Jeremiah 6: Group Study Handout

Overview

The children of Benjamin are called to escape Jerusalem, as destruction approaches from the north (vv. 1-3). A call to prepare for war is issued, urging the people to rise and attack Jerusalem at night (vv. 4-6). Yahweh declares judgment on the wickedness within Jerusalem, where violence and destruction are rampant (vv. 7-11). The consequences of corruption are severe, with the loss of homes and families for the people (vv. 12-15). A call to repentance is given, urging Jerusalem to seek the old paths and listen to Yahweh's watchmen (vv. 16-19). Yahweh rejects the people’s sacrifices, stating that their offerings are unacceptable (vv. 20-24). As destruction approaches, the people are warned to mourn and prepare for the coming judgment, as Yahweh has made them a tester of metals (vv. 25-30).

Key verse

“Yahweh says, “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, ‘Where is the good way?’ and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’

Jeremiah 6:16 (WEB)

Outline

1. Jeremiah 6:1–3 Call to Escape Jerusalem
2. Jeremiah 6:4–6 Preparation for War
3. Jeremiah 6:7–11 Judgment on Wickedness
4. Jeremiah 6:12–15 Consequences of Corruption
5. Jeremiah 6:16–19 Call to Repentance
6. Jeremiah 6:20–24 Rejection of Sacrifices
7. Jeremiah 6:25–30 Destruction Approaches

Discussion questions

1. In v1, what urgent action are the children of Benjamin instructed to take?
2. What does Yahweh instruct to be done in v6 regarding Jerusalem?
3. In vv. 13-14, what does the phrase 'Peace, peace!' suggest about the people's understanding of their situation?
4. In v20, why does God reject frankincense and sacrifices from His people?
5. When have you ignored a warning that could have prevented a difficult situation, as seen in v17?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Jeremiah 6: Matthew 11, Isaiah 30, Jeremiah 18.

Before next time: read Jeremiah 7.