.1:1-10.

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Jer 1:1-6:30 JEREMIAH’S EARLY MINISTRY

The call of Jeremiah (Jer 1:1-10)

Jeremiah belonged to a priestly family that lived not far from Jerusalem. However, he may never have practised as a priest, for God’s will was that he be a prophet. His prophetic ministry lasted at least forty years. It began in 627 BC (the thirteenth year of Josiah’s reign) and continued into the era that followed the destruction of Jerusalem in 587 BC (Jer 1:1-3).

God had chosen Jeremiah to be a prophet before he was born. He was to be God’s messenger to Judah and the surrounding nations (Jer 1:4-5).

At the time God called him to be a prophet, Jeremiah was probably no more than twenty years of age. When he objected that he was too young and inexperienced for such a task, God replied that he would be with him and give him the message to speak. Jeremiah had no cause to be afraid (Jer 1:6-8).

Much of Jeremiah’s message would not be popular and at times would appear to be pessimistic because of its repeated announcements of God’s judgment. Nevertheless, judgment was necessary, because proud self-confidence must be broken down and the corruption of sin removed before new spiritual life can grow up (Jer 1:9-10).