The new covenant refers to the restoration of the original one, written in a different place by the LORD Himself: upon our hearts.

Jeremiah is urging his brethren to look back at Jacob’s experience when he was threatened by an angry brother who said he would kill him in revenge for past wrongs. In preparation for the crisis, Jacob spent the night in prayer . . .

Here, we have His voice only. It would not have been audible to others. Jeremiah’s close relationship with the LORD was the only aspect of his life that enabled him to hear His voice.

Hananiah’s message was one of “cutting corners” instead of persevering according to God’s explicit directions. This false message caused the people to trust in a lie .

A great stir brought fervent revival to the developing west. People perceived that westward expansion and industrialization were accompanied by moral decline. But there was also a righteous pushback . . .

These challenges to false teachings in the church brought the controversy out into the open. The church responded with severe intimidation tactics. But those who were Holy Spirit led determined not to be intimidated.