Jeremiah 21:13

Behold, I am against you who dwell above the valley, atop the rocky plateau--declares the LORD--you who say, "Who can come against us? Who can enter our dwellings?"

Study Bible

Behold
The Hebrew word for "behold" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an attention-grabbing exclamation. It is often used in the Bible to signal the importance of what follows. In this context, it underscores the seriousness of God's message to the people of Jerusalem. It is a divine alert, calling the people to pay attention to the impending judgment.

I am against you
This phrase is a direct declaration from God, indicating His opposition. The Hebrew root "נגד" (nagad) implies a stance of confrontation. Historically, this is a sobering statement, as it reflects God's judgment against the people due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship where blessings and curses were contingent upon Israel's faithfulness.

O valley dweller
The term "valley dweller" refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which is geographically situated in a valley surrounded by hills. The Hebrew word "יֹשֵׁב" (yoshev) means inhabitant or dweller. This phrase highlights the false sense of security the people felt due to their city's natural defenses. Archaeologically, Jerusalem's location was strategic, but God is emphasizing that no physical geography can protect them from divine judgment.

O rocky plain
This phrase further describes the topography of Jerusalem. The Hebrew "צוּר" (tsur) means rock or rocky place, emphasizing the city's perceived impregnability. Historically, Jerusalem's fortifications were considered strong, yet God is declaring that their trust in physical defenses is misplaced. The imagery serves to contrast their reliance on earthly strength with the need for spiritual fidelity.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" is a prophetic formula used throughout the Old Testament. The Hebrew "נְאֻם יְהוָה" (ne'um YHWH) signifies a solemn pronouncement from God. It assures the reader of the divine authority and certainty of the message. In a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the belief in the inerrancy and authority of Scripture as God's revealed word.

you who say, ‘Who can come against us? Who can enter our dwellings?’
This phrase captures the arrogance and complacency of the people of Jerusalem. The rhetorical questions reflect their misguided confidence in their city's defenses. The Hebrew "יָבוֹא" (yavo) means to come or enter, indicating their belief in invulnerability. Scripturally, this attitude is reminiscent of other biblical instances where human pride precedes a fall, such as in Proverbs 16:18. It serves as a warning against self-reliance and a call to trust in God alone.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

2. Valley Dweller
Refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which is situated in a valley surrounded by hills, symbolizing a false sense of security.

3. Rocky Plain
A metaphor for the fortified city of Jerusalem, emphasizing its perceived impregnability.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is declaring His opposition to the pride and false security of the people.

5. Judah and Jerusalem
The southern kingdom and its capital, facing impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry.

Teaching Points

False Security
The inhabitants of Jerusalem believed their city was invincible due to its geographical and man-made defenses. This serves as a warning against placing our trust in worldly securities rather than in God.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human efforts to secure themselves, God declares His authority and power over all. We must recognize that true security comes from submitting to His will.

Pride and Humility
The pride of Jerusalem's inhabitants led to their downfall. We are called to humility, acknowledging our dependence on God rather than our own strength or resources.

Repentance and Obedience
The context of Jeremiah's message is a call to repentance. We are reminded of the importance of turning back to God and living in obedience to His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "valleys" or "rocky plains" where people might place their trust instead of in God?

2. How does the message of Jeremiah 21:13 challenge us to evaluate our own sources of security and confidence?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a heart of humility and dependence on God in our daily lives?

4. How do the additional scriptures connected to this passage reinforce the theme of true security in God?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our lives are built on the solid foundation of God's word, as illustrated in Matthew 7:24-27?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 22:1-14
This passage also addresses the false security of Jerusalem, highlighting the people's reliance on their defenses rather than on God.

Psalm 20:7
Contrasts trust in human strength and military might with trust in the name of the LORD.

Proverbs 18:10-11
Illustrates the difference between the security found in God and the false security of wealth and human defenses.

Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders underscores the importance of building one's life on the solid foundation of God's word rather than on false securities.