◄ Jeremiah 15 ►
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Judgment to Continue 1Then the LORD said to me: “Even if Moses and Samuel should stand before Me, My heart would not go out to this people. Send them from My presence, and let them go! 2If they ask you, ‘Where shall we go?’ you are to tell them that this is what the LORD says: ‘Those destined for death, to death; those destined for the sword, to the sword;a those destined for famine, to famine; and those destined for captivity, to captivity.’ 3I will appoint over them four kinds of destroyers, declares the LORD: the sword to kill, the dogs to drag away, and the birds of the air and beasts of the earth to devour and destroy. 4I will make them a horror to all the kingdoms of the earth because of what Manasseh son of Hezekiah king of Judah did in Jerusalem. 5Who will have pity on you, O Jerusalem? Who will mourn for you? Who will turn aside to ask about your welfare? 6You have forsaken Me, declares the LORD. You have turned your back. So I will stretch out My hand against you and I will destroy you; I am weary of showing compassion. 7I will scatter them with a winnowing fork at the gates of the land. I will bereave and destroy My people who have not turned from their ways. 8I will make their widows more numerous than the sand of the sea. I will bring a destroyer at noon against the mothers of young men. I will suddenly bring upon them anguish and dismay. 9The mother of seven will grow faint; she will breathe her last breath. Her sun will set while it is still day; she will be disgraced and humiliated. And the rest I will put to the sword in the presence of their enemies,” declares the LORD. Jeremiah’s Woe 10Woe to me, my mother, that you have borne me, a man of strife and conflict in all the land. I have neither lent nor borrowed, yet everyone curses me. 11The LORD said: “Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose; surely I will intercede with your enemy in your time of trouble, in your time of distress. 12Can anyone smash iron— iron from the north—or bronze? 13Your wealth and your treasures I will give up as plunder, without charge for all your sins within all your borders. 14Then I will enslave you to your enemies in a landb you do not know, for My anger will kindle a fire that will burn against you.” 15You understand, O LORD; remember me and attend to me. Avenge me against my persecutors. In Your patience, do not take me away. Know that I endure reproach for Your honor. 16Your words were found, and I ate them. Your words became my joy and my heart’s delight. For I bear Your name, O LORD God of Hosts. 17I never sat with the band of revelers, nor did I celebrate with them. Because Your hand was on me, I sat alone, for You have filled me with indignation. 18Why is my pain unending, and my wound incurable, refusing to be healed? You have indeed become like a mirage to me— water that is not there. The LORD’s Promise 19Therefore this is what the LORD says: “If you return, I will restore you; you will stand in My presence. And if you speak words that are noble instead of worthless, you will be My spokesman. It is they who must turn to you, but you must not turn to them. 20Then I will make you a wall to this people, a fortified wall of bronze; they will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you to save and deliver you, declares the LORD. 21I will deliver you from the hand of the wicked and redeem you from the grasp of the ruthless.” Footnotes: 2 a See Revelation 13:10. 14 b Some Hebrew manuscripts, LXX, and Syriac (see also Jeremiah 17:4); most Hebrew manuscripts Then I will cause your enemies to bring you into a land 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 15 Summary Jeremiah's Woe Verses 1–4 – Judgment Beyond Intercession Even if the greatest intercessors in Israel’s history—Moses and Samuel—stood before the LORD, He would not turn back His anger. The decree is final: death, sword, famine, and captivity. Four destroyers—dogs, birds, beasts, and the invading sword—will cleanse the land. All of this springs from the sins of King Manasseh, whose idolatry and bloodshed poisoned Judah. Verses 5–9 – Compassion Exhausted and Ruin Decreed No one will pity Jerusalem. The people have stubbornly turned their backs on God, so He will winnow them like chaff. Widows will multiply “more than the sand of the sea,” children will perish in broad daylight, and the once-proud mother of