Jeremiah 32:28

Therefore this is what the LORD says: Behold, I am about to deliver this city into the hands of the Chaldeans and of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who will capture it.

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD says
This phrase underscores the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction signals a divine pronouncement, reminding the reader of the prophetic authority Jeremiah holds. It is a call to heed the words that follow, as they are not merely human predictions but divine declarations.

I am about to hand this city over
The phrase "hand this city over" indicates a deliberate act of God’s will. The Hebrew root "nathan" means to give or deliver, suggesting that Jerusalem's fate is not due to the might of the Chaldeans alone but is orchestrated by God as a consequence of the people's disobedience. This highlights the theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings given earlier in Jeremiah.

to the Chaldeans
The Chaldeans, also known as the Babylonians, were a dominant power in the ancient Near East. Historically, they were known for their military prowess and cultural achievements. The mention of the Chaldeans serves as a reminder of the geopolitical realities of the time and the instruments God uses to accomplish His purposes. It also reflects the historical context of the Babylonian Empire's expansion under Nebuchadnezzar.

and to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar is a significant historical figure, known for his conquests and the expansion of the Babylonian Empire. His mention here is not just as a political leader but as an instrument in God's plan. The historical Nebuchadnezzar was known for his military campaigns and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. This highlights the fulfillment of God's warnings through Jeremiah and the seriousness of divine judgment.

who will capture it
The certainty of the phrase "who will capture it" reflects the inevitability of God's judgment. The Hebrew verb "lakad" means to seize or capture, indicating a complete and decisive action. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience and the fulfillment of prophetic words. It also points to the hope of restoration, as God's plans ultimately include redemption and renewal beyond judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is speaking through the prophet Jeremiah.

2. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

3. The Chaldeans
A Semitic people who were part of the Babylonian Empire, known for their military prowess and eventual conquest of Jerusalem.

4. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, under whose reign Jerusalem was besieged and captured.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the location of the Temple and the center of Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty
God is in control of nations and their leaders. He uses them to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware of His plans.

Judgment and Mercy
While God pronounces judgment on Jerusalem, His ultimate goal is to bring His people back to repentance and restoration.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent disobedience to God's commands leads to severe consequences, as seen in the fall of Jerusalem.

Hope in Despair
Even in the midst of judgment, God provides hope for the future, as seen in the broader context of Jeremiah's prophecies about restoration.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Like Jeremiah, believers are called to remain faithful and proclaim God's truth, even when it is unpopular or leads to personal hardship.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can the account of Jerusalem's fall serve as a warning for personal or communal disobedience today?

3. How can believers find hope and assurance in God's promises, even when facing difficult circumstances?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jeremiah's faithfulness in delivering God's message, despite opposition and personal cost?

5. How do the prophecies of judgment and restoration in Jeremiah encourage you to trust in God's long-term plans for your life and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:9
This verse also speaks of God using Nebuchadnezzar as His servant to bring judgment upon Judah, reinforcing the theme of divine sovereignty over nations.

2 Kings 25:1-12
Provides a historical account of the siege and fall of Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecy given in Jeremiah 32:28.

Daniel 1:1-2
Describes the beginning of the Babylonian captivity, where Daniel and others were taken to Babylon, showing the broader impact of the events prophesied by Jeremiah.

Isaiah 39:6-7
Isaiah's prophecy about the Babylonian captivity, which aligns with Jeremiah's message and highlights the consistency of God's warnings through different prophets.