Jeremiah 21:11

Moreover, tell the house of the king of Judah to hear the word of the LORD.

Study Bible

Moreover
This word serves as a continuation or an addition to what has been previously stated. In the context of Jeremiah 21, it indicates that the message is part of a larger discourse. The Hebrew word used here is "וְאֶל" (ve'el), which connects the previous judgments pronounced on Jerusalem with a specific message to the royal house. It underscores the seriousness and continuity of God's message through Jeremiah.

say
The Hebrew word "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which means to speak or declare. This is a command from God to Jeremiah, emphasizing the prophet's role as a mouthpiece for divine communication. It highlights the authority and responsibility of prophets in delivering God's messages, regardless of the audience's status or power.

to the house of the king of Judah
This phrase identifies the specific audience of the message. The "house of the king" refers to the royal family and the governing authorities of Judah. Historically, this was a time when the kingdom of Judah was under threat from Babylonian forces. The phrase underscores the accountability of leaders before God and their role in guiding the nation according to His will.

Hear
The Hebrew word "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to listen or obey. It is a call not just to hear audibly but to understand and act upon the message. This imperative highlights the importance of receptivity to God's word, especially for those in positions of leadership. It is a reminder that true hearing involves obedience and transformation.

the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies the divine origin and authority of the message. "The word of the LORD" is a common biblical expression denoting a revelation from God. In Hebrew, "דְּבַר־יְהוָה" (devar-YHWH) is used, emphasizing that the message is not Jeremiah's own but is directly from God. It serves as a reminder of the power and truth of God's word, which stands above human wisdom and authority.

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 tumultuous period leading up to the Babylonian exile.

2. House of the King of Judah
Refers to the royal family and the ruling authorities in Judah. At this time, the king was Zedekiah, who was facing the threat of Babylonian invasion.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through His prophets to guide, warn, and instruct His people.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing imminent judgment due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry.

5. Babylonian Threat
The geopolitical context of this passage involves the looming threat of Babylonian conquest, which was a direct consequence of Judah's unfaithfulness to God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Listening to God’s Word
The call to "hear the word of the LORD" emphasizes the necessity of being attentive and responsive to God's instructions. In our lives, we must prioritize listening to God's voice through Scripture and prayer.

Leadership Accountability
The message directed to the house of the king underscores the responsibility of leaders to act justly and righteously. Christian leaders today are called to lead with integrity and align their actions with biblical principles.

Consequences of Disobedience
Judah's impending judgment serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. We are encouraged to examine our lives and repent of any disobedience to avoid similar outcomes.

God’s Persistent Call to Repentance
Despite Judah's repeated failures, God continues to call them to repentance. This reflects His patience and desire for restoration, encouraging us to never lose hope in God's willingness to forgive and restore.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
Jeremiah's role as a prophet highlights the importance of Scripture as God's means of communication. We are reminded to value and study the Bible as the authoritative guide for our faith and practice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to "hear the word of the LORD" in Jeremiah 21:11 challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can leaders today learn from the message directed to the house of the king of Judah?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of disobedience. How did that situation help you grow in your faith?

4. How can we cultivate a heart that is responsive to God's call for repentance and change?

5. What role does Scripture play in your life as a means of hearing God's voice, and how can you deepen your engagement with it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 22
This chapter continues the message to the house of the king of Judah, emphasizing justice and righteousness, and warning of the consequences of disobedience.

2 Kings 24-25
These chapters provide historical context for the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile, events that Jeremiah prophesied.

Isaiah 1
Similar themes of calling the leaders and people of Judah to repentance and justice are found here, highlighting the consistent message of the prophets.