seven will faint and die. Survivors will fall by the sword before their enemies. Verses 10–14 – Jeremiah’s Lament and God’s Unstoppable Plan Jeremiah cries, “Woe to me, my mother, that you gave me birth!” Though he has never exploited anyone, he is cursed by all. God answers that He will protect the prophet, but the nation’s iron-like resistance—spearheaded by powers “from the north”—will not be broken. Judah’s treasures will become plunder, and her people will serve strangers in an unfamiliar land. Verses 15–18 – The Prophet’s Pain and Plea Jeremiah petitions the LORD to remember him, avenge him, and not let him perish. He recalls how he “ate” God’s words with delight, yet now sits alone, wounded, and bewildered. He wonders if God has become “like a deceptive brook,” a stream that dries up when most needed. Verses 19–21 – Restoration, Commission, and Divine Defense God invites the prophet to return to unwavering trust: speak what is precious, not worthless. The people must turn to Jeremiah, not the other way around. The LORD promises to make him “a wall of bronze”; foes will attack but never conquer. God Himself will deliver, rescue, and redeem His spokesman from the ruthless. Jeremiah 15 offers a heart-wrenching dialogue between the prophet Jeremiah and God. As Judah continues in disobedience, Jeremiah intercedes for his people, only to be met with divine rejection and an affirmation of impending judgment. Amid personal despair, Jeremiah receives a renewed promise of protection, providing a glimpse of hope amidst a backdrop of desolation. Setting and Background • Timeframe: Near the end of the seventh century BC, when Babylon’s power was rising and Judah’s loyalty to the covenant was at an all-time low. • Political climate: Jehoiakim likely rules; Egyptian influence is fading; Babylon advances from the north (2 Kings 24:1-2). • Spiritual climate: Centuries of idolatry climaxed under Manasseh (2 Kings 21:1-16). Though Josiah’s reforms slowed judgment, the national heart remained unchanged. Moses and Samuel—Models of Intercession • Moses pleaded for Israel after the golden calf (Exodus 32:11-14) and at Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 14:11-19). • Samuel interceded at Mizpah (1 Samuel 7:5-9) and in the monarchy’s birth pangs (1 Samuel 12:19-25). • Jeremiah 15:1 shows a line has been crossed. Persistent rebellion can reach a point where even the strongest prayer will not avert consequences (cf. Isaiah 22:12-14). Four Instruments of Judgment (v 3) 1. Sword—military invasion. 2. Dogs—scavengers dragging unburied corpses (1 Kings 14:11). 3. Birds—vultures, emblematic of shame (Revelation 19:17-18 echoes the image). 4. Beasts—wild animals finishing what war begins. These four match the covenant curses in Leviticus 26:22-33 and Ezekiel 14:21. Manasseh’s Legacy (v 4) • Filled Jerusalem “from one end to the other” with innocent blood (2 Kings 21:16). • Built altars to false gods in the temple courts (2 Chronicles 33:4-5). • Led the nation into child sacrifice in the Valley of Hinnom (Jeremiah 7:31). • His reign set Judah on an irreversible course—proof that leadership matters. Jeremiah’s Isolation and Integrity (v 10, 17) • He is blamed though blameless—an echo of Joseph (Genesis 40:14-15) and ultimately Christ (John 15:25). • Refuses to sit with revelers. Separation is costly but essential for a faithful messenger (Psalm 1:1). “Iron from the North” (v 12) • Likely Babylon’s hardened military might. Archaeologists have uncovered Neo-Babylonian iron weaponry along invasion routes, including arrowheads at sites near Lachish. • Babylon’s advance is compared to unstoppable metal, underscoring the futility of resistance without repentance. Feasting on the Word (v 16) • Jeremiah “ate” God’s words—taking them inwardly, much like Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:1-3) and John (Revelation 10:9-10). • Spiritual nourishment precedes effective ministry (Matthew 4:4). • Joy in Scripture does not immunize from hardship, but it anchors the soul. Conditional Promises (v 19-21) • “If you return… I will restore you.” Repentance is still possible for the individual, even when the nation faces judgment. • God distinguishes precious from worthless words. Truth must not be diluted to gain approval (Galatians 1:10). • A “wall of bronze” recalls Jeremiah’s original calling (Jeremiah 1:18). God equips and reaffirms. Archaeological Notes • Lachish Ostraca: letters from