Jeremiah 21:10

For 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.'

Study Bible

For I have set My face
The phrase "set My face" is a Hebrew idiom that signifies a determined and resolute decision. In the context of the Old Testament, when God "sets His face" against something, it indicates His unwavering intention to act in judgment. This expression underscores the seriousness of God's resolve. Historically, this reflects the divine judgment that was to come upon Jerusalem due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry. The imagery of God setting His face against the city conveys a sense of divine focus and determination, emphasizing that the impending judgment is both deliberate and unavoidable.

against this city
The "city" referred to here is Jerusalem, the heart of Judah and the center of Jewish worship and identity. Jerusalem held a special place in the hearts of the Israelites as the location of the Temple, the dwelling place of God's presence. However, despite its sacred status, the city's inhabitants had turned away from God, leading to this pronouncement of judgment. The historical context reveals a city that had repeatedly ignored prophetic warnings, choosing instead to follow false gods and corrupt practices. This phrase highlights the gravity of the situation, as even the holy city is not exempt from God's righteous judgment.

to bring disaster and not good
The contrast between "disaster" and "good" is stark and intentional. The Hebrew word for "disaster" (רָעָה, ra'ah) often denotes calamity or evil, while "good" (טוֹב, tov) signifies prosperity and blessing. This juxtaposition serves to emphasize the severity of the consequences that Jerusalem will face due to its rebellion. In a broader theological context, this reflects the principle that God's blessings are contingent upon obedience, and His judgments are a response to persistent sin. The phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God's commands.

declares the LORD
This phrase is a common prophetic formula that underscores the authority and certainty of the message. When the prophets use "declares the LORD," it signifies that the words spoken are not their own but are directly from God. This divine declaration assures the audience that the prophecy is not merely a human prediction but a guaranteed outcome ordained by God. It reinforces the idea that the impending judgment is not arbitrary but is a fulfillment of God's righteous standards.

It will be given into the hand of the king of Babylon
The "king of Babylon" refers to Nebuchadnezzar, who was the instrument of God's judgment against Jerusalem. Historically, this prophecy was fulfilled when Nebuchadnezzar besieged and captured Jerusalem, leading to the Babylonian exile. The phrase "given into the hand" indicates a transfer of power and control, signifying that God is sovereign over nations and uses them to accomplish His purposes. This highlights the theme of divine sovereignty, where even powerful empires like Babylon are under God's ultimate authority.

and he will destroy it with fire
The destruction "with fire" is a vivid depiction of total devastation. Fire in the ancient world was often used as a means of complete destruction, leaving nothing behind. This prophecy was literally fulfilled when the Babylonians burned Jerusalem, including the Temple, to the ground. The use of fire symbolizes not only physical destruction but also the purifying judgment of God. In a spiritual sense, it serves as a warning of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and renewal. This phrase encapsulates the finality and thoroughness of God's judgment upon a city that had forsaken Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, including Zedekiah, during a time of great turmoil and impending judgment.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is both just and merciful. In this passage, He declares His intention to bring judgment upon Jerusalem due to the people's persistent disobedience.

3. The City (Jerusalem)
The capital of Judah, significant as the location of the Temple and the center of Jewish worship. Despite its religious significance, it faced destruction due to the people's unfaithfulness.

4. The King of Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar)
The ruler of the Babylonian Empire, used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah. His conquest of Jerusalem fulfilled the prophetic warnings given by Jeremiah.

5. The Event of Destruction
The prophesied destruction of Jerusalem by fire, symbolizing the severe judgment due to the people's rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Sovereignty
God is just and sovereign, and His judgments are righteous. He uses nations and leaders to accomplish His purposes, even when it involves judgment.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Persistent disobedience to God leads to severe consequences. The people of Jerusalem ignored repeated warnings, resulting in their downfall.

The Importance of Repentance
Repentance is crucial to avoid judgment. God desires His people to turn back to Him, and He provides opportunities for repentance before executing judgment.

Trust in God's Plan
Even in judgment, God has a plan for restoration. Believers can trust that God's ultimate purpose is for good, even when facing difficult circumstances.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah play a vital role in communicating God's messages. Their warnings should be heeded as they speak truth from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's justice and sovereignty in Jeremiah 21:10 affect your view of current world events?

2. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your relationship with God?

3. In what ways can you practice repentance in your daily life to align more closely with God's will?

4. How can the account of Jerusalem's destruction encourage you to trust in God's plan, even when facing personal challenges?

5. What role do you think modern-day "prophets" or spiritual leaders play in guiding believers today, and how can you discern their messages?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by Jerusalem.

2 Kings 25
Describes the historical fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy, detailing the siege and destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon.

Ezekiel 21
Another prophetic book that speaks of God's judgment against Jerusalem, reinforcing the message of impending disaster due to sin.

Lamentations 1
Offers a poetic reflection on the aftermath of Jerusalem's destruction, emphasizing the sorrow and desolation experienced by the people.