In many places in the Bible, God makes specific promises to his people Israel. A closer look reveals that they are above all else: "Phenomenal!" This series explores selected promises God made to Israel. Prepare to be amazed!
By Dr. Tobias Krämer
“Therefore, behold, the days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when it will no longer be said, ‘As surely as the Lord lives, who brought the Israelites out of Egypt,’ but, ‘As surely as the Lord lives, who brought the Israelites out of the land of the north and out of all the countries where he had driven them.’ For I will bring them back to the land I gave to their ancestors.” (Jeremiah 16:14-15)
It was a long time ago. About 2,600 years. It was the time of the Babylonian exile. A terrible time for Israel. Not only was God's judgment terrible, that God's people had to leave their land. Above all, the doubts were terrible: "Has God forsaken us? Has he rejected us forever, does he want nothing more to do with us?" Homelessness and doubts about faith – that is a terrible combination. Suddenly, the prophet Jeremiah, who had so often proclaimed judgment, became a pastor and a source of encouragement. He had God's commission to make one thing clear to his people: The judgment is not the end. Never! Therefore, God announces a turning point through Jeremiah: "Behold, the time is coming..." This makes one sit up and take notice.
This new era is associated with a particular way of speaking: “As surely as the Lord lives…” This is something like a formula of oath, truth, or commitment. However, its content is interesting. In this new era, one will no longer say: “As surely as the Lord lives, who brought the Israelites out of Egypt.” The Exodus from Egypt was the great event of salvation for Israel. It formed the foundation of Israel’s faith, hope, and identity. This event even made it into the First Commandment: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery…” (Exodus 20:2-3)
And now this is no longer to be mentioned? That is only possible if there is an even greater event! And it will come. God will bring his people back not only from Babylonian exile, but from all corners of the earth to their land. A worldwide movement will begin. From every direction, thousands of Jews will set out and return to their homeland. This event will surpass even the Exodus! And so it will be said: “As surely as the Lord lives, who brought the Israelites out of the land of the north and out of all the countries where he had banished them.” When they speak like this, then Israel will have returned home and found rest.
It was a long time ago. Approximately 2600 years. Yet today, this is happening before our very eyes. The new era is dawning and taking shape. This is the era we live in.