Judean soldiers during Babylon’s siege mention diminishing resources and capture of nearby towns, confirming the historical pressure Jeremiah describes. • Ketef Hinnom Silver Scrolls (late 7th c. BC): contain the priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) and show that biblical faith was active just before exile. • Babylonian Chronicle Tablets: detail Nebuchadnezzar’s campaign in 597 BC, matching the destruction trajectory foretold here. Links to Other Scriptures • Covenant curse pattern: Deuteronomy 28:15-68. • Prophets denied permission to intercede: Ezekiel 14:14–20 (Noah, Daniel, Job). • Lament parallel: Job 3 (Jeremiah echoes Job’s despair). • God’s faithful defense of His servants: Daniel 6:22; Acts 18:9-10; 2 Timothy 4:17-18. New Testament Echoes • Jesus weeps over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-44) much like Jeremiah, affirming God’s heart amid judgment. • Believers called to be uncompromising “walls” (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 6:10-13). • Eating the Word foreshadows Christ as the Living Bread (John 6:48-51). Practical Applications • Persistent sin eventually silences even the strongest prayers; repentance should never be delayed. • Faithful service may invite misunderstanding and hostility, but God sees and secures His servants. • Scripture internalized provides joy and stamina when ministry feels lonely or futile. • Stand firm: let the culture come to the truth, not the truth bend to the culture. • God’s promises outlast the fiercest opposition; obedience positions us to experience His rescue. Summary Takeaway Jeremiah 15 paints a sobering picture of judgment that cannot be averted, yet it also showcases God’s unwavering support for the one who clings to His word. The chapter urges every generation to turn back before reaching the point of no return, and to trust that God shields those who refuse to compromise His message. Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 32:11-14 Moses intercedes for Israel, showing the power of intercession when aligned with God's will. 1 Samuel 7:9 Samuel's intercession for Israel demonstrates the role of a faithful mediator. Ezekiel 22:30 God seeks someone to stand in the gap, highlighting the importance of intercessory prayer. 1 John 1:9 The promise of forgiveness and cleansing when we confess our sins. Teaching Points The Inevitability of Judgment Jeremiah 15:1 states, Then the LORD said to me: 'Even if Moses and Samuel should stand before Me, My heart would not go out to this people. Send them from My presence, and let them go.' This highlights the severity of Judah's sin and the certainty of God's judgment when His people persist in rebellion. The Consequences of Sin Verses 2-4 describe the various forms of judgment that will befall the people, including death, sword, famine, and captivity. This serves as a stark reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the inevitable consequences that follow unrepentance. God's Reluctant Anger Despite the harshness of the message, God's reluctance to bring judgment is evident. His heart is grieved by the people's persistent disobedience, showing that His desire is for repentance and restoration. Jeremiah's Lament and God's Assurance In verses 15-21, Jeremiah laments his suffering and isolation as a prophet. God responds with assurance, promising to deliver and protect him if he remains faithful. This interaction underscores the importance of perseverance and trust in God's promises. Practical Applications Reflect on Personal Sin Consider areas in your life where you may be resisting God's will. Confess and seek His forgiveness, knowing that He desires repentance and restoration. Understand the Seriousness of Disobedience Recognize that persistent sin has consequences. Let this understanding motivate you to live a life of obedience and faithfulness to God. Persevere in Faith Like Jeremiah, remain steadfast in your faith, even when facing opposition or isolation. Trust in God's promises and His ability to deliver you. Intercede for Others While Jeremiah was told not to intercede for Judah, we are called to pray for others, asking God to soften hearts and bring about repentance and revival. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in the chapter, the LORD is speaking to Jeremiah about the judgment that will come upon Judah due to their persistent sin and disobedience. The name "Yahweh" is derived from the Hebrew root "הוה" (hwh), meaning "to be," emphasizing God's eternal and self-existent nature. 