Jeremiah 43-44

“Oh, do not do this abominable thing which I hate” (44:4).  The Babylonians had already burned Jerusalem (ch 39) and taken away Jewish captives due to Israel’s rebellion against God.  Jeremiah urged those who remained to repent and turn back to God, but they wouldn’t listen (44:16).  Instead, they announced that they would flee to Egypt and continue sacrificing to idols because this would bring them peace and prosperity.  God’s words of warning and instruction were ignored.

“My words will surely stand against you for harm” (44:29).  Israel’s rebellious attitude made the truth (that God is in charge) a stumbling block instead of a living hope.