◄ Jeremiah 21 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Jerusalem Will Fall to Babylon 1This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD when King Zedekiah sent to him Pashhur son of Malchijah and the priest Zephaniah son of Maaseiah. They said, 2“Please inquire of the LORD on our behalf, since Nebuchadnezzara king of Babylon is waging war against us. Perhaps the LORD will perform for us something like all His past wonders, so that Nebuchadnezzar will withdraw from us.” 3But Jeremiah answered, “You are to tell Zedekiah that 4this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I will turn against you the weapons of war in your hands, with which you are fighting the king of Babylon and the Chaldeansb who besiege you outside the wall, and I will assemble their forces in the center of this city. 5And I Myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm, with anger, fury, and great wrath. 6I will strike down the residents of this city, both man and beast. They will die in a terrible plague.’ 7‘After that,’ declares the LORD, ‘I will hand over Zedekiah king of Judah, his officers, and the people in this city who survive the plague and sword and famine, to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and to their enemies who seek their lives. He will put them to the sword; he will not spare them or show pity or compassion.’ 8Furthermore, you are to tell this people that this is what the LORD says: ‘Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death. 9Whoever stays in this city will die by sword and famine and plague, but whoever goes out and surrenders to the Chaldeans who besiege you will live; he will retain his life like a spoil of war. 10For I have set My face against this city to bring disaster and not good, declares the LORD. It will be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon, who will destroy it with fire.’ A Message to the House of David 11Moreover, tell the house of the king of Judah to hear the word of the LORD. 12O house of David, this is what the LORD says: ‘Administer justice every morning, and rescue the victim of robbery from the hand of his oppressor, or My wrath will go forth like fire and burn with no one to extinguish it because of their evil deeds. 13Behold, I am against you who dwell above the valley, atop the rocky plateau— declares the LORD— you who say, “Who can come against us? Who can enter our dwellings?” 14I will punish you as your deeds deserve, declares the LORD. I will kindle a fire in your forest that will consume everything around you.’” Footnotes: 2 a Hebrew Nebuchadrezzar, a variant of Nebuchadnezzar (king of Babylon), which occurs frequently in Jeremiah. The latter spelling is used throughout Jeremiah for consistency. 4 b That is, the Babylonians; also in verse 9 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Jeremiah 21 Summary Jerusalem Will Fall to Babylon Verses 1–2 – Royal Appeal for a Miracle King Zedekiah, staring at Babylon’s armies, sends Pashhur son of Malchiah and the priest Zephaniah to Jeremiah, begging him to “inquire of the LORD… Perhaps the LORD will perform for us wonders as in times past” (v. 2). Verses 3–7 – The LORD Becomes Jerusalem’s Opponent Jeremiah replies that God Himself will turn Judah’s weapons inward, fight against His own city “with an outstretched hand … in anger and fury” (v. 5), unleash plague, and hand Zedekiah to Nebuchadnezzar with “no mercy or pity or compassion” (v. 7). Verses 8–10 – Two Paths: Life or Death God sets “the way of life and the way of death” before the people (v. 8). Stay in the city—die by sword, famine, plague. Surrender—“he will retain his life like a spoil of war” (v. 9). The city itself is doomed to fire (v. 10). Verses 11–14 – Last Plea to the House of David The king’s court is told: “Administer justice every morning… or My wrath will go forth like fire” (v. 12). Judah’s leaders trust their high ground, but God warns: “I will punish you according to your deeds… I will kindle a fire in your forest” (vv. 14). Jeremiah 21 delivers a stirring account of a powerful message from God to King Zedekiah of Judah through His prophet Jeremiah. The chapter vividly depicts the forthcoming divine judgment on Jerusalem due to its persistent disobedience, despite warnings and prophecies. The chapter emphasizes the futility of rebellion against God's will and the serious consequences of defiance. Historical Setting • Date: about 588–587 BC, during Babylon’s final siege of Jerusalem. • King: Zedekiah, the last ruler of David’s line before exile (2 Kings 24:17–20). • Political climate: Judah had rebelled against Babylon, counting on Egypt (Jeremiah 37:5), but Babylon returned with overwhelming force. • Jeremiah has preached for four decades; the royal court has ignored him, imprisoned him, and burned his scroll (Jeremiah 36). Key Characters • Zedekiah – weak king torn between prophets of peace and Jeremiah’s warnings (compare 2 Kings 25:4–7). • Pashhur son of Malchiah – likely a palace official; not the same Pashhur who beat Jeremiah in chapter 20. • Zephaniah son of Maaseiah – second-ranking priest; later executed by Babylon (2 