The Letter of Jeremiah is a short but forceful sermon against the worship of idols. Presented as a message from the prophet to the Jews facing exile in Babylon, it prepares them for the dazzling but deceptive pagan culture they will encounter. In a series of sharp, sometimes satirical observations, the author exposes idols for what they are: mere objects of wood and stone, overlaid with gold and silver. They are made by human hands, cannot speak or move, and are powerless to save themselves, let alone their worshippers. The letter is a passionate plea for God's people to see through the external splendor of pagan religion and to hold fast to their covenant with the living God, who is unlike the silent, helpless gods of the nations.