2. Moses Mentioned in Jeremiah 15:1, Moses is referenced as a significant intercessor for Israel in the past. The LORD states, "Even if Moses and Samuel were to stand before Me, My heart would not go out to this people." This highlights Moses' historical role as a mediator between God and the Israelites. 3. Samuel Also mentioned in Jeremiah 15:1 alongside Moses, Samuel is another key intercessor from Israel's history. His inclusion underscores the severity of Judah's situation, as even the intercession of such a righteous figure would not sway God's decision. Places 1. Jerusalem The capital city of Judah, central to the prophecies of Jeremiah. It is often depicted as the focal point of God's judgment due to the people's unfaithfulness. 2. Judah The southern kingdom, which includes Jerusalem. Jeremiah's prophecies are primarily directed towards the people of Judah, warning them of impending judgment. 3. Babylon Although not mentioned in Jeremiah 15, Babylon is a significant place in the book as the empire that would eventually conquer Judah and lead its people into exile. In Jeremiah 15, the focus is more on the consequences of the people's actions and the resulting divine judgment rather than specific geographical locations. Events 1. The LORD's Reluctance to Relent The chapter begins with the LORD declaring to Jeremiah that even if Moses and Samuel were to stand before Him, His heart would not turn toward the people. This highlights the severity of Judah's sin and God's decision to bring judgment upon them (Jeremiah 15:1). 2. The Fourfold Judgment God outlines the four forms of judgment that will befall the people: death by sword, dogs to drag away, birds of the air, and beasts of the earth to devour and destroy. This reflects the comprehensive nature of the impending judgment (Jeremiah 15:2-3). 3. The Cause of Judgment The LORD explains that the judgment is due to the sins of Manasseh, son of Hezekiah, king of Judah, who led the people into idolatry and sin. This emphasizes the lasting impact of leadership and sin on a nation (Jeremiah 15:4). 4. The Desolation of Jerusalem God declares that He will make Jerusalem a horror to all the kingdoms of the earth because of their actions. This serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God (Jeremiah 15:5-6). 5. The Inescapable Punishment The LORD states that He will winnow them with a winnowing fork at the gates of the land, bereaving and destroying His people because they have not turned from their ways. This imagery of winnowing signifies separation and judgment (Jeremiah 15:7). 6. The Lament of Jeremiah Jeremiah expresses his personal anguish and isolation, feeling cursed and lamenting his birth. This reflects the prophet's deep empathy and burden for his people (Jeremiah 15:10). 7. God's Assurance to Jeremiah Despite the dire situation, God reassures Jeremiah that He will deliver him and make him a fortified wall of bronze. This promise underscores God's protection and faithfulness to His servants (Jeremiah 15:20-21). Lessons from Jeremiah 15 1. The Power of Intercession In Jeremiah 15, we see the profound impact of intercession, even when God declares judgment. Jeremiah pleads for his people, showing us the importance of standing in the gap for others. As it says in James 5:16, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." Our prayers can be a powerful force for change, so never underestimate the power of interceding for those around you. 2. The Consequences of Turning Away Jeremiah 15:6 reminds us of the consequences of turning away from God: "You have forsaken Me, declares the LORD, you have turned your back on Me." This serves as a sobering reminder that our choices have consequences. Staying close to God and His Word is essential for a life that honors Him and experiences His blessings. 