Jeremiah 38:14

Then King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah the prophet and received him at the third entrance to the house of the LORD. "I am going to ask you something," said the king to Jeremiah. "Do not hide anything from me."

Study Bible

Then King Zedekiah
King Zedekiah was the last king of Judah before the Babylonian conquest. His reign was marked by political instability and spiritual decline. The name "Zedekiah" means "The Lord is my righteousness," which is ironic given his failure to lead the nation in righteousness. Historically, Zedekiah was appointed by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, which placed him in a difficult position between loyalty to Babylon and the desires of his own people. His interactions with Jeremiah reflect his internal conflict and desperation for guidance amidst impending doom.

sent for Jeremiah the prophet
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to Judah. His prophetic ministry spanned over 40 years, during which he faced significant opposition and persecution. The Hebrew root for "prophet" (נָבִיא, navi) implies one who is a spokesperson for God, conveying divine messages. Jeremiah's role was crucial, as he was the mouthpiece of God during a time of national crisis, calling the people to repentance and warning of the consequences of their disobedience.

and received him at the third entrance
The "third entrance" to the house of the LORD likely refers to a private or less conspicuous entryway, suggesting that Zedekiah sought to meet Jeremiah in secret. This detail highlights the king's fear of public opinion and the political pressures he faced. Archaeological studies of ancient Jerusalem provide insights into the temple's layout, indicating multiple entrances that could be used for different purposes. Zedekiah's choice of a discreet meeting place underscores his internal struggle and the clandestine nature of his inquiry.

to the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. It was not only a religious center but also a symbol of God's presence among His people. The temple's significance in Jewish life cannot be overstated, as it was the focal point of religious, social, and political life. Zedekiah's decision to meet Jeremiah there may indicate a desire to seek divine counsel, even as he struggled with his own faith and leadership.

'I am going to ask you something,'
Zedekiah's statement reveals his intention to seek guidance from Jeremiah. The king's approach suggests a level of respect for Jeremiah's prophetic office, despite previous attempts to silence him. This moment of inquiry reflects Zedekiah's desperation and the weight of his responsibility as king. In the broader scriptural context, seeking counsel from a prophet was a common practice for Israelite leaders, emphasizing the importance of divine guidance in governance.

said the king to Jeremiah
The direct communication between the king and the prophet highlights the gravity of the situation. Zedekiah's willingness to speak directly to Jeremiah, despite the prophet's unpopular messages, indicates a recognition of Jeremiah's authority and the truth of his prophecies. This interaction underscores the tension between political power and spiritual truth, a recurring theme in the biblical narrative.

'Do not hide anything from me.'
Zedekiah's plea for honesty reveals his anxiety and the critical nature of the information he seeks. The king's request for transparency underscores his awareness of the dire circumstances facing Judah. In the Hebrew context, the phrase implies a desire for complete and unvarnished truth, reflecting the biblical principle that truth is essential for righteous decision-making. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking God's truth, even when it is difficult to hear.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of the Babylonian siege. He is depicted as a weak leader, often swayed by his officials and fearful of the consequences of his decisions.

2. Jeremiah the Prophet
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope. He was often persecuted for his prophecies, which were unpopular with the leaders of Judah.

3. The Third Entrance to the House of the LORD
A specific location within the temple complex in Jerusalem. This setting indicates a private and possibly secretive meeting, highlighting the tension and fear surrounding the situation.

4. The House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people.

5. The Babylonian Siege
The historical context of this passage, where Babylon was besieging Jerusalem, leading to its eventual fall and the exile of its people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Seeking Godly Counsel
Zedekiah's request for Jeremiah's counsel, despite his fear, underscores the need for seeking God's wisdom through His appointed messengers.

Courage in Delivering God's Message
Jeremiah's willingness to speak the truth, even in the face of potential danger, serves as a model for believers to stand firm in their faith and convictions.

The Consequences of Fear and Indecision
Zedekiah's fear of his officials and the Babylonians led to his downfall, illustrating the dangers of indecision and lack of faith in God's promises.

The Role of Prophets in God's Plan
Jeremiah's role highlights the importance of prophets in guiding and warning God's people, reminding us of the value of Scripture and prophetic voices today.

The Sovereignty of God in History
The events surrounding Jerusalem's fall demonstrate God's control over nations and history, encouraging believers to trust in His ultimate plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Zedekiah's approach to seeking counsel from Jeremiah, and how does this apply to our own decision-making processes?

2. How does Jeremiah's courage in speaking God's truth challenge us in our own lives, especially when facing opposition or fear?

3. In what ways does the setting of the third entrance to the house of the LORD reflect the secrecy and tension of the situation, and how can this inform our understanding of the passage?

4. How do the events of Jeremiah 38:14 connect with the broader account of Jerusalem's fall, and what lessons can we draw about God's sovereignty and justice?

5. Reflecting on the role of prophets like Jeremiah, how can we discern and apply prophetic messages in our lives today, particularly through the study of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25
Provides a historical account of the fall of Jerusalem and the capture of Zedekiah, offering context to the events surrounding Jeremiah 38:14.

Jeremiah 1
Describes Jeremiah's calling as a prophet, emphasizing his role as God's mouthpiece, which is crucial to understanding his interactions with Zedekiah.

Ezekiel 12
Offers a parallel prophecy about the fall of Jerusalem and the fate of Zedekiah, reinforcing the themes of judgment and exile.