Ezekiel 14

Ezekiel 14:1

Questions of the Officials

When Jeremiah is finished speaking, Zedekiah tells him not to speak to anyone about it (Jeremiah 38:24). If Jeremiah complies, he will not die. The weakling misses the opportunity to be saved and to save the city. The only thing he fears are the people who surround him (Jeremiah 38:25). From that side he foresees problems and he wants to cover himself against them. That he has to deal with the eternal God, he ignores. He knows his officials and knows that they will ask Jeremiah what he has discussed with him. They will threaten Jeremiah with death if he does not tell.

Zedekiah puts into Jeremiah’s mouth what he should answer the officials (Jeremiah 38:26). All he has to say to the officials is that he has asked not to have to go to Jonathan’s house anymore to die there. Jeremiah indeed asked that, though not in this but in their first interview (Jeremiah 37:20). Zedekiah has correctly assessed the action of the officials. They come to Jeremiah and question him about the interview he had with Zedekiah (Jeremiah 38:27). Jeremiah answers with the words the king said to him. With that, the officials are satisfied and they leave Jeremiah alone. Jeremiah spends the rest of his days in the court of the guardhouse until the day that Jerusalem is captured (Jeremiah 38:28).

The sentence, “stayed in the court of the guardhouse until the day that Jerusalem was captured”, shows that he is still alive at that moment, which is evidence of God’s faithfulness to him. God proves that He keeps those who trust in His promise of keeping and are obedient to His Word. Not every believer receives the pledge of being kept from sickness or death. Every believer does receive the promise of the Lord that He will not put to shame their trust in Him.

Ezekiel 14:3

Introduction

This chapter mentions the fall of Jerusalem. This is an event of such great significance that the Holy Spirit mentions it four times in God’s Word (2 Kings 25:1-15; 2 Chronicles 36:17-21; Jeremiah 39:10; Jeremiah 52:4-30).

Jerusalem Is Captured

What has been foretold is happening. The army of the king of Babylon returns from the battle against Egypt and besieges Jerusalem (Jeremiah 39:1; Jeremiah 37:8). This happens in the tenth month of the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign. Over a year and a half later the city falls (Jeremiah 39:2). The date is given to the exact day.

All the officials of the king of Babylon are there, that is, there is a great display of power (Jeremiah 39:3). The starving city is dwarfed by it. The “Rab-mag” is the head of magi. The fact that the officials of Babylon are posted at the Middle Gate probably means that they form a government for the city there and also judge the captives there.

Ezekiel 14:4

Introduction

This chapter mentions the fall of Jerusalem. This is an event of such great significance that the Holy Spirit mentions it four times in God’s Word (2 Kings 25:1-15; 2 Chronicles 36:17-21; Jeremiah 39:10; Jeremiah 52:4-30).

Jerusalem Is Captured

What has been foretold is happening. The army of the king of Babylon returns from the battle against Egypt and besieges Jerusalem (Jeremiah 39:1; Jeremiah 37:8). This happens in the tenth month of the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign. Over a year and a half later the city falls (Jeremiah 39:2). The date is given to the exact day.

All the officials of the king of Babylon are there, that is, there is a great display of power (Jeremiah 39:3). The starving city is dwarfed by it. The “Rab-mag” is the head of magi. The fact that the officials of Babylon are posted at the Middle Gate probably means that they form a government for the city there and also judge the captives there.

Ezekiel 14:5

Introduction

This chapter mentions the fall of Jerusalem. This is an event of such great significance that the Holy Spirit mentions it four times in God’s Word (2 Kings 25:1-15; 2 Chronicles 36:17-21; Jeremiah 39:10; Jeremiah 52:4-30).

Jerusalem Is Captured

What has been foretold is happening. The army of the king of Babylon returns from the battle against Egypt and besieges Jerusalem (Jeremiah 39:1; Jeremiah 37:8). This happens in the tenth month of the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign. Over a year and a half later the city falls (Jeremiah 39:2). The date is given to the exact day.

All the officials of the king of Babylon are there, that is, there is a great display of power (Jeremiah 39:3). The starving city is dwarfed by it. The “Rab-mag” is the head of magi. The fact that the officials of Babylon are posted at the Middle Gate probably means that they form a government for the city there and also judge the captives there.

Ezekiel 14:6

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:7

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:8

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:9

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:10

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:11

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:12

The Fate of Zedekiah and Jerusalem

When Zedekiah sees the enemy appearing in the city, he concludes his evil reign with the shameful and cowardly act of attempting to flee (Jeremiah 39:4). Concerned for his own life, he abandons his people whom he has plunged into misery by his futile opposition to an overpowering enemy. Far worse, in doing so, he again demonstrates his disobedience to God’s Word that was so clearly preached to him by Jeremiah.

He ventures to break out together with the all the remaining men of war. They do it at night in a place that seems to be hidden from the eye of the enemy. He leaves “toward the Arabah”, i.e. the Jordan valley. The escape attempt proves to be in vain. It is also folly to run away from the clear statements of the LORD and the means He uses. He is overtaken in the plains of Jericho and seized there (Jeremiah 39:5). It is rather tragic that the last king of the people suffers this fate at the very place where Joshua and the people won their first victory in the land (Joshua 6:2; 20-21).

Zedekiah is brought up to the king of Babylon. There, as has been foretold, he stands face to face with the mighty Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 32:3-4), the man who made him king (2 Kings 24:17). He made a covenant with him and broke it (Ezekiel 17:18). Now he reaps what he sowed in his folly (2 Chronicles 36:12-13). The king of Babylon passes sentence on him. In a deeper sense, this is the sentence of the LORD.

His sons are slain before his eyes (Jeremiah 39:6). That must have been a terrible sight. All the nobles of Judah, who supported Zedekiah in his wicked policy, are also slain. Then Zedekiah’s eyes are put out and he is blind (Jeremiah 39:7). He has always refused the light of God’s Word and lived in spiritual darkness. Now he must also lack the light of his eyes for the rest of his life and literally live in darkness.

The last thing he saw in the light of the world was the slaughter of his sons. That picture will always stay with him and torment him. Then, blind and bound with fetters of bronze, he is taken to Babylon. Thus also the word is fulfilled that he will be brought to Babylon, but will not see it (Ezekiel 12:13).

1. Zedekiah, the last king, 2. Samson, the last judge and 3. Laodicea, the last church, all ended up blind. They are overcome by the world because of their unfaithfulness to God and their disobedience to His Word. As a result, they lost sight of the things of God.

The Chaldeans burn the king’s house and the houses of the people (Jeremiah 39:8). They also break down the walls of Jerusalem. What is left of the people, both in the city and outside it, is taken into exile to Babylon, as are the deserