The Theology of Jeremiah

Synopsis

"How do we think about the theology of the book of Jeremiah? John Goldingay considers the prophet Jeremiah himself, his individual circumstances and those of Judah, and his message. As we view the book of Jeremiah in its entirety, we learn about God, Israel as the people of God, the nature of wrongdoing and prophecy, and what we know about the future"--.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Historical Context of Jeremiah's Prophecy

This chapter examines the historical background of Jeremiah's ministry. Real example: The destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile.

Chapter 2: The Call and Message of Jeremiah

This chapter analyzes Jeremiah's call to prophecy and the core themes of his message. Real example: The covenant broken by Israel and the need for repentance.

Chapter 3: The Judgment on Judah and Jerusalem

This chapter discusses Jeremiah's prophecies of impending judgment upon Judah and Jerusalem due to their unfaithfulness. Real example: The siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar.

Chapter 4: The Messianic Hope

Despite his messages of judgment, Jeremiah also prophesied about a future hope for Israel. Real example: The promise of a righteous ruler from David's line (Jeremiah 23:5-6).

Chapter 5: The Nature of God

Jeremiah's theology emphasized the sovereignty, justice, and compassion of God. Real example: The Lord's declaration, "I am the LORD, the God of all humankind. Is anything too difficult for me?" (Jeremiah 32:27).

Chapter 6: The Human Condition

Jeremiah recognized the sinfulness and brokenness of human nature. Real example: The prophet's lament, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9).

Chapter 7: The Nature of the Covenant

Jeremiah's theology emphasized the importance of fidelity to God's covenant. Real example: The Lord's warning that the covenant would be broken because Israel had forsaken him (Jeremiah 11:8-10).

Chapter 8: The Role of the Individual

Jeremiah believed that individuals have a responsibility to respond to God's call and choose faithfulness. Real example: The prophet's exhortation to the people to "Return to me, and I will return to you" (Jeremiah 3:14).

Chapter 9: The Eschatological Vision

Jeremiah's prophecies include visions of the end times and the restoration of Israel. Real example: The promise of a new covenant written on the hearts of people (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

Chapter 10: The Legacy of Jeremiah

Jeremiah's writings have had a profound impact on Jewish and Christian thought. Real example: The influence of his themes of judgment, hope, and the nature of God on later biblical literature and theological traditions.