Jeremiah 40 - 42

Jeremiah is released from prison by the Babylonians.  They allow him to choose where he would like to dwell, and he chooses to live among his people in the land of Israel.  The governor, Gedaliah, encourages the people to live peacefully under Babylonian rule.  However, insurrection mounts against Gedaliah and he is killed by a man named Ishmael.  Terror fills the streets as Ishmael's strength and forces are feared.  The people turn to Jeremiah for direction from God, and state that whatever God commands, they will do.  After 10 days, God gives the answer to Jeremiah:  those that remain in the land will survive and thrive; those who run off to Egypt, the disaster you flee will meet you there.  Jeremiah begs with the people to stay and not run to Egypt.