Kings 25:18–21). • Nebuchadnezzar – tool of divine judgment; called “My servant” (Jeremiah 25:9). • Jeremiah – faithful messenger; soon thrown into a cistern for repeating this very message (Jeremiah 38). Literary Flow 1. Inquiry from the king (vv. 1–2) 2. Oracle of judgment (vv. 3–7) 3. Choice of surrender (vv. 8–10) 4. Address to the royal house (vv. 11–14) The chapter moves from national leadership to individual decision, from hope for rescue to confronting personal responsibility. Themes: Judgment, Mercy, and Choice • God fights against sin—even if it means opposing His own people (v. 5). • Mercy remains: surrender means life (v. 9). Like Noah’s ark or the blood on Passover doors, God always provides a way out (Genesis 6; Exodus 12). • Personal choice matters. Compare Deuteronomy 30:15–19: “I set before you life and death.” • Justice is non-negotiable (v. 12). Micah 6:8 and Amos 5:24 echo the call. Archaeological Insights • Excavations in Jerusalem’s City of David show burn layers dated to 586 BC, confirming a fiery end (v. 10). • Lachish Letters—ostraca written during this siege—speak of Babylon’s approach and shrinking outposts, matching Jeremiah’s urgency. • Bullae (clay seal impressions) bearing names like “Pashhur” and “Gedaliah” have been found in the strata, placing Jeremiah’s contemporaries in real history. Related Scriptures • 2 Chronicles 36:12–14 describes Zedekiah’s stubborn heart. • Ezekiel 17:11–21 condemns the same king for breaking oath with Babylon. • Isaiah 30:15 promised: “In quietness and trust is your strength,” but Judah “would not.” • Luke 19:41–44—Jesus weeps over Jerusalem’s later destruction; the pattern repeats when a city rejects God’s peace. Language Notes • “Chaldeans” (v. 4, 9) = Babylonians. • “Forest” in v. 14 may reference Lebanon cedar used in royal palaces (1 Kings 7:2), picturing the palace complex going up in flames. • “Way of life… way of death” (v. 8) is a Hebrew idiom for stark alternatives, later echoed in early church teaching called the Didache. Surrender vs. Resistance • Human logic: defend the city, trust walls. • God’s logic: walls offer no safety when He is the attacker. • Those who surrendered (Jeremiah 38:19) ended up in exile but alive; resisting leaders died or were blinded (2 Kings 25:7). • Application: when God shows a path to life, prideful resistance is deadly (James 4:6). A Glimpse Forward to Christ • Jeremiah pleads for justice “every morning” (v. 12); Jesus, the righteous Branch (Jeremiah 23:5), embodies perfect justice and offers rescue not by escape from Babylon but through the cross. • Like surrendering to Babylon to save life, the gospel calls us to lose our life for Christ to save it (Matthew 16:24–25). Practical Lessons Today 1. Do right even when culture crumbles—justice at home and at work is still God’s command. 2. Religious trappings cannot shield unrepentant hearts. The temple stood, yet God fought against it. 3. God’s rescue may appear humiliating (surrender) but leads to life. 4. National leaders are accountable: righteousness exalts a nation (Proverbs 14:34). 5. Every crisis is also a spiritual test: will we trust God’s word or public opinion? Summary Snapshot Jeremiah 21 warns that no amount of last-minute praying will override years of ignored truth. Yet even in judgment, God lays out a door of mercy. The chapter challenges leaders and ordinary people alike: choose the way of life while it is still open, and live out justice in the daylight so that no fire of wrath must fall. Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 30:19-20 Similar to Jeremiah 21:8-10, this passage presents the choice between life and death, blessing and curse, urging obedience to God. Ezekiel 18:30-32 Echoes the call to repentance and the offer of life, emphasizing God’s desire for the wicked to turn from their ways. Romans 11:22 Highlights both the kindness and severity of God, reminding us of the balance between His justice and mercy. Teaching Points God’s Sovereignty in Judgment Jeremiah 21:3-7 highlights God’s control over nations and His use of Babylon as an instrument of judgment against Judah. This reminds us that God is sovereign over all events and uses them to fulfill His purposes. The Consequences of Disobedience In verses 8-10, God sets before the people the way of life and the way of death, emphasizing the dire consequences of their continued rebellion. This serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and the importance of obedience. The Role of Prophets Jeremiah’s role as a prophet is to deliver God’s message, regardless of its popularity. This underscores the importance of faithfulness in proclaiming God’s truth, even when it is difficult. God’s Justice and Mercy While the chapter primarily focuses on judgment, the offer of life to those who surrender (v. 9) reflects God’s mercy and desire for repentance. Practical Applications Evaluate Your Allegiances Consider whether there are areas in your life where you are resisting God’s will. Are you aligning yourself with God’s purposes or opposing them? Heed God’s Warnings Reflect on how you respond to God’s warnings in Scripture. Are you quick to repent and seek His guidance, or do you persist in disobedience? Faithfulness in Witness Like Jeremiah, be committed to sharing God’s truth, even when it is countercultural or unpopular. Pray for courage and wisdom in your witness. Trust in God’s Sovereignty In times of uncertainty or crisis, remember that God is in control. Trust in His plan and seek His guidance in all circumstances. People 1. Jeremiah The prophet who delivers God's message to the people of Judah. Jeremiah is a central figure in the book, known for his role as a messenger of God's judgment and hope. 2. Zedekiah The king of Judah at the time. He sends messengers to Jeremiah seeking guidance and a favorable word from the Lord as the Babylonian threat looms. 