Jeremiah 27:3

Send word to the kings of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon through the envoys who have come to Jerusalem to Zedekiah king of Judah.

Study Bible

Send word
The phrase "Send word" indicates a directive from God to Jeremiah to communicate a specific message. In the Hebrew context, the word for "send" (שָׁלַח, shalach) often implies a mission or a purposeful dispatch. This highlights the intentionality behind God's instructions, emphasizing the importance of the message being delivered. It is a reminder of the prophetic role as a messenger of divine will, underscoring the responsibility to faithfully convey God's words.

to the kings of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon
These nations—Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon—were neighboring regions around Judah. Historically, these nations had complex relationships with Israel, often characterized by conflict and alliances. The inclusion of these specific nations signifies the widespread impact of the message and God's sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. Each of these nations had their own gods and political systems, yet they were subject to the same divine authority. This serves as a reminder of God's universal dominion and the futility of resisting His plans.

through the envoys who have come to Jerusalem
The "envoys" were representatives or messengers from these nations, indicating a diplomatic or political context. Their presence in Jerusalem suggests a gathering or conference, possibly to discuss alliances or strategies against the rising power of Babylon. This setting underscores the political tension of the time and the urgency of God's message. It also reflects the interconnectedness of these nations and the shared threat they faced, highlighting the need for divine guidance in political affairs.

to Zedekiah king of Judah
Zedekiah was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. His reign was marked by political instability and pressure from Babylon. The mention of Zedekiah specifically points to his role as a leader who was responsible for guiding his people according to God's will. Historically, Zedekiah struggled with faithfulness to God, often swayed by political pressures. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking God's wisdom and the consequences of failing to do so. It also emphasizes the role of leaders in heeding prophetic messages and aligning their actions with divine purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon
Neighboring nations of Judah, each with its own history of interactions with Israel and Judah, often characterized by conflict and alliances.

3. Envoys
Representatives or messengers from these nations who have come to Jerusalem, likely to discuss political alliances or responses to the Babylonian threat.

4. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of the Babylonian conquest and was known for his vacillation between allegiance to Babylon and rebellion.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, a central location for political and religious activity, and the focal point of God's messages through Jeremiah.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
Jeremiah 27:3 reminds us that God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. He directs the affairs of kingdoms according to His purposes.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah were tasked with delivering God's messages, often in politically charged environments. This underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's word, even when it is unpopular.

Political Alliances and Trust in God
The presence of envoys in Jerusalem suggests political maneuvering. Believers are reminded to place their ultimate trust in God rather than in human alliances or strategies.

Judgment and Mercy
While God pronounces judgment on nations, His ultimate desire is for repentance and restoration. This dual theme is a call to examine our own lives and align with God's will.

The Importance of Obedience
Zedekiah's account is a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. Obedience to God leads to blessing, while rebellion leads to judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of multiple nations in Jeremiah 27:3 reflect God's sovereignty and concern for all peoples?

2. In what ways can we see the role of a prophet as relevant in today's world, especially in speaking truth to power?

3. How can we apply the lesson of trusting in God over political or social alliances in our personal lives?

4. What are some modern examples of nations or individuals experiencing the consequences of disobedience to God's commands?

5. How can we balance the message of judgment with the hope of mercy and restoration in our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25
This chapter provides context for the message in Jeremiah 27, as it outlines God's judgment on Judah and the surrounding nations, emphasizing the sovereignty of God over all kingdoms.

2 Kings 24-25
These chapters detail the historical context of Zedekiah's reign and the political turmoil involving Babylon, providing background for the events in Jeremiah 27.

Isaiah 13-23
These chapters contain prophecies against many of the same nations mentioned in Jeremiah 27, highlighting God's consistent message of judgment and sovereignty over the nations.