Is there a Word from the Lord?

Jeremiah’s Prophecy and Zedekiah’s Dilemma The sermon focuses on Jeremiah chapter 37, highlighting Jeremiah’s role as a prophet and King Zedekiah’s struggle to heed God’s word. Jeremiah was appointed by God to deliver the truth, even when it was unpopular. He had to remain in Jerusalem and witness its destruction. He felt compelled to continue preaching despite facing opposition. Zedekiah reigned during a time of siege by the King of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem with 200,000 men. Zedekiah and his people did not listen to Jeremiah’s warnings. Zedekiah’s Wavering Faith Zedekiah sought Jeremiah’s prayers but struggled to accept God’s message. He asked Jeremiah to pray for them. Jeremiah told him God’s judgment was inevitable. Zedekiah hoped for deliverance from Egypt, but Jeremiah warned against relying on them. Other prophets were saying Babylon would be gone in two years. Jeremiah insisted that God’s word would prevail. Zedekiah secretly consulted Jeremiah, asking if there was any word from the Lord. Jeremiah confirmed that there was a word. The message was that Zedekiah would be delivered into the hands of the King of Babylon. The Unchanging Word of God The sermon emphasizes the consistency and trustworthiness of God’s word. Examples from the Bible illustrate that God does not change his mind. Adam was warned about eating from the forbidden tree. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. Abraham was asked to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. The word of God is the power of God unto salvation. It is the truth that remains constant. Moses and the Exodus The story of Moses is used to further illustrate the unwavering nature of God’s word. Moses was instructed to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite Pharaoh’s resistance, God remained committed to delivering his people. The Passover lamb and the blood on the doorposts symbolized salvation. The word of God trumps human opinions and stands firm. It is forever settled in heaven. People are accustomed to being told what they want to hear. David, Gideon, and the Power of Obedience Examples from the lives of David and Gideon demonstrate the power of obedience to God’s word. David faced Goliath because God told him to. Gideon defeated the Midianites with a small army because God instructed him. Gideon initially had too big of an army, so God reduced it to 300 men. The army broke pitchers, held up lights, blew trumpets, and cried, “The sword of the Lord and of Gideon.” The enemy soldiers killed each other. Jeremiah stood alone in proclaiming God’s message. Other prophets offered a more comforting but false narrative. Zedekiah sought a different message from Jeremiah, hoping God had changed his mind. Zedekiah’s Final Choice and Its Consequences Jeremiah warned Zedekiah that surrendering to the King of Babylon was the only way to save himself and the city. God always offers an opportunity for repentance. Despising God’s word leads to inevitable consequences. Zedekiah feared the Jews more than God and refused to surrender. He was afraid of being seen as a coward. The Babylonian army broke through the gates and captured Zedekiah. Zedekiah was forced to watch his sons being murdered before his eyes. His wives were also killed. He was then blinded and taken to Babylon, where he died. The Relevance of God’s Word Today The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of adhering to God’s word in the present day. The world is becoming increasingly intolerant of biblical truth. The word of God remains the ultimate authority. It offers promises of salvation and blessings for those who obey. The unchanging nature of God’s word provides a foundation for future generations. It will remain true even after everyone in the congregation is gone. Zedekiah sought something new, but the word of God is the best and most enduring truth. Pastor Tommy commits to continuing to preach the word of God. It has the power to save and transform lives. An invitation is extended for those who need to confess their sins and seek forgiveness.