3. Pashhur One of the messengers sent by King Zedekiah to Jeremiah. Pashhur is a priest and an official, indicating his significant role in the religious and political landscape of Judah. 4. Zephaniah Another messenger sent by King Zedekiah. Zephaniah is identified as a priest, specifically the son of Maaseiah, highlighting his priestly lineage and authority. Places 1. Jerusalem This is the central location in Jeremiah 21. The chapter addresses the fate of Jerusalem as it faces the impending Babylonian siege. The city is the heart of Judah and the focal point of the prophecy. In Hebrew, Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which means "foundation of peace," though ironically, it is facing destruction in this context. 2. The House of the King of Judah This refers to the royal palace in Jerusalem, where the king resides. The prophecy is directed towards the king and his officials, urging them to execute justice and righteousness to avert disaster. The Hebrew term for "house" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), indicating the royal household or palace. 3. The House of David This is a reference to the Davidic dynasty, the ruling family in Judah. The prophecy calls upon the descendants of David to act justly. The term "House of David" emphasizes the covenantal lineage and the responsibilities that come with it. Events 1. Inquiry from King Zedekiah King Zedekiah sends Pashhur son of Malkijah and the priest Zephaniah son of Maaseiah to Jeremiah, asking him to inquire of the LORD on behalf of the people, hoping for divine intervention against Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon (Jeremiah 21:1-2). 2. Jeremiah's Response from the LORD Jeremiah delivers the LORD's message to Zedekiah, stating that God will turn back the weapons of war in their hands and bring disaster upon them, as He Himself will fight against them with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm (Jeremiah 21:3-5). 3. Prophecy of Defeat and Destruction The LORD declares that He will strike down the inhabitants of Jerusalem with a great plague, and those who survive will be delivered into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar, who will show no mercy (Jeremiah 21:6-7). 4. Choice of Life or Death The LORD sets before the people a choice: those who stay in the city will die by sword, famine, and plague, but those who surrender to the Babylonians will live and escape with their lives (Jeremiah 21:8-9). 5. Divine Determination Against Jerusalem God emphasizes His determination to bring harm to the city, not good, and that it will be given into the hands of the king of Babylon, who will burn it with fire (Jeremiah 21:10). In this passage, the Hebrew roots highlight the seriousness of God's judgment and the inevitability of the consequences due to the people's disobedience. The use of terms like "outstretched hand" (יָד נְטוּיָה, yad netuyah) signifies God's active involvement in the judgment process, emphasizing His power and authority. Lessons from Jeremiah 21 1. Seek God’s Guidance in Times of Trouble When King Zedekiah sent messengers to Jeremiah, he was seeking divine intervention in a time of crisis. This reminds us to turn to God first when we face challenges. As Jeremiah 21:2 says, “Please inquire of the LORD for us, since Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is waging war against us.” In our own lives, seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and Scripture should be our first response, not our last resort. 2. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations Jeremiah’s response highlights God’s control over the affairs of nations. In Jeremiah 21:4, God declares, “I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands.” This serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how chaotic the world seems, God is in control. Trusting in His sovereignty brings peace amidst uncertainty. 3. The Consequences of Disobedience The chapter underscores the serious consequences of turning away from God. Jeremiah 21:5 states, “I Myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm.” This is a sobering reminder that disobedience leads to judgment. It encourages us to live in alignment with God’s will, knowing that His ways are always for our good. 4. The Call to Repentance Even in the face of impending judgment, God’s desire is for His people to turn back to Him. Jeremiah 21:8 offers a choice: “Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.” This echoes the call to repentance found throughout Scripture, urging us to choose life by turning from sin and embracing God’s grace. 