Jeremiah 46: Group Study Handout

Overview

Yahweh's word comes to Jeremiah concerning Egypt and Pharaoh Necoh's army by the Euphrates (vv. 1-2). He commands them to prepare for battle but reveals their defeat, as they are dismayed and turn back (vv. 3-10). Egypt's attempts at healing are in vain, as there is no remedy for their shame (vv. 11-12). The prophecy announces that Nebuchadnezzar will attack Egypt, leading to devastation (vv. 13-19). The destruction of Egypt is foretold, with imagery of cutting down like wood (vv. 20-24). Yahweh declares judgment against Pharaoh, his gods, and those who trust him, promising they will fall to Babylon's hand (vv. 25-26). Finally, there is reassurance for Israel, as Yahweh promises to save Jacob and correct him, but not to destroy him completely (vv. 27-28).

Key verse

“Don’t be afraid, O Jacob my servant,” says Yahweh; “for I am with you; for I will make a full end of all the nations where I have driven you; but I will not make a full end of you, but I will correct you in measure, and will in no way leave you unpunished.”

Jeremiah 46:28 (WEB)

Outline

1. Jeremiah 46:1–2 Introduction of Prophecy Against Egypt
2. Jeremiah 46:3–10 Call to Arms and Assurance of Defeat
3. Jeremiah 46:11–12 Futility of Egypt's Healing
4. Jeremiah 46:13–19 Announcement of Babylon's Attack
5. Jeremiah 46:20–24 Destruction and Devastation Foretold
6. Jeremiah 46:25–26 Judgment Against Pharaoh and Gods
7. Jeremiah 46:27–28 Assurance for Israel Amidst Judgment

Discussion questions

1. In v10, what does Yahweh mean by 'a day of vengeance'?
2. What do the 'horses' and 'chariots' symbolize in vv. 9-10?
3. The phrase 'the daughter of Egypt will be disappointed' (v24): what implications does this have for Egypt's identity?
4. In v27, why does Yahweh assure Jacob not to be afraid?
5. When have you felt surrounded by difficulties like Egypt in v12, yet found assurance instead?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Jeremiah 46: Jeremiah 30, Jeremiah 51, Zephaniah 3.

Before next time: read Jeremiah 47.