Jeremiah 48
BSB1 Concerning Moab, this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “Woe to Nebo, for it will be devastated. Kiriathaim will be captured and disgraced; the fortress will be shattered and dismantled. 2 There is no longer praise for Moab; in Heshbon they devise evil against her: ‘Come, let us cut her off from nationhood.’ You too, O people of Madmen, will be silenced; the sword will pursue you. 3 A voice cries out from Horonaim: ‘Devastation and great destruction!’ 4 Moab will be shattered; her little ones will cry out. 5 For on the ascent to Luhith they weep bitterly as they go, and on the descent to Horonaim cries of distress resound over the destruction: 6 ‘Flee! Run for your lives! Become like a juniper in the desert. ‘ 7 Because you trust in your works and treasures, you too will be captured, and Chemosh will go into exile with his priests and officials. 8 The destroyer will move against every city, and not one town will escape. The valley will also be ruined, and the high plain will be destroyed, as the LORD has said. 9 Put salt on Moab, for she will be laid waste; her cities will become desolate, with no one to dwell in them. 10 Cursed is the one who is remiss in doing the work of the LORD, and cursed is he who withholds his sword from bloodshed. 11 Moab has been at ease from youth, settled like wine on its dregs; he has not been poured from vessel to vessel or gone into exile. So his flavor has remained the same, and his aroma is unchanged. 12 Therefore behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will send to him wanderers, who will pour him out. They will empty his vessels and shatter his jars. 13 Then Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, just as the house of Israel was ashamed when they trusted in Bethel. 14 How can you say, ‘We are warriors, mighty men ready for battle’? 15 Moab has been destroyed and its towns have been invaded; the best of its young men have gone down in the slaughter, declares the King, whose name is the LORD of Hosts. 16 Moab’s calamity is at hand, and his affliction is rushing swiftly. 17 Mourn for him, all you who surround him, everyone who knows his name; tell how the mighty scepter is shattered— the glorious staff! 18 Come down from your glory; sit on parched ground, O daughter dwelling in Dibon, for the destroyer of Moab has come against you; he has destroyed your fortresses. 19 Stand by the road and watch, O dweller of Aroer! Ask the man fleeing or the woman escaping, ‘What has happened?’ 20 Moab is put to shame, for it has been shattered. Wail and cry out! Declare by the Arnon that Moab is destroyed. 21 Judgment has come upon the high plain— upon Holon, Jahzah, and Mephaath, 22 upon Dibon, Nebo, and Beth-diblathaim, 23 upon Kiriathaim, Beth-gamul, and Beth-meon, 24 upon Kerioth, Bozrah, and all the towns of Moab, those far and near. 25 The horn of Moab has been cut off, and his arm is broken,” declares the LORD. 26 “Make him drunk, because he has magnified himself against the LORD; so Moab will wallow in his own vomit, and he will also become a laughingstock. 27 Was not Israel your object of ridicule? Was he ever found among thieves? For whenever you speak of him you shake your head. 28 Abandon the towns and settle among the rocks, O dwellers of Moab! Be like a dove that nests at the mouth of a cave. 29 We have heard of Moab’s pomposity, his exceeding pride and conceit, his proud arrogance and haughtiness of heart. 30 I know his insolence,” declares the LORD, “but it is futile. His boasting is as empty as his deeds. 31 Therefore I will wail for Moab; I will cry out for all of Moab; I will moan for the men of Kir-heres. 32 I will weep for you, O vine of Sibmah, more than I weep for Jazer. Your tendrils have extended to the sea; they reach even to Jazer. The destroyer has descended on your summer fruit and grape harvest. 33 Joy and gladness are removed from the orchard and from the fields of Moab. I have stopped the flow of wine from the presses; no one treads them with shouts of joy; their shouts are not for joy. 34 There is a cry from Heshbon to Elealeh; they raise their voices to Jahaz, from Zoar to Horonaim and Eglath-shelishiyah; for even the waters of Nimrim have dried up. 35 In Moab, declares the LORD, I will bring an end to those who make offerings on the high places and burn incense to their gods. 36 Therefore My heart laments like a flute for Moab; it laments like a flute for the men of Kir-heres, because the wealth they acquired has perished. 37 For every head is shaved and every beard is clipped; on every hand is a gash, and around every waist is sackcloth. 38 On all the rooftops of Moab and in the public squares, everyone is mourning; for I have shattered Moab like an unwanted jar,” declares the LORD. 39 “How shattered it is! How they wail! How Moab has turned his back in shame! Moab has become an object of ridicule and horror to all those around him." 40 For this is what the LORD says: “Behold, an eagle swoops down and spreads his wings against Moab. 41 Kirioth has been taken, and the strongholds seized. In that day the heart of Moab’s warriors will be like the heart of a woman in labor. 42 Moab will be destroyed as a nation because he vaunted himself against the LORD. 43 Terror and pit and snare await you, O dweller of Moab,” declares the LORD. 44 “Whoever flees the panic will fall into the pit, and whoever climbs from the pit will be caught in the snare. For I will bring upon Moab the year of their punishment,” declares the LORD. 45 “Those who flee will stand helpless in Heshbon’s shadow, because fire has gone forth from Heshbon and a flame from within Sihon. It devours the foreheads of Moab and the skulls of the sons of tumult. 46 Woe to you, O Moab! The people of Chemosh have perished; for your sons have been taken into exile and your daughters have gone into captivity. 47 Yet in the latter days I will restore Moab from captivity, " declares the LORD. Here ends the judgment on Moab.
Study Notes — Jeremiah 48
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Themes from Jeremiah 48
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Jeremiah 48
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with a prophecy of judgment against Moab, declaring that the nation will be destroyed and its people will be taken into exile. The reason for this judgment is Moab's idolatry and pride, as well as its opposition to God's people. The prophecy is fulfilled in Jeremiah 48:1-47, where the destruction of Moab's cities and the slaughter of its people are described. The chapter also contains a message of hope, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days. Key verses include Jeremiah 48:11, which describes Moab's complacency and lack of repentance, and Jeremiah 48:42, which declares that Moab will be destroyed because of its pride.
Context for the Chapter
Jeremiah 48 is part of a larger section of prophecies against the nations in Jeremiah 46-51. The chapter is a prophecy of judgment against Moab, which was a neighboring nation of Judah. The prophecy was given during the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah, and it is a reminder that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever. The chapter also contains a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days.
Heart Application
The chapter reminds us of the importance of repentance and turning to God. As we read about Moab's destruction, we are reminded that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever. We are called to examine our own hearts and lives, and to turn to God in repentance and faith. May we learn from Moab's mistakes and seek to live a life of obedience and faithfulness to God.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Jeremiah 48 is a prophecy of judgment against the nation of Moab. The chapter describes Moab's destruction and the reasons behind it, which include idolatry, pride, and opposition to God's people. However, the chapter also contains a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of repentance and turning to God.
Voices from the Church
“The judgments of God are always righteous, and they are always a call to repentance. May we heed the warning of Jeremiah 48 and turn to God in faith and obedience.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The destruction of Moab is a reminder that God is a God of justice and righteousness. May we tremble at his word and seek to live a life of holiness and obedience.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Prophecy (Jeremiah 48:1-10) — The chapter begins with a prophecy of judgment against Moab, declaring that the nation will be destroyed and its people will be taken into exile.
- The Reason for Moab's Destruction (Jeremiah 48:11-25) — The reason for Moab's destruction is its idolatry and pride, as well as its opposition to God's people.
- The Destruction of Moab's Cities (Jeremiah 48:26-34) — The prophecy is fulfilled in Jeremiah 48:26-34, where the destruction of Moab's cities and the slaughter of its people are described.
- The Sorrow of Moab (Jeremiah 48:35-39) — The chapter also describes the sorrow and mourning of Moab, as the nation is destroyed and its people are taken into exile.
- The Restoration of Moab (Jeremiah 48:40-47) — The chapter ends with a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and control over all nations, including Moab. As Jeremiah 48:1-10 declare, God is the one who will bring judgment upon Moab and destroy the nation.
- The Importance of Repentance
- The chapter stresses the importance of repentance, as Jeremiah 48:30 declares that Moab's destruction is a result of its refusal to repent and turn to God.
- The Justice of God
- The chapter reminds us of God's justice and righteousness, as he pours out his wrath upon Moab for its sin and rebellion.
- The Restoration of All Things
- The chapter also contains a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days.
Themes from Jeremiah 48
- The Judgment of God — The chapter emphasizes God's righteous judgment, as he pours out his wrath upon Moab for its sin and rebellion.
- The Importance of Repentance — The chapter stresses the importance of repentance, as Jeremiah 48:30 declares that Moab's destruction is a result of its refusal to repent and turn to God.
- The Restoration of All Things — The chapter also contains a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and control over all nations, including Moab. As Jeremiah 48:1-10 declare, God is the one who will bring judgment upon Moab and destroy the nation.
- The Justice of God — The chapter reminds us of God's justice and righteousness, as he pours out his wrath upon Moab for its sin and rebellion.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the main theme of Jeremiah 48, and how does it relate to the rest of the book of Jeremiah?
- What are some reasons why Moab is being judged in Jeremiah 48, and how do these reasons relate to our own lives and experiences?
- How does the prophecy of Moab's restoration in Jeremiah 48:47 relate to the larger biblical theme of redemption and restoration?
- What are some practical lessons that we can learn from Jeremiah 48, and how can we apply them to our own lives and relationships?
- How does the chapter remind us of the importance of repentance and turning to God, and what are some ways that we can cultivate a spirit of repentance in our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Prophecy (Jeremiah 48:1-10)
| Jeremiah 48:1 | The chapter begins with a prophecy of judgment against Moab, declaring that the nation will be destroyed and its people will be taken into exile. |
| Jeremiah 48:2 | The reason for Moab's destruction is its idolatry and pride, as well as its opposition to God's people. |
2. The Reason for Moab's Destruction (Jeremiah 48:11-25)
| Jeremiah 48:11 | The reason for Moab's destruction is its idolatry and pride, as well as its opposition to God's people. |
| Jeremiah 48:12 | Moab's complacency and lack of repentance are highlighted in the chapter, as Jeremiah 48:12 describes the nation's false sense of security. |
3. The Destruction of Moab's Cities (Jeremiah 48:26-34)
| Jeremiah 48:26 | The prophecy is fulfilled in Jeremiah 48:26-34, where the destruction of Moab's cities and the slaughter of its people are described. |
| Jeremiah 48:27 | The chapter also describes the sorrow and mourning of Moab, as the nation is destroyed and its people are taken into exile. |
4. The Sorrow of Moab (Jeremiah 48:35-39)
| Jeremiah 48:35 | The chapter also describes the sorrow and mourning of Moab, as the nation is destroyed and its people are taken into exile. |
| Jeremiah 48:36 | The prophecy of Moab's destruction is a reminder that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever. |
5. The Restoration of Moab (Jeremiah 48:40-47)
| Jeremiah 48:40 | The chapter ends with a message of hope and restoration, as Jeremiah 48:47 declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days. |
| Jeremiah 48:41 | The prophecy of Moab's restoration is a reminder that God is a God of mercy and redemption, who will restore all things in the end. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical context of Jeremiah 48?
Jeremiah 48 is part of a larger section of prophecies against the nations in Jeremiah 46-51. The chapter is a prophecy of judgment against Moab, which was a neighboring nation of Judah. The prophecy was given during the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah, and it is a reminder that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever.
What are some key themes in Jeremiah 48?
Some key themes in Jeremiah 48 include the judgment of God, the importance of repentance, the restoration of all things, the sovereignty of God, and the justice of God.
How does Jeremiah 48 relate to the rest of the book of Jeremiah?
