Skip to main content

Jeremiah-28

The False Prophet: A Devotional Study on Jeremiah 28​

Introduction​

The book of Jeremiah is a powerful testament to God's faithfulness and the prophet's unwavering obedience. In Jeremiah 28, we witness a significant event in the prophet's ministry. Hananiah, a false prophet, gains prominence in King Zedekiah's court, prompting Jeremiah to challenge his words. As we explore Jeremiah 28, let's learn about the risks and rewards of standing for truth and upholding the Word of God.

Section 1: Hananiah's False Prophecy (Jeremiah 28:1-11)​

Devotional Thought: Hananiah captures the attention of King Zedekiah with his false prophecy, promising that Babylon will be conquered within two years. Hananiah's words reek of human pride, and his prophecy is rooted in his own will rather than God's. Today, let's consider our own motives behind sharing words of prophecy. Do we seek to validate our own will or to share the Word of God faithfully?

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we differentiate between words inspired by God and words inspired by our own will?
  • How can we ensure our prophetic ministry is rooted in God's Word, rather than our own desires?

Section 2: Jeremiah's Response (Jeremiah 28:12-17)​

Devotional Thought: Jeremiah's response to Hananiah is swift and true. Jeremiah knows that God's Word is more reliable than human promises, and it's vital to share it faithfully. Jeremiah is bold in his witness, declaring God's truth to Hananiah and the king. Today, let's take heed of Jeremiah's courage, following his example in upholding God's Word.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we uphold God's Word faithfully, even when it's not popular or favorable?
  • How can we be as bold as Jeremiah in sharing God's truth?

Section 3: Hananiah's Response to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 28:18-23)​

Devotional Thought: Hananiah's response to Jeremiah's truth reveals his pride when he places a curse on the prophet. Hananiah's false prophecy may have captured the king's attention, but Jeremiah's unwavering faithfulness to God's Word persists despite the consequences. Today, let's consider the rewards of standing for God's truth despite the backlash.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we remain steadfast in sharing God's truth, even when it's not popular or favorable?
  • How can we honor the consequences of standing for truth without bitterness or retaliation?

Section 4: The Reality of God's Prophetic Word (Jeremiah 28:24-28, 29:1)​

Devotional Thought: The chapter concludes with God's own prophecy to Jeremiah, revealing that His Word will stand in spite of Hananiah's false prophecy. God's Word is reliable and trustworthy, and even when people refuse to listen, it remains true. May we trust in the power of God's Word to triumph, despite the challenges and resistance.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we deepen our trust in God's Word, even when it's not immediate or apparent?
  • In what ways can we ensure our understanding of God's Word is reliable and unwavering?

Conclusion:​

Through Jeremiah 28, we learn about the risks and rewards of standing for truth and faithfully sharing God's Word. Hananiah's false prophecy is a warning against human pride and the allure of popularity. Conversely, Jeremiah's faithfulness to God's Word is a reminder of the rewards of God's faithfulness, even in the midst of resistance. May we, like Jeremiah, trust in God's Word and uphold it faithfully, even when it's not popular or favorable.