3. God’s Relentless Pursuit Despite the people's rebellion, God’s heart is still for them. Jeremiah 15:11 says, "Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose." This shows us that God’s love and purpose for us remain steadfast, even when we stray. He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms, just like the father in the parable of the prodigal son. 4. The Importance of Repentance Repentance is a recurring theme in Jeremiah 15. God calls His people to return to Him, highlighting the importance of a repentant heart. As 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Repentance is the key to restoring our relationship with God. 5. God’s Faithfulness in Trials Jeremiah faced immense challenges, yet God promised to be with him. In Jeremiah 15:20, God says, "I will make you a wall to this people, a fortified wall of bronze." This illustrates that God equips us to withstand trials. His faithfulness is our stronghold, and He will never leave us nor forsake us. 6. The Call to Stand Firm Jeremiah was called to stand firm in his faith, despite opposition. In Jeremiah 15:19, God tells him, "If you return, I will restore you; you will stand before Me." This encourages us to remain steadfast in our convictions, knowing that God honors those who stand firm in their faith. 7. The Role of Scripture in Our Lives Jeremiah’s life underscores the importance of Scripture as our guide. As Psalm 119:105 declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Immersing ourselves in God’s Word equips us with wisdom and direction for every aspect of our lives. 8. The Assurance of God’s Presence In Jeremiah 15:21, God promises, "I will deliver you from the hand of the wicked and redeem you from the grasp of the ruthless." This assurance of God’s presence and protection is a comfort to us all. No matter what we face, we can trust that God is with us, guiding and protecting us. 9. The Necessity of Obedience Obedience is a central theme in Jeremiah 15. God’s blessings are tied to our obedience to His commands. As Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience is a reflection of our love for God and our desire to live according to His will. 10. The Hope of Restoration Finally, Jeremiah 15 offers hope of restoration. Despite the dire circumstances, God’s promise of restoration shines through. Jeremiah 15:19 says, "If you return, I will restore you." This hope is a reminder that no situation is beyond God’s ability to redeem and restore. With God, there is always hope for a new beginning. Topics 1. The Irrevocable Judgment of God (Jeremiah 15:1-4) God declares that even the intercession of Moses and Samuel would not avert His judgment on Judah due to their persistent sin. The Hebrew root for "reject" (מָאַס, ma'as) emphasizes God's firm decision against the people. 2. The Consequences of Sin (Jeremiah 15:5-9) The passage describes the desolation and suffering that will come upon Jerusalem as a result of their iniquity. The imagery of bereavement and destruction underscores the severity of their punishment. 3. Jeremiah's Lament and God's Response (Jeremiah 15:10-14) Jeremiah laments his role as a prophet, feeling cursed and isolated. God reassures him of His support but reiterates the inevitability of judgment. The Hebrew word for "lament" (נָהָה, nahah) reflects deep mourning. 4. The Call to Repentance and Restoration (Jeremiah 15:15-21) God promises to restore Jeremiah if he remains faithful, using him as a fortified wall against the people. The Hebrew root for "restore" (שׁוּב, shuv) signifies a return to favor and purpose. Themes 1. Divine Judgment and Rejection In Jeremiah 15, God expresses His decision to bring judgment upon Judah due to their persistent sin and rebellion. The chapter opens with God stating that even the intercession of Moses and Samuel would not avert His judgment (Jeremiah 15:1). The Hebrew word for "reject" (מָאַס, ma'as) underscores the severity of God's decision to reject His people because of their unfaithfulness. 2. Consequences of Sin The chapter outlines the dire consequences that will befall the people of Judah as a result of their sins. God describes four forms of destruction: the sword, dogs, birds, and beasts (Jeremiah 15:3). This reflects the comprehensive nature of the punishment, emphasizing that sin leads to inevitable and multifaceted consequences. 3. The Role of Prophets Jeremiah's role as a prophet is highlighted, as he laments his position and the burden of delivering such harsh messages (Jeremiah 15:10). The Hebrew term for "prophet" (נָבִיא, navi) signifies one who is called to speak on behalf of God, often facing opposition and isolation as a result. 4. God’s Assurance and Promise Despite the impending judgment, God offers assurance to Jeremiah, promising protection and deliverance (Jeremiah 15:20-21). This theme underscores the faithfulness of God to His servants, even amidst widespread unfaithfulness. The Hebrew root for "deliver" (נָצַל, natsal) conveys the idea of rescue and salvation. 