Focal Passage: Jeremiah 1:4-19
Introduction: Jeremiah’s call to prophesy emphasizes a powerful reminder that God calls and equips us for His work. In this lesson, we will explore Jeremiah 1:4-19 and discover how God’s call to Jeremiah applies to us as Christians today.
What Does the Text Say? In Jeremiah 1:4-19, we see God calling Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah was reluctant to accept this call because of his youth and lack of experience, but God reassured him in verse five.
God then touches Jeremiah’s mouth and puts His Words in his mouth (v. 9), empowering him for His task. He warns Jeremiah of the opposition he will face but assures him that He will be with him (v. 18).
What Does the Text Mean? Jeremiah’s calling reminders us that God calls and equips the called for His work. Just like Jeremiah, we may feel inadequate or unprepared, but God sees our potential and has a plan for our lives. As Matthew Henry once said, “Those whom God calls, He will qualify.”
Tyler
God’s words to Jeremiah also show us that His plans for us are made before we are even born. He has a purpose for each of our lives and invites us to partner with Him in His work.
However, just like Jeremiah, we may face opposition and rejection when we follow God’s call. The world may not always understand or accept our faith and obedience to God. But, as God reassured Jeremiah, we can trust that God will be with us every step of the way.
How Does the Text Apply? As Christians, we are called to be God’s servants and witnesses in the world. Like Jeremiah, we may face opposition or rejection, but we can trust that God will equip and guide us. God’s Words to Jeremiah also remind us that we are made for a purpose and have a unique role to play in God’s plan.
We can seek God’s guidance and direction for our lives and trust that He will provide everything we need to fulfill His calling.
Lastly, we can take comfort in the fact that God knows us intimately and sees our potential.
As Puritan preacher Richard Baxter once said, “God looks not at the beauty of the vessel, but at the treasure that is in it.”
We may feel inadequate or unqualified, but God sees the treasure that lies within us.
Conclusion: Jeremiah 1:4-19 reminds us that God calls and equips His servants for His work. We can trust in His guidance and provision as we follow His calling for our lives.
As pastor John Owen once said, “We are called to a service of the greatest honor, to be fellow-workers with God Himself.”
Application: Discuss the call of Jeremiah and how it applies to our lives as Christians. What are some ways we can discern God’s calling for our lives? Reflect on times when you have faced opposition or rejection for your faith.
How did you respond and what did you learn from the experience? Encourage each other to seek God’s guidance and direction for our lives, and to trust in His provision and equipping for His work. B&R
