Jeremiah 38:3

This is what the LORD says: This city will surely be delivered into the hands of the army of the king of Babylon, and he will capture it."

Study Bible

“This is what the LORD says”
This phrase is a common prophetic introduction found throughout the Old Testament, signifying that the message is not of human origin but divinely inspired. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. This introduction underscores the authority and seriousness of the message that follows, reminding the audience that it is God Himself who speaks through the prophet Jeremiah.

“This city”
Referring to Jerusalem, the city holds significant historical and theological importance as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. In Jeremiah's time, Jerusalem was under threat from Babylonian forces. The mention of "this city" evokes the gravity of the situation and the impending judgment due to the people's disobedience. Archaeological findings, such as the remnants of the city walls and artifacts from the period, provide tangible evidence of the city's historical context during Jeremiah's ministry.

“will surely be handed over”
The phrase indicates certainty and inevitability. The Hebrew verb used here conveys a sense of divine determination. This reflects the fulfillment of God's warnings through His prophets about the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion. The certainty of the city's fate serves as a sobering reminder of God's justice and the seriousness of covenant unfaithfulness.

“to the army of the king of Babylon”
The "army of the king of Babylon" refers to the military forces of Nebuchadnezzar II, the powerful ruler of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Historically, Babylon was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, and its army was known for its strength and strategic prowess. This phrase highlights the geopolitical realities of the time and the instrumentality of Babylon in executing God's judgment on Jerusalem.

“and he will capture it.”
The pronoun "he" refers to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. The certainty of the city's capture is emphasized, fulfilling the prophetic warnings given by Jeremiah. This outcome serves as a testament to the accuracy of prophetic revelation and the sovereignty of God over nations and history. The capture of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. is a pivotal event in biblical history, leading to the Babylonian exile, which profoundly shaped Jewish identity and theology.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance in the face of opposition.

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

3. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, which is under threat from Babylonian forces.

4. The King of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar II, the ruler of the Babylonian Empire, who is used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah.

5. The Army of Babylon
The military force that besieges and eventually captures Jerusalem, fulfilling God's prophecy through Jeremiah.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign over nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes, even in judgment. This should remind us of His ultimate control over world events.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The fall of Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience to God’s commands. It calls us to examine our own lives for areas of unrepentant sin.

The Role of the Prophet
Jeremiah’s role highlights the importance of faithfully delivering God’s message, regardless of opposition or personal cost. We are called to be faithful witnesses in our own contexts.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While this passage speaks of judgment, the broader account of Scripture assures us of God’s redemptive plan. Even in judgment, God’s ultimate purpose is restoration and hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God’s sovereignty over nations influence your perspective on current world events?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of disobedience in our own lives or communities, and how should we respond?

3. What challenges do you face in being a faithful witness to God’s truth, and how can Jeremiah’s example encourage you?

4. How can we find hope in God’s redemptive plan, even when facing difficult circumstances or judgment?

5. How does the fall of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile connect to the broader account of God’s plan for redemption through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 21:10
This verse also speaks of God's determination to give Jerusalem into the hands of the Babylonians, reinforcing the message of inevitable judgment.

2 Kings 25:1-12
Describes the historical fulfillment of this prophecy, detailing the siege and fall of Jerusalem to Babylon.

Lamentations 1:1-5
Offers a poetic reflection on the aftermath of Jerusalem's fall, highlighting the sorrow and desolation that followed.

Daniel 1:1-2
Provides a broader context of the Babylonian captivity, showing how God’s sovereignty extends over nations and kings.