A New Covenant: A Study in JeremiahSample

What does it say?

Jeremiah prophesied the fate of King Josiah’s sons.

What does it mean?

God was outraged at the behavior of Josiah’s sons. They were not men of character. They led God’s people away through the worship of false gods and chose to advance their own agendas. Each saw his position as a pathway to fame and fortune rather than as a place of service to the Lord. Kings who ruled over God’s people were to reflect His character. How a king treated the people was evidence of his commitment to God. Instead of establishing a kingdom of righteousness and justice, Shallum and Jehoiakim corrupted the royal throne and left a legacy of disgrace.

How should I respond?

As followers of Jesus, we share many blessings. If we are not careful, we can become self-absorbed in the benefits we gain in Christ. Those privileges come with the responsibility of caring for people who have less and sharing the gospel of Jesus. Does your treatment of others reflect Christ? Or do your actions reflect a person devoted to self? Where are you serving the Lord, encouraging others to follow Him? You can choose either to advance your own name or honor the name of Christ – but you can’t do both.