Jeremiah 27:13

Why should you and your people die by sword and famine and plague, as the LORD has decreed against any nation that does not serve the king of Babylon?

Study Bible

Why should you and your people die
This phrase is a rhetorical question posed by the prophet Jeremiah, urging the people to consider the consequences of their actions. The Hebrew root for "die" is "מוּת" (muth), which signifies physical death but also spiritual separation from God. Jeremiah is emphasizing the gravity of disobedience to God's command, which in this context, is to submit to Babylonian rule. Historically, this reflects the dire situation of Judah, facing imminent destruction due to their rebellion against God's ordained plan.

by the sword, famine, and plague
These three calamities are frequently mentioned together in the Old Testament as instruments of divine judgment (e.g., Ezekiel 5:12). The "sword" represents warfare and violence, "famine" indicates severe scarcity of food, and "plague" suggests widespread disease. In Hebrew, "sword" is "חֶרֶב" (chereb), "famine" is "רָעָב" (ra'av), and "plague" is "דֶּבֶר" (deber). These terms underscore the comprehensive nature of the judgment that would befall those who resist God's will. Archaeological evidence from the period shows that these were common consequences of sieges in the ancient Near East, lending historical weight to Jeremiah's warning.

as the LORD has decreed
The phrase highlights the sovereignty and authority of God in the affairs of nations. The Hebrew word for "decreed" is "דָּבַר" (dabar), meaning to speak or command. This underscores that the events are not random but are part of God's divine plan. From a conservative Christian perspective, this affirms the belief in God's ultimate control over history and His righteous judgment.

against any nation that does not serve
Here, "serve" is translated from the Hebrew "עָבַד" (avad), which means to work or be in bondage. The call to serve the king of Babylon is not merely political but is presented as an act of obedience to God's directive. This reflects the biblical theme that submission to earthly authorities can be an expression of submission to God, as long as it does not contradict His commands.

the king of Babylon
This refers to Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah. Historically, Babylon was a dominant empire during this period, and its king was seen as a powerful ruler. Theologically, this serves as a reminder that God can use even pagan nations to accomplish His purposes, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, illustrating God's ability to work through all circumstances for His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. He is known for his perseverance in delivering God's messages despite opposition.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His will and decrees through His prophets.

3. The King of Babylon
Refers to Nebuchadnezzar II, the ruler of the Babylonian Empire, whom God used as an instrument of judgment against nations, including Judah.

4. Sword, Famine, and Plague
These are the threefold judgments often mentioned in the Old Testament as consequences of disobedience to God's commands.

5. Nations
Refers to the various kingdoms surrounding Judah, which were also subject to God's decrees and judgments.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is sovereign over all nations and uses rulers, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to accomplish His purposes.

Consequences of Disobedience
Understand that disobedience to God's commands leads to severe consequences, as illustrated by the sword, famine, and plague.

God's Use of Nations
Acknowledge that God can use any nation or leader as an instrument of His judgment or blessing, reminding us of His ultimate control over world events.

Call to Repentance
Jeremiah's message serves as a call to repentance, urging us to turn back to God to avoid the consequences of disobedience.

Trust in God's Plan
Even in difficult circumstances, trust that God's plans are for our ultimate good and His glory, as He works through history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over nations impact your view of current world events?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of disobedience to God in our own lives or communities today?

3. How can we apply the call to repentance in Jeremiah's message to our personal spiritual journey?

4. What are some modern-day "swords, famines, and plagues" that we might face as a result of turning away from God's commands?

5. How can we trust in God's plan and remain faithful when facing difficult circumstances, similar to those faced by the people of Judah?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including sword, famine, and plague, which are similar to the judgments mentioned in Jeremiah 27:13.

2 Kings 24-25
These chapters describe the historical context of Babylon's conquest of Judah, fulfilling the warnings given by Jeremiah.

Daniel 1
Provides insight into the Babylonian captivity and how God used Babylon to fulfill His purposes, as seen in the lives of Daniel and his friends.