Jeremiah 21:7

After that,' declares the LORD, 'I will hand over Zedekiah king of Judah, his officers, and the people in this city who survive the plague and sword and famine, to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and to their enemies who seek their lives. He will put them to the sword; he will not spare them or show pity or compassion.'

Study Bible

After that, declares the LORD
This phrase sets the stage for a divine pronouncement, emphasizing the authority and certainty of God's word. The Hebrew root for "declares" (נְאֻם, ne'um) is often used in prophetic literature to signify a solemn and authoritative statement from God. It underscores the seriousness of the message and the inevitability of its fulfillment. In the context of Jeremiah, it serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His prophetic word.

I will deliver Zedekiah king of Judah
Zedekiah was the last king of Judah, and his reign was marked by political instability and spiritual decline. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (נָתַן, natan) can also mean "to give" or "to hand over," indicating a transfer of power and control. This phrase highlights the consequences of Zedekiah's disobedience and the fulfillment of God's judgment. Historically, Zedekiah's reign ended with the Babylonian conquest, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecy.

his officials, and the people in this city who survive the plague, the sword, and the famine
This phrase paints a grim picture of the calamities that have befallen Jerusalem. The mention of "plague, the sword, and the famine" reflects the triad of judgments often seen in the Old Testament as instruments of divine wrath. The Hebrew context suggests a comprehensive devastation, leaving only a remnant. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the reality of divine justice.

into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar was the powerful ruler of Babylon, and his name is synonymous with the Babylonian exile. The phrase "into the hand" (בְּיַד, b'yad) signifies control and domination. Historically, Nebuchadnezzar's conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BC was a pivotal event, leading to the destruction of the temple and the exile of the Jewish people. This phrase underscores the fulfillment of God's judgment through historical events.

into the hands of their enemies who seek their lives
This phrase emphasizes the dire situation facing the people of Judah. The repetition of "hands" (יָד, yad) highlights the complete control and power their enemies have over them. The phrase "who seek their lives" indicates a relentless pursuit and intent to destroy. This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of forsaking God's protection and the reality of living under the threat of hostile forces.

He will put them to the sword
The imagery of the sword is a common biblical metaphor for judgment and destruction. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev) often symbolizes divine retribution. This phrase conveys the severity of the judgment that awaits those who have turned away from God. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the ultimate justice of God.

he will not spare them or show pity or compassion
This final phrase underscores the totality of the judgment. The Hebrew words for "spare" (חָמַל, chamal), "pity" (חָס, chas), and "compassion" (רַחֵם, rachem) all convey a sense of mercy and leniency, which are notably absent in this context. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience and the reality of divine justice. It highlights the importance of repentance and turning back to God to avoid such severe judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of the Babylonian siege. His reign was marked by disobedience to God and reliance on political alliances rather than divine guidance.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was under threat from Babylon due to its persistent idolatry and failure to heed prophetic warnings.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his military conquests and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem. He is used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah.

4. Plague, Sword, and Famine
These are the threefold judgments that God declares will come upon the people of Judah due to their disobedience and rebellion.

5. Babylon
The empire that God uses to execute judgment on Judah, symbolizing the consequences of turning away from God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The passage highlights the severe consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Despite the dire circumstances, this passage reminds us that God is sovereign and uses even foreign powers to accomplish His purposes.

The Role of Prophets
Jeremiah's role as a prophet was to deliver God's message, regardless of its popularity. This challenges us to speak truth in love, even when it is difficult.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While the immediate context is one of judgment, the broader account of Scripture assures us of God's redemptive plan and the hope of restoration for those who repent.

Trust in God, Not in Human Alliances
Zedekiah's reliance on political alliances rather than God serves as a cautionary tale about where we place our trust.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fate of Zedekiah and the people of Judah illustrate the consequences of ignoring God's warnings? Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for not heeding wise counsel.

2. In what ways does the sovereignty of God over nations and leaders provide comfort or challenge your current understanding of world events?

3. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah's prophetic ministry to our own lives when it comes to speaking truth in difficult situations?

4. Reflect on a time when you relied on human solutions rather than seeking God's guidance. What were the outcomes, and how might you approach similar situations differently now?

5. Considering the broader account of Scripture, how does the theme of judgment and hope in Jeremiah 21:7 encourage you in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25
This chapter provides a historical account of the fall of Jerusalem and the capture of Zedekiah, illustrating the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy.

Lamentations 1
Offers a poetic reflection on the destruction of Jerusalem, emphasizing the sorrow and desolation that resulted from the people's sin.

Ezekiel 21
Another prophetic book that speaks of the sword of judgment coming upon Jerusalem, reinforcing the message of inevitable divine justice.

Deuteronomy 28
Lists the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the covenantal context of Jeremiah's prophecy.