Jeremiah 51:60

Jeremiah had written on a single scroll about all the disaster that would come upon Babylon--all these words that had been written concerning Babylon.

Study Bible

So Jeremiah wrote
The act of writing here is significant. In Hebrew, the word for "wrote" is "כָּתַב" (katav), which implies a deliberate and careful recording. Jeremiah, as a prophet, is fulfilling his divine mandate to document God's revelations. This act of writing underscores the permanence and authority of God's message. It is a reminder of the importance of Scripture as a written testimony of God's will and actions throughout history.

in a single scroll
The use of a "single scroll" emphasizes the unity and completeness of the message. Scrolls were the primary medium for recording texts in ancient times, and a single scroll would have been a significant document, indicating the comprehensive nature of the prophecy. This also suggests the meticulous care with which Jeremiah compiled the prophecies, ensuring that nothing was omitted. The scroll serves as a tangible representation of God's impending judgment, a physical reminder of the seriousness of the message.

all the disaster
The Hebrew word for "disaster" is "רָעָה" (ra'ah), which can also mean calamity or evil. This term conveys the severity of the judgment that is to befall Babylon. It is a divine retribution for their sins and rebellion against God. The use of "all" indicates the totality of the judgment, leaving no aspect of Babylon's society untouched. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the comprehensive nature of His justice.

that would come upon Babylon
Babylon, in this context, represents not just a historical empire but also a symbol of human pride and opposition to God. The phrase "would come upon" indicates the certainty of the prophecy. It is not a matter of if, but when. This reflects the prophetic nature of Jeremiah's message, as he speaks of future events with the assurance that they will come to pass. Babylon's downfall serves as a warning to all nations and individuals who exalt themselves against God.

all these words
The phrase "all these words" highlights the completeness and sufficiency of God's revelation through Jeremiah. Every word is significant and divinely inspired, carrying the weight of God's authority. This underscores the importance of Scripture as a whole, where every word is purposeful and contributes to the overall message of God's plan and purpose for humanity.

that are written concerning Babylon
The specificity of "concerning Babylon" indicates that the prophecy is directed and intentional. Babylon's actions and attitudes have warranted this divine response. Historically, Babylon was a powerful empire known for its wealth and influence, but also for its idolatry and oppression. The prophecy serves as a testament to God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down even the mightiest of empires. It is a call to humility and repentance, recognizing that no power is greater than God's.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies of judgment and restoration. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah and is often called the "weeping prophet" due to his heartfelt laments over the sins of his people and the coming destruction.

2. Babylon
An ancient city and empire known for its wealth, power, and idolatry. In the context of Jeremiah, Babylon is the instrument of God's judgment against Judah but is also subject to God's judgment for its own sins.

3. Scroll
A physical medium for writing in ancient times, often made of papyrus or parchment. Jeremiah's use of a scroll signifies the formal and official nature of the prophecy against Babylon.

4. Disaster
Refers to the impending judgment and destruction that God has decreed against Babylon due to its pride, idolatry, and oppression.

5. Prophecy
The divine message delivered by Jeremiah, which includes both the judgment against Babylon and the eventual restoration of God's people.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over nations and history is evident in His ability to predict and bring about the fall of mighty empires like Babylon.

The Certainty of God's Word
Just as Jeremiah's prophecies were written down and fulfilled, we can trust in the reliability and truth of God's Word today.

Judgment and Justice
God's judgment on Babylon serves as a reminder that He will hold all nations and individuals accountable for their actions.

Hope and Restoration
Even in the midst of judgment, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and hope for His people.

The Role of the Prophet
Jeremiah's faithfulness in delivering God's message, despite opposition, challenges us to be bold in sharing God's truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy against Babylon in Jeremiah 51:60 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecies in historical events, and how does this strengthen our faith in the Bible's reliability?

3. How does the judgment of Babylon serve as a warning for modern societies and individuals?

4. What parallels can we draw between the fall of Babylon and the ultimate defeat of evil as described in Revelation 18?

5. How can we, like Jeremiah, remain faithful in proclaiming God's truth in a world that may be resistant or hostile to it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 13-14
These chapters also contain prophecies against Babylon, highlighting the theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down the proud and powerful.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation echoes the themes found in Jeremiah, symbolizing the ultimate defeat of worldly powers opposed to God.

Daniel 5
The account of the fall of Babylon under King Belshazzar provides a historical fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy.