Jeremiah 49:30

Run! Escape quickly! Lie low, O residents of Hazor," declares the LORD, "for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon has drawn up a plan against you; he has devised a strategy against you.

Study Bible

Run! Escape quickly!
The urgency in this command reflects the imminent danger facing the people of Hazor. The Hebrew word for "run" (נוס, nus) conveys a sense of fleeing in haste, often used in contexts of escaping peril. This urgency is a divine warning, emphasizing the need for immediate action to avoid impending destruction. The phrase "escape quickly" reinforces the necessity of swiftness, suggesting that delay could result in catastrophe. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a call for believers to flee from sin and seek refuge in God without hesitation.

Lie low, O residents of Hazor
"Lying low" implies a need for concealment and humility. The Hebrew root (שׁפל, shaphel) can mean to be humble or to hide. Hazor, a significant city in ancient times, was known for its strategic location and fortifications. Yet, despite its strength, the residents are advised to humble themselves and seek safety in obscurity. This serves as a reminder that human strength and fortifications are insufficient against divine judgment. Spiritually, it calls believers to humility and reliance on God rather than on worldly defenses.

declares the LORD
This phrase underscores the authority and certainty of the message. The Hebrew term for "declares" (נאם, ne'um) is often used in prophetic literature to introduce a divine pronouncement. It assures the audience that the message is not merely a human warning but a decree from the sovereign God. This divine declaration invites trust in God's word and recognition of His ultimate control over nations and events.

for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar, a historical figure, was the powerful ruler of Babylon, known for his military conquests and the Babylonian exile of the Jews. His mention here situates the prophecy in a specific historical context, highlighting the geopolitical realities of the time. Nebuchadnezzar is often seen as an instrument of God's judgment, used to fulfill divine purposes. This reflects the biblical theme of God using even pagan rulers to accomplish His will.

has drawn up a plan against you
The phrase "drawn up a plan" indicates a deliberate and strategic intention. The Hebrew root (יעץ, ya'ats) suggests counsel or advice, often used in contexts of planning or devising a course of action. This highlights the calculated nature of Nebuchadnezzar's military strategy. In a broader sense, it serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare believers face and the need for vigilance and reliance on God's wisdom.

he has devised a strategy against you
The repetition of the concept of planning emphasizes the seriousness of the threat. The Hebrew word for "devised" (חשב, chashav) can mean to think, plan, or calculate. This suggests a well-thought-out approach, underscoring the inevitability of the coming attack. Spiritually, it calls believers to recognize the reality of spiritual adversaries and the importance of seeking God's guidance and protection in the face of such threats.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah and surrounding nations.

2. Hazor
An ancient city in the northern part of Canaan, significant in biblical history and often associated with judgment due to its idolatry and opposition to God's people.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his conquests and the Babylonian exile of the Jewish people. He is depicted as an instrument of God's judgment against nations.

4. Babylon
A powerful empire during the time of Jeremiah, often symbolizing human pride and opposition to God in biblical literature.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is sovereign over all nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and uses them to fulfill His divine purposes. We can trust in His ultimate plan, even when world events seem chaotic.

The Urgency of Obedience
The call to "run" and "escape quickly" underscores the urgency of responding to God's warnings. We should be quick to obey God's instructions in our lives.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
Just as Hazor faced judgment, we are reminded that God is just and will hold nations and individuals accountable. This should lead us to repentance and faithfulness.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah were God's messengers, calling people to repentance and warning of impending judgment. We should heed the messages of Scripture and those who faithfully teach it today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Hazor and its relationship with Israel help us understand the significance of this prophecy?

2. In what ways does the sovereignty of God over nations, as seen in Jeremiah 49:30, provide comfort and assurance in today's world?

3. How can we apply the urgency of the command to "run" and "escape quickly" in our spiritual lives today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the role of Nebuchadnezzar as an instrument of God's judgment, and how does this relate to God's use of leaders and nations today?

5. How do the themes of judgment and repentance in Jeremiah 49:30 connect with the broader message of the Gospel in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 25:9
This verse speaks of Nebuchadnezzar as God's servant, used to bring judgment upon nations, including Judah. It highlights God's sovereignty over world events.

Isaiah 13:17-19
These verses prophesy the fall of Babylon, showing that while God uses nations like Babylon for His purposes, they are also subject to His judgment.

Psalm 2:1-4
This passage speaks of the futility of nations plotting against the Lord, emphasizing God's ultimate authority and control over human affairs.