Jeremiah: Faithfulness in a Time of Collapse — with Dr. Andrew Swafford

In this episode of the Great Men of the Bible series, host Joe Stopulos welcomes Dr. Andrew Swafford, Associate Professor of Sacred Scripture at Benedictine College and Senior Fellow at the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, to examine the life and ministry of the prophet Jeremiah.Set against the backdrop of the divided kingdom and the spiritual collapse of Judah, Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry spans decades—from the reforms of King Josiah to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. Joe and Dr. Swafford walk listeners through the historical context of the divided kingdom, the fall of the northern kingdom, and Jeremiah’s mission to call the southern kingdom of Judah back to covenant fidelity.The conversation highlights Jeremiah’s unique role as a prophet who not only proclaimed God’s Word but also suffered deeply for it. Known as the “weeping prophet,” Jeremiah endured rejection, persecution, imprisonment, and heartbreak as he faithfully spoke hard truths to a people who refused to listen. His life reveals the cost of discipleship and the courage required to speak God’s truth in difficult times.Dr. Swafford offers a clear overview of the structure and major themes of the Book of Jeremiah, including covenant discipline, repentance, exile, hope, and the promise of a new covenant. Special attention is given to Jeremiah’s letter to the exiles, the famous promise of hope in Jeremiah 29, and the enduring lesson that God remains faithful even in the midst of judgment.This episode challenges listeners—especially men—to live with discipline, conviction, and perseverance, drawing inspiration from Jeremiah’s unwavering fidelity to God despite immense suffering and opposition.Guest: Dr. Andrew SwaffordAssociate Professor of Sacred Scripture, Benedictine CollegeSenior Fellow, St. Paul Center for Biblical TheologyOverview of the divided kingdom and its spiritual consequencesThe fall of the northern kingdom and the corruption of JudahJeremiah’s calling and prophetic missionJeremiah as the “weeping prophet”Speaking hard truths in times of moral collapseCovenant discipline and God’s faithfulnessPersecution of the prophetsThe Babylonian exile and destruction of Jerusalem (586 BC)Jeremiah 29 and the promise of hopeThe promise of the New CovenantPerseverance, discipline, and courage for Catholic men todaySpeaking truth with charity and conviction in an unpopular culture#GreatMenOfTheBible #ProphetJeremiah #CatholicPodcast #BibleStudy #OldTestament #SalvationHistory #CatholicMen #Faithfulness #Perseverance #ScriptureReflection Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulosSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.