israel, in the northern kingdom, had already been taken into captivity. Israel had been split in two after the death of king Solomon. Jeremiah was the son of a priest who prophesied during Judah’s last forty years before God used Babylon to judge Judah (627-586 BC). His life was full of opposition and yet devoted faithfulness. 

• Jehoiakim was king over Judah and did not lead the people of Judah faithfully. His idolatry and arrogance led him to live in opposition to God. In Jeremiah 22:13-23, The Lord denounces Jehoiakim for this and declares that Jehoiakim would die disgracefully.

• In verses 15 and 23, there is reference to the extravagant use of cedar by Jehoiakim. Cedar was expensive and was exported from Lebanon. Lebanon cedar was used in the construction of Solomon’s temple, David’s palace, one of Solomon’s palaces, and in part of the construction of the second temple. Overall, cedar was an item of luxury and wealth. 
  

Reflection Questions: 

• Review 2 Chronicles 35:7-9 and Jeremiah 22:15-16. How was Jehoiakim’s use of wealth different from Josiah? What role do finances and generosity play in faithful leadership?

• In verses 15-16, it is noted that everything went well for Josiah after being faithful to the Lord. How does this statement relate to his untimely death in 2 Chronicles 35:20-25?

• There are two different outcomes that these two kings, Josiah and Jehoiakim, result in. On one hand there is a righteous leader who sought the Lord, and on the other there is an evil man who lived for his own personal gain. In what ways can your walk with the Lord look like Josiah, being humble and righteous? How can you rely on the grace of Jesus in this?