Jeremiah 21:6

I will strike down the residents of this city, both man and beast. They will die in a terrible plague.'

Study Bible

I will strike down the residents of this city
This phrase indicates divine judgment upon Jerusalem. The context is the Babylonian siege, a consequence of the people's persistent disobedience and idolatry. Historically, Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and governance, making its judgment significant. This reflects the covenantal curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 for disobedience. The phrase underscores God's sovereignty and justice, as He uses nations like Babylon as instruments of His will.

both man and beast
The inclusion of both humans and animals in the judgment highlights the totality of the devastation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, animals were vital for agriculture, transportation, and religious sacrifices. Their destruction signifies economic collapse and religious desolation. This mirrors the plagues of Egypt, where both man and beast suffered, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of divine retribution.

They will die in a terrible plague.
Plagues were common divine instruments of judgment in the Bible, as seen in the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12). This specific judgment aligns with the curses for covenant unfaithfulness (Leviticus 26:25). The term "terrible" underscores the severity and fear associated with such divine acts. Plagues often symbolize spiritual decay and the consequences of sin, pointing to the need for repentance and foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Christ, who heals and restores.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, including Zedekiah, during whose reign this prophecy was given.

2. Residents of Jerusalem
The inhabitants of the city of Jerusalem, who were living in rebellion against God and facing impending judgment due to their persistent sin and idolatry.

3. King Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of this prophecy. He sought Jeremiah's counsel as the Babylonian threat loomed over Jerusalem.

4. Babylonian Siege
The historical context of this prophecy is the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, which was a direct consequence of Judah's disobedience to God.

5. Plague
A divine judgment pronounced by God as part of the calamities that would befall Jerusalem, alongside sword and famine, due to their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's warnings through His prophets are serious and should not be taken lightly. Persistent disobedience leads to severe consequences, as seen in the judgment pronounced on Jerusalem.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign and just in His judgments. The use of plague as a form of judgment demonstrates His control over all creation, including life and death.

The Call to Repentance
Even in the face of impending judgment, there is always a call to repentance. God's desire is for His people to turn back to Him and avoid the consequences of their sin.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah play a crucial role in communicating God's messages. Their words, though often difficult, are meant to guide and correct God's people.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While this passage focuses on judgment, the broader account of Jeremiah includes promises of restoration and hope for those who return to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Jeremiah 21:6 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment on Jerusalem?

2. In what ways do the consequences outlined in Jeremiah 21:6 reflect the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28?

3. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and disobedience from this passage to our personal lives today?

4. What role do modern-day "prophets" or spiritual leaders play in guiding us back to God, and how can we discern their messages?

5. How does the theme of hope and restoration in the book of Jeremiah encourage us when we face the consequences of our own actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including plagues, which are similar to the judgments pronounced in Jeremiah 21:6.

Ezekiel 14
This passage also speaks of God's judgment through sword, famine, and plague, emphasizing the seriousness of turning away from God.

Revelation 6
The imagery of plagues and divine judgment is echoed in the apocalyptic visions, showing the consistency of God's justice throughout Scripture.