5. The Importance of Justice and Righteousness God’s message through Jeremiah emphasizes the need for justice and righteousness. In Jeremiah 21:12, we read, “Administer justice every morning, and rescue the victim of robbery.” This challenges us to reflect God’s character in our actions, advocating for justice and caring for those in need. 6. The Reality of God’s Judgment Jeremiah 21 vividly portrays the reality of God’s judgment against sin. In verse 14, God declares, “I will punish you according to the fruit of your deeds.” This serves as a reminder that God’s justice is perfect and that we are accountable for our actions. It encourages us to live with integrity and humility. 7. The Hope of Deliverance Amidst the warnings, there is a glimmer of hope. God’s ultimate desire is to deliver and restore His people. Jeremiah 21:9 offers a way of escape: “Whoever goes out and surrenders to the Chaldeans who besiege you will live.” This points to the hope we have in Christ, who offers us deliverance from sin and death. 8. The Power of God’s Word Jeremiah’s message demonstrates the power and authority of God’s Word. Despite the dire circumstances, God’s Word remains true and unchanging. This encourages us to hold fast to Scripture, allowing it to guide and transform our lives, as it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12). 9. The Necessity of Faithful Leadership The chapter highlights the failure of Judah’s leaders to guide the people in righteousness. This underscores the importance of faithful leadership in our communities and churches. Leaders are called to shepherd God’s people with wisdom and integrity, reflecting Christ’s example. 10. The Assurance of God’s Presence Finally, Jeremiah 21 reminds us that God is with us, even in the midst of trials. While the message was one of judgment, God’s presence was evident. This assures us that no matter what we face, God is with us, offering His strength and comfort. As He promises in Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” These lessons from Jeremiah 21 encourage us to live faithfully, seek God’s guidance, and trust in His sovereign plan. May they inspire you to walk closely with the Lord, knowing that His Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Topics 1. The Inquiry of King Zedekiah King Zedekiah sends Pashhur and Zephaniah to Jeremiah to inquire of the LORD regarding Nebuchadnezzar's siege of Jerusalem. This reflects the desperation of the king seeking divine intervention. The Hebrew root for "inquire" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies seeking with diligence and care. 2. The LORD's Response to Zedekiah The LORD, through Jeremiah, responds that He will not deliver Jerusalem but will instead turn the weapons of the city back upon its inhabitants. This highlights the theme of divine judgment due to the people's disobedience. The Hebrew word for "turn back" (שׁוּב, shuv) often denotes a reversal or return, emphasizing the reversal of fortunes for Jerusalem. 3. The Fate of Jerusalem God declares that He Himself will fight against Jerusalem with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm, bringing disaster upon the city. This illustrates the severity of God's judgment. The phrase "outstretched hand" (יָד נְטוּיָה, yad netuyah) is a common biblical metaphor for God's power and intervention. 4. The Choice of Life or Death The LORD sets before the people a choice between life and death, urging them to surrender to the Babylonians to live. This presents a theme of mercy amidst judgment, offering a way of escape. The Hebrew word for "life" (חַיִּים, chayyim) signifies not just survival but a quality of life under God's provision. 5. The Destruction of the Royal House of Judah A specific prophecy is given against the house of the king of Judah, warning of its destruction due to injustice and unrighteousness. This underscores the accountability of leadership before God. The Hebrew term for "justice" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) is central to the covenantal relationship between God and His people. 6. The Call for Justice and Righteousness The LORD calls for the execution of justice and righteousness to prevent further wrath. This reflects the consistent biblical call for ethical living as a response to God's covenant. The Hebrew word for "righteousness" (צְדָקָה, tzedakah) conveys a sense of right relationships and moral integrity. Themes 1. Divine Judgment Jeremiah 21 emphasizes God's impending judgment on Jerusalem due to the people's persistent disobedience. The chapter opens with a message from the Lord to King Zedekiah, warning of the consequences of their actions: "I will turn back the weapons of war that are in your hands" (Jeremiah 21:4). The Hebrew root for "turn back" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a reversal or return, indicating God's active role in redirecting the outcome of their battles. 