The words of Jeremiah 29 versus 11 represent a very pivotal pillar of the Christian faith. The main theme communicated through these words concern the theme of hope and faith, a common theme in all the circles of the Christian faith, especially to the oppressed. In the days of the prophet Jeremiah, through which the words are communicated, the Lord God Almighty used to call and appoint prophets that he used to convey the messages of hope to the people as seen in Jeremiah 29;11, as well as the preceding and the following verses (Allen, 2008). The context of these words also conveys an afflicted lot, who would need such kind of support. Jeremiah, being a point-man of the highest God, comes out as the best song that God sent to console the broken heart of his people.

The background of the people to whom the message of Jeremiah 29:11 is directed connotes an afflicted lot who needed the message of hope and faith in order to persevere. Reading from the introductory part of the text of Jeremiah 29, it is evident that this message was directed to exiles. These were the people that were exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. Being in exile denotes a state of homelessness. In addition, people who are in exile are likely to live in fear and dilapidation. They are in a state of helplessness. The foreign government may not recognize and support them. Their agenda is likely to be neglected. The Christian faith teaches that God shows his power and uniqueness in such circumstances as can be seen through the message of Jeremiah 29:11.

The message of Jeremiah 29:11 starts with a comforting and assuring tone for the people of God in exile. The message is clear that God identifies with the people in exile. Liking the message with verses four, five and six, God has given these people a sense of identity and assurance. In the message, God encourages his people to feel at home, marry, be married, build houses and settle (Bracke, 2000)As can be seen from the preceding verses, the Lord makes an assurance to the people and then delivers the message of his plans for the future. In line with the beliefs of the Christian faith, perseverance is followed by the reward of prosperity (Lundbom, 1997). The people in the context of the message of Jeremiah 29:11 are in a state where they need to persevere in exiles. The result of their perseverance will be the fulfillment of the promise of God, that is, prosperity.

In conclusion, God, in the words of Jeremiah 29 verse 11, used his prophet Jeremiah to bring a message of hope to his afflicted people. The message represents the themes of hope and faith, which are strong pillars of the Christian faith.

References

Allen, C.L. (2008). Jeremiah: A commentary. Louisville, KY: Westminister John Knox Press.

Bracke, M.J. (2000). Jeremiah 1-29. Louisville, KY: Westminister John Knox Press.

Lundbom, R. J. (1997). Jeremiah: A study in ancient Hebrew rhetoric. Warsaw, IN: Eisenbrauns.