JEREMIAH 29

GOD HAS GOOD PLANS FOR THE FUTURE 

Jeremiah sends a letter to the Israelites who have already been taken captive by Babylon, telling them not to listen to false prophets. God has told Jeremiah that they will be in exile for seventy years and Jeremiah encourages them to start establishing themselves in Babylon. The people are instructed to build homes and gardens, marry and have children, and attempt to live fruitfully instead of wasting away.

Although they are in exile, God has plans for the future that can build hope and encouragement in the Israelites. Although God’s words in Jeremiah 29:11 are directed toward the people of Israel in a time of exile, they point to God’s redemptive and loving character.

The false prophets offer false hope built on lies and empty promises. But Jeremiah offers true hope, rooted in God’s overarching plan for reconciliation and restoration.