Jeremiah 51:16

When He thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; He causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth. He generates the lightning with the rain and brings forth the wind from His storehouses.

Study Bible

When He thunders
The phrase "When He thunders" evokes the powerful and awe-inspiring voice of God. In Hebrew, the word for "thunder" is "ra'am," which signifies a loud, resounding noise. This imagery is often used in the Bible to describe God's majestic and authoritative voice, as seen in Psalm 29:3, "The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders." The thunder represents God's sovereign power and His ability to command creation, reminding us of His ultimate authority over the universe.

the waters in the heavens
This phrase refers to the celestial waters, which in ancient Near Eastern cosmology were believed to be held above the firmament. The Hebrew word for "waters" is "mayim," and it often symbolizes chaos and the unknown. However, God is depicted as having control over these waters, as seen in Genesis 1:7, where He separates the waters above from the waters below. This demonstrates His dominion over chaos and His ability to bring order and structure to creation.

are tumultuous
The word "tumultuous" suggests a state of chaos and disorder. In Hebrew, the root word "hamah" conveys a sense of noise, commotion, or agitation. This imagery highlights the contrast between the natural world's chaos and God's sovereign control. Despite the tumult, God remains unshaken and authoritative, emphasizing His power to bring peace and order amidst disorder.

and He causes the clouds to rise
Here, the focus shifts to God's active role in creation. The Hebrew word for "causes to rise" is "alah," which means to ascend or go up. This action signifies God's involvement in the natural processes of the world. By causing the clouds to rise, God demonstrates His providential care and sustenance of creation, as clouds are essential for rain and the nourishment of the earth.

from the ends of the earth
This phrase underscores the vastness of God's creation and His omnipresence. The "ends of the earth" is a Hebrew idiom, "qatseh ha'aretz," indicating the farthest reaches of the world. It serves as a reminder that there is no place beyond God's reach or influence. His power and presence extend to every corner of the earth, affirming His sovereignty over all creation.

He makes lightning for the rain
The imagery of lightning and rain highlights God's control over the elements. In Hebrew, "lightning" is "baraq," and it often symbolizes divine intervention or revelation. Rain, "matar" in Hebrew, is a blessing and a sign of God's provision. By making lightning for the rain, God demonstrates His ability to orchestrate the natural world for the benefit of His creation, providing both illumination and sustenance.

and brings forth the wind from His storehouses
This phrase illustrates God's command over the winds, which in Hebrew is "ruach," also meaning spirit or breath. The "storehouses" or "otzar" in Hebrew, suggest a place of abundance and reserve. This imagery conveys the idea that God has an inexhaustible supply of resources and power. He dispenses the wind according to His will, further emphasizing His control over creation and His ability to provide for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Jeremiah is known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah, which includes warnings to the nations and promises of hope.

2. Babylon
The context of Jeremiah 51 is a prophecy against Babylon, a powerful empire known for its conquest of Judah and the destruction of Jerusalem. This chapter foretells Babylon's downfall as a demonstration of God's sovereignty.

3. God's Creation
The verse highlights God's control over natural elements like thunder, rain, and wind, emphasizing His power and authority over creation.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
This verse reminds us that God is in control of all creation. The natural world responds to His command, demonstrating His ultimate authority.

The Power of God's Word
Just as God's voice commands the elements, His Word holds power in our lives. We should trust in His promises and commands, knowing they are backed by His omnipotence.

God's Judgment and Mercy
While the context of this verse is a prophecy of judgment against Babylon, it also serves as a reminder of God's justice and mercy. He judges nations but also offers redemption.

Trust in God's Provision
The imagery of God bringing rain and wind from His storehouses can be seen as a metaphor for His provision. We can trust that God will supply our needs according to His riches.

Awareness of God's Presence
Recognizing God's hand in the natural world can deepen our awareness of His presence in our daily lives. We should cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for His creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's control over nature in Jeremiah 51:16 affect your view of His sovereignty in your personal life?

2. In what ways can you see the power of God's Word reflected in your daily experiences, similar to how His voice commands the elements?

3. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Jeremiah 51 encourage you to trust in God's justice and mercy in today's world?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in your life. How does this verse reinforce your trust in His ability to provide?

5. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in the natural world around you, and how might this impact your spiritual walk?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1
The creation account in Genesis parallels the themes of God's sovereignty and creative power, as He speaks the universe into existence.

Psalm 29
This psalm describes the voice of the Lord as powerful and majestic, echoing the imagery of God's control over natural phenomena.

Job 38
In God's response to Job, He questions Job about the mysteries of creation, including the control of weather, which underscores God's omnipotence.