Introduction to the Book of Jeremiah Jeremiah the prophet led an emotionally
tortured life, yet held to his stern message.
He recorded his prophetic predictions along with his feelings in this book,
which bears his name.
He was a priest who lived during the latter part of the seventh century and the
first part of the sixth century B.C.
His prophetic role lasted over forty years and spanned the reign of five kings.
God had been patient for many years, but now he warns his chosen people through
Jeremiah to turn away from their blatant sin and idolatry and return to him or face
catastrophe.
But they did not repent.
Jeremiah lived to see his prediction of judgment fulfilled when Jerusalem fell to
the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C.
He also witnessed the destruction of the temple and the exile of many of his people
to Babylon.
But Jeremiah also foretold of the eventual return of the people from exile,
which included the restoration of the nation.
He also spoke of a time when the Messiah would come and bring worldwide blessing.