5. Repentance and Restoration Implicit in the chapter is the call for repentance and the possibility of restoration. God’s willingness to restore Jeremiah if he returns to Him (Jeremiah 15:19) serves as a broader invitation for the people to repent. The Hebrew word for "return" (שׁוּב, shuv) is often used in the context of repentance, indicating a turning back to God. 6. The Burden of the Prophet Jeremiah expresses his personal anguish and the heavy burden of his prophetic mission (Jeremiah 15:15-18). This theme highlights the emotional and spiritual toll on those called to deliver God’s messages, reflecting the Hebrew understanding of a prophet as one who carries the weight of divine communication. 7. Divine Sovereignty Throughout the chapter, God’s sovereignty is evident in His control over the fate of nations and individuals. His declarations of judgment and promises of protection for Jeremiah affirm His ultimate authority and power over all creation. The Hebrew concept of God as "Yahweh" (יהוה) emphasizes His eternal and unchanging nature as the sovereign Lord. Prayer Points Repentance Pray for a heart of repentance and a willingness to turn away from sin. Faithfulness Ask God for strength to remain faithful and obedient, even in difficult circumstances. Intercession Pray for the ability to intercede effectively for others, seeking God's mercy and grace on their behalf. Trust in God's Promises Seek assurance in God's promises, asking for the faith to trust in His deliverance and protection. As we study Jeremiah 15, let us be reminded of the gravity of sin, the necessity of repentance, and the faithfulness of God to those who trust in Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. If Jeremiah 15:1 implies God would not listen to Moses or Samuel, how does this align with other passages portraying a merciful God? 2. Given Jeremiah 15:2’s mention of mass judgments—sword, famine, captivity—is there any archaeological evidence supporting such large-scale devastation? 3. In Jeremiah 15:6, God says, “I am weary with relenting,” yet other scriptures present Him as unchanging (e.g., Malachi 3:6). How do we reconcile this apparent contradiction? 4. The graphic punishments in Jeremiah 15:3 seem excessively harsh. Do they conflict with the concept of a just and loving God found elsewhere in the Bible? 5. Jeremiah 15:7 suggests complete destruction of Judah. Is there any historical or extra-biblical record of such total devastation that matches this claim? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jeremiah 15 reflect the theme of divine judgment? 2. In what ways does this chapter reveal the consequences of the nation's disobedience? 3. How does the historical context of Manasseh's reign contribute to the understanding of God's judgment? 4. Why do you think Jeremiah expresses regret about his birth in verses 10-14? 5. How can we reconcile Jeremiah's lament with his role as a prophet? 6. Can you identify with Jeremiah's feelings of despair? How? 7. How does God's response to Jeremiah's lament reflect His divine character? 8. What do verses 15-21 reveal about the conditions of divine protection? 9. How can we apply the principle of faithfulness amidst adversity in our lives today, as seen in Jeremiah's experience? 10. How can you use Jeremiah's situation as a guide when facing discouragement in your personal or spiritual life? 11. What does Jeremiah's dialogue with God teach us about honesty in prayer? 12. How does this chapter speak to the concept of repentance and its importance? 13. How might you respond if you were in Jeremiah's position? 14. How can this chapter inspire us to remain faithful to God’s call, even when faced with rejection? 15. How does Jeremiah's situation challenge our understanding of suffering in the Christian life? 16. In today's world, what can be likened to the "four kinds of destroyers" mentioned in verses 2 and 3? 17. How can we ensure that our words are "worthy and valuable" as mentioned in verse 19? 18. What does Jeremiah 15 teach about the role of prophets and the challenges they face? 19. In what ways can you apply God's reassurances to Jeremiah in your life today when you face difficult circumstances? 20. Based on Jeremiah's experiences in this chapter, how can we approach situations where we feel our faith is being tested? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions