Uriah Dies While Ahikam Protects Jeremiah
Faithful proclamation of God’s word often brings severe opposition, yet God may preserve His servants according to His sovereign purposes.
Jeremiah 26:20-24 (BSB)
20 Now there was another man prophesying in the name of the LORD, Uriah son of Shemaiah from Kiriath-jearim. He prophesied against this city and against this land the same things that Jeremiah did.
21 King Jehoiakim and all his mighty men and officials heard his words, and the king sought to put him to death. But when Uriah found out about it, he fled in fear and went to Egypt.
22 Then King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt: Elnathan son of Achbor along with some other men.
23 They brought Uriah out of Egypt and took him to King Jehoiakim, who had him put to the sword and his body thrown into the burial place of the common people.
24 Nevertheless, Ahikam son of Shaphan supported Jeremiah, so he was not handed over to the people to be put to death.
What is the big idea of Jeremiah 26:20-24?
Faithful proclamation of God’s word often brings severe opposition, yet God may preserve His servants according to His sovereign purposes.
How does Jeremiah 26:20-24 point to Christ?
The rejection and execution of God’s prophets anticipates the ultimate rejection of Jesus Christ, the true and final Prophet. Yet through His death and resurrection God accomplishes redemption for those who repent and believe.
How does Jeremiah 26:20-24 relate to the life and ministry of Jesus?
The execution of Uriah anticipates the pattern of prophetic persecution that culminates in the rejection and crucifixion of Jesus. Like the prophets before Him, Christ proclaimed God’s truth and faced opposition from political and religious authorities.
Authorial Intent
To contrast Jeremiah’s preservation with the execution of another prophet, Uriah son of Shemaiah, demonstrating the real danger faced by prophets who proclaimed judgment against Judah.
Literary Context
Jeremiah 26:20–24 concludes the temple sermon episode by recounting the fate of another prophet who spoke similar words. The account intensifies the seriousness of Jeremiah’s situation while also explaining why he ultimately survived the crisis.
Chapter: Jeremiah 26
Jeremiah on Trial for Preaching Judgment Against the Temple
When the LORD's word confronts false temple security, the faithful messenger must speak without omission, and the people must choose between repentant fear of God and violent rejection of his warning.