Jeremiah 46:18
As surely as I live, declares the King, whose name is the LORD of Hosts, there will come one who is like Tabor among the mountains and like Carmel by the sea.
As surely as I live
This phrase is a divine oath, emphasizing the certainty and unchangeable nature of God's promises. In Hebrew, the phrase is "חי־אני" (chai ani), which translates to "I live." It underscores God's eternal existence and His active involvement in the affairs of the world. This assurance is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, providing comfort and confidence to believers that His words are true and will come to pass.

declares the King
The title "King" here refers to God Himself, highlighting His supreme authority and governance over all creation. In the Hebrew context, "מלך" (melech) signifies not just a ruler, but one who is just, wise, and powerful. This declaration from the King of Kings assures us that the message is not from a mere human prophet but from the ultimate ruler of the universe, whose decrees are just and righteous.

whose name is the LORD of Hosts
The phrase "LORD of Hosts" is "יהוה צבאות" (YHWH Tzevaot) in Hebrew, a title that emphasizes God's command over the heavenly armies and His omnipotence. This name reflects His ability to execute His will and protect His people. It reassures believers of God's unmatched power and His role as a divine warrior who fights on behalf of His people, ensuring their ultimate victory and deliverance.

surely one will come
This prophetic statement foretells the arrival of a significant figure or event. The certainty of this coming is emphasized by the word "surely," indicating that it is part of God's divine plan. Historically, this can be seen as a reference to the impending judgment on Egypt, but it also points to the broader theme of God's intervention in history to fulfill His purposes.

who is like Tabor among the mountains
Mount Tabor is a prominent mountain in the Jezreel Valley, known for its distinct shape and visibility. In the Hebrew context, "תבור" (Tabor) symbolizes strength, prominence, and stability. This comparison suggests that the coming one will be as unmistakable and significant as Mount Tabor, standing out among others with authority and power.

like Carmel by the sea
Mount Carmel is a coastal mountain range known for its beauty and fertility. In Hebrew, "כרמל" (Carmel) means "garden" or "vineyard," symbolizing abundance and blessing. The reference to Carmel by the sea highlights the coming one's majesty and the richness of God's provision. It evokes imagery of God's creation and His ability to bring life and prosperity, reinforcing the hope and assurance of His promises.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD of Hosts
This title emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores His authority and ability to fulfill His promises and judgments.

2. Jeremiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the nations, including prophecies of judgment and restoration. He served during a tumultuous period in Judah's history.

3. Tabor
A prominent mountain in northern Israel, known for its height and distinct shape. It symbolizes strength and prominence.

4. Carmel
A coastal mountain range in Israel, known for its beauty and fertility. It represents majesty and stability.

5. Egypt
The nation facing judgment in this chapter. God declares His sovereignty over Egypt and foretells its defeat.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty
The LORD of Hosts is the ultimate authority over all nations. His declarations are certain and will come to pass.

Symbolism of Mountains
Tabor and Carmel symbolize strength and stability. In our lives, we should seek to be rooted in God's strength, standing firm in faith amidst challenges.

Certainty of God's Promises
Just as God declared judgment on Egypt, His promises of both judgment and salvation are sure. We can trust in His word and His timing.

God's Majesty and Power
Recognizing God's majesty should lead us to worship and reverence. He is the King above all kings, deserving of our highest praise.

Call to Repentance
Understanding God's power and judgment should lead us to examine our lives, repent of sin, and align ourselves with His will.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the title "LORD of Hosts" influence your understanding of God's character and His role in the world today?

2. In what ways can the imagery of Tabor and Carmel inspire you to stand firm in your faith?

3. How do the themes of judgment and sovereignty in Jeremiah 46:18 relate to the broader account of God's dealings with nations in the Bible?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's majesty and power in your life. How did it affect your relationship with Him?

5. Considering God's certain promises, how can you apply the lessons from this passage to trust in His plans for your future?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 2:12-17
This passage speaks of the LORD's day of reckoning against all that is proud and lofty, similar to the judgment pronounced in Jeremiah 46:18.

Psalm 24:10
This verse also refers to the LORD as the "King of glory" and "LORD of Hosts," reinforcing His supreme authority.

Amos 4:13
Highlights God's creative power and His ability to bring about His purposes, echoing the themes of divine sovereignty and judgment.
The Oaths of JehovahW. Rees, D. D.Jeremiah 46:18
Judgment Going on from the House of GodS. Conway Jeremiah 46:1-28
People
Amon, Cushites, Ethiopians, Jacob, Jehoiakim, Jeremiah, Josiah, Lud, Ludim, Lydia, Lydians, Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadrezzar, Pharaoh, Pharaohnecho, Phut
Places
Babylon, Carchemish, Carmel, Cush, Egypt, Euphrates River, Gilead, Lud, Memphis, Migdol, Nile River, Put, Tabor, Tahpanhes, Thebes
Topics
Affirmation, Almighty, Armies, Carmel, Declares, Hosts, Looms, Mountains, Says, Surely, Tabor, Truly
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Jeremiah 46:14

     5335   herald

Library
Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7

A Clearing-Up Storm in the Realm
(Revelation, Chapters vi.-viii.) "God Almighty! King of nations! earth Thy footstool, heaven Thy throne! Thine the greatness, power, and glory, Thine the kingdom, Lord, alone! Life and death are in Thy keeping, and Thy will ordaineth all: From the armies of Thy heavens to an unseen insect's fall. "Reigning, guiding, all-commanding, ruling myriad worlds of light; Now exalting, now abasing, none can stay Thy hand of might! Working all things by Thy power, by the counsel of Thy will. Thou art God!
by S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks on the Crowned Christ of Revelation

Jeremiah
The interest of the book of Jeremiah is unique. On the one hand, it is our most reliable and elaborate source for the long period of history which it covers; on the other, it presents us with prophecy in its most intensely human phase, manifesting itself through a strangely attractive personality that was subject to like doubts and passions with ourselves. At his call, in 626 B.C., he was young and inexperienced, i. 6, so that he cannot have been born earlier than 650. The political and religious
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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