Jeremiah 44:28
Yet a small number that escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah, and all the remnant of Judah, that are gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall know whose words shall stand, mine, or theirs.
Jeremiah 44:28 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is conveying a message from God to the people of Judah who had fled to Egypt in an attempt to escape the Babylonian invasion. The small number who manage to escape the sword and return to Judah will witness the fulfillment of God's words over the false promises of those who urged them to seek refuge in Egypt. The verse highlights the importance of trusting in God's words and promises, rather than relying on human reasoning or the assurances of others. It serves as a reminder that ultimately, God's will and plans will prevail, and those who choose to follow his guidance will be vindicated. By heeding God's word, the remnant of Judah will come to know the power and faithfulness of God, reinforcing the message of obedience and trust in God's sovereignty.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Jeremiah 44:28, the prophet Jeremiah speaks of a small remnant of people who will escape the destruction of the sword and return from Egypt to Judah. The significance lies in the fact that these survivors will come to understand whose words are true and stand firm - whether it be the words of God or the false promises of others. This serves as a warning against straying from the path of righteousness and relying on human wisdom rather than obedience to God's commands. The phrase "know whose words shall stand" emphasizes the ultimate authority of God's word and the futility of trusting in human efforts or deceitful assurances. Through this interpretation, we are reminded of the importance of staying faithful to God's teachings and not being swayed by the empty promises of the world.
Jeremiah 44:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they that escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah, few in number; and all the remnant of Judah, that are gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall know whose word shall stand, mine, or theirs.
World English Bible
Those who escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah, few in number; and all the remnant of Judah, who have gone into the land of Egypt to live there, shall know whose word shall stand, mine, or theirs.
Douay-Rheims
And a few men that shall flee from the sword, shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Juda: and all the remnant of Juda that are gone into the land of Egypt to dwell there, shall know whose word shall stand, mine, or theirs.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Yet a small nomber that escape the sworde, shall returne out of the lande of Egypt into the lande of Iudah: and all the remnant of Iudah that are gone into the lande of Egypt to dwell there, shall know whose words shall stad, mine or theirs.