2. Inevitability of Consequences The inevitability of the consequences of sin is a central theme. God declares that He Himself will fight against Jerusalem: "I Myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm" (Jeremiah 21:5). The phrase "outstretched hand" (יָד נְטוּיָה, yad netuyah) is often used to describe God's power and intervention, underscoring the certainty of His judgment. 3. Call to Repentance Despite the dire warnings, there is an implicit call to repentance. The message to the people includes a choice between life and death: "Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine, and plague, but whoever goes out and surrenders to the Chaldeans...will live" (Jeremiah 21:9). The Hebrew word for "live" (חָיָה, chayah) suggests not just survival but a return to a state of blessing, indicating hope for those who turn back to God. 4. Sovereignty of God The sovereignty of God is highlighted as He declares His control over the fate of nations and individuals. The Lord's decision to hand over the city to the king of Babylon (Jeremiah 21:10) reflects His ultimate authority over earthly powers. The Hebrew term for "set My face against" (שׂוּם פָּנַי, sum panay) conveys a deliberate and determined action by God. 5. Moral Responsibility of Leaders The chapter underscores the moral responsibility of leaders to act justly. The message to the house of David is clear: "Administer justice every morning, and rescue the victim of robbery" (Jeremiah 21:12). The Hebrew root for "justice" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) emphasizes the importance of righteous judgment and the leaders' duty to uphold God's standards. Prayer Points Repentance and Obedience Pray for a heart that is quick to repent and eager to obey God’s commands. Courage in Witness Ask God for boldness and faithfulness in sharing His truth with others, even when it is difficult. Trust in God’s Plan Seek God’s peace and assurance in His sovereignty, especially in challenging times. National and Global Leaders Pray for leaders to seek God’s wisdom and guidance, and for nations to turn to God in humility and repentance. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Jeremiah 21:2 claim the Lord would not rescue Jerusalem when other passages promise divine protection for the city? 2. Why does Jeremiah 21:4–7 depict God actively fighting against His own people, contradicting the notion of a loving deity? 3. If no significant archaeological evidence has confirmed this exact siege scenario in Jeremiah 21, can we trust the historicity of the account? 4. Why would God threaten complete destruction (Jeremiah 21:5–6) instead of offering a path to repentance, seeming to contradict earlier scriptures that highlight mercy? 5. What scientific or historical data supports Jeremiah 21’s timeframe and events, given the lack of external records mentioning these specific warnings to King Zedekiah? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the message Jeremiah delivers to King Zedekiah in verses 3-7 reflect God's sovereignty? 2. What does this chapter teach about the repercussions of persistent disobedience? 3. How might the choice offered to the people of Jerusalem in verses 8-10 apply to personal decisions we make today? 4. In what ways do you see the themes of divine judgment and human rebellion in your life or society today? 5. How does God's message through Jeremiah speak to modern political and social justice issues? 6. How would you react if you were in Zedekiah's place receiving such a prophecy from Jeremiah? 7. How does Jeremiah's role as a prophet in this chapter reflect on our responsibility to share uncomfortable truths? 8. In what situations might you have to make a decision similar to the one presented to the people of Jerusalem: surrender and live, or resist and perish? 9. What can we learn from the futile attempts of King Zedekiah to seek help from Egypt instead of turning to God? 10. How does the warning to the royal house of Judah apply to leaders today? 11. What does this chapter reveal about God's character in terms of His justice and mercy? 12. How do the themes of prophecy and its fulfillment apply to our understanding of biblical prophecy today? 13. How can the warnings in this chapter help us discern when to resist and when to surrender in our life situations? 14. How do you reconcile God's love with the harsh judgement seen in Jeremiah 21? 15. What does Jeremiah 21 teach about the importance of accountability for one's actions, both as individuals and as a society? 16. How would you relate the siege of Jerusalem with any personal trials you have experienced? 17. What is the significance of the King Zedekiah seeking Jeremiah's intercession with God? How does it apply to our prayer life? 18. What are the implications of God fighting against His own people? How does this relate to the concept of divine discipline? 19. How does this chapter illustrate the pitfalls of misplaced reliance (such as on Egypt) in times of crisis? 20. Considering Jeremiah 21, how can you better discern and respond to God's will in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions