Jeremiah 50

Jeremiah 50:1

I. Prophecies against Babylon (Chaps. 50, 51)50:1-16 This and the following chapter deal with the judgment of God against Babylon. The prophecies have partial reference to the capture of Babylon by the Medes. But their complete fulfillment is still future. Babylon is mentioned 164 times in Jeremiah, more than in the rest of God’s Word combined. That country will be conquered from the north. Six times, after the prophet speaks of judgment on Babylon, he predicts blessing for Israel and Judah; verses 4-7 form the first. Jews in exile are told to lead the return of captives to their own lands because Babylon will be plundered. There will be elements of several nations in the conquering army. Verse 11 is addressed to the Chaldean army. “Your mother” is the nation itself. See the BBC on Isa_13:14-22 for a discussion of certain problems associated with the destruction of Babylon. 50:17-34 The scattered sheep of Israel will be restored to a fertile land and pardoned. God’s wrath against Babylon is described in verses 21-32, and then His remembrance of Israel and Judah. 50:35-46 Destruction by the sword awaits the people of Babylon. The invader will leave the city desolate, and the news of its fall will be heard among the nations. Verses 41-43, and 44-46, previously applied to Judah and Edom respectively (Jer_6:22-24; Jer_49:19-21), are here applied to Babylon.