Jeremiah 48 is part of a larger section of prophecies against the nations in Jeremiah 46-51. The chapter is a reminder that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever, and it emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning to God.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jeremiah 48:1 → Isaiah 15:1 | The prophecy of Moab's destruction in Jeremiah 48:1 is similar to the prophecy in Isaiah 15:1, which also declares that Moab will be destroyed. |
| 2 | Jeremiah 48:11 → Amos 6:1 | The description of Moab's complacency and lack of repentance in Jeremiah 48:11 is similar to the description of Israel's complacency and lack of repentance in Amos 6:1. |
| 3 | Jeremiah 48:26 → Ezekiel 25:8-11 | The prophecy of Moab's destruction in Jeremiah 48:26 is similar to the prophecy in Ezekiel 25:8-11, which also declares that Moab will be destroyed. |
| 4 | Jeremiah 48:30 → Zephaniah 2:8-10 | The description of Moab's pride and arrogance in Jeremiah 48:30 is similar to the description of Moab's pride and arrogance in Zephaniah 2:8-10. |
| 5 | Jeremiah 48:40 → Isaiah 11:11-16 | The prophecy of Moab's restoration in Jeremiah 48:40 is similar to the prophecy in Isaiah 11:11-16, which also declares that Moab will be restored in the latter days. |
| 6 | Jeremiah 48:41 → Micah 7:18-20 | The description of God's mercy and redemption in Jeremiah 48:41 is similar to the description of God's mercy and redemption in Micah 7:18-20. |
| 7 | Jeremiah 48:42 → Matthew 24:30 | The prophecy of Moab's destruction in Jeremiah 48:42 is similar to the prophecy of Jesus' return in Matthew 24:30, which also declares that the nations will be judged and destroyed. |
| 8 | Jeremiah 48:47 → Revelation 21:1-4 | The prophecy of Moab's restoration in Jeremiah 48:47 is similar to the prophecy of the new heaven and the new earth in Revelation 21:1-4, which also declares that God will restore all things in the end. |
Sermons on Jeremiah 48
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Moab Exposed by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the arrival of the tilters and the impending arrival of Moab. He warns Tobiah to leave because his time is up and advises those who are not h |
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Fulfilling Your Calling by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being lazy or slack in our work, especially when it comes to God's work. He references Matthew 28:19, where Jesus comm |
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When God Turns Your World Upside-Down by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of growth and not remaining stagnant in our spiritual journey. He references the apostle Paul's mindset of forgetting the past |
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Altar Tent and Well by David Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenge of maintaining faith and consecration in the Christian life. He uses the analogy of a marriage proposal to illustrate the initia |
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The Lord's Chastening by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of submitting to God's will and recognizing Him as our heavenly Father. He uses the analogy of someone being beaten or scolded |
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Purified Through Trials by Angel Castillo | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a holy life that pleases God. He warns against being influenced by the world and its desires, as it is contrary to |
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Studies in Romans-08 by William MacDonald | The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of humility and unity within the body of Christ. It encourages believers to recognize their unique roles and functions within the ch |
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On Eagles' Wings Pt 120 by Don Courville | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of words and their impact on our lives. He explains that our words can either justify or condemn us. He also highlights God's grac |
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Gods Process for Building Sons by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes God's process for building sons, highlighting the importance of remaining vigilant and not becoming complacent amidst life's challenges. He draws parallel |
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Making Good Wine - Interpreting Your Past Present and Future by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the transformative power of God's grace and the importance of recognizing our brokenness in order to fully depend on Him. He illustrates how our past, pre |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Jeremiah 48
Matthew Henry's commentary on Jeremiah 48 emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning to God. Henry notes that Moab's destruction is a result of its refusal to repent and turn to God, and he stresses the importance of seeking God's mercy and redemption. Henry also highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and control over all nations, including Moab. He notes that God is a righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and rebellion forever, and he emphasizes the importance of living a life of obedience and faithfulness to God. Overall, Henry's commentary on Jeremiah 48 is a call to repentance and faith, and it reminds us of the importance of seeking God's mercy and redemption in our own lives. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Moab's Complacency
Moab's complacency and lack of repentance are highlighted in the chapter, as Jeremiah 48:11 describes the nation's false sense of security.
God's Righteous Judgment
The chapter emphasizes God's righteous judgment, as he pours out his wrath upon Moab for its sin and rebellion.
The Importance of Repentance
The chapter stresses the importance of repentance, as Jeremiah 48:30 declares that Moab's destruction is a result of its refusal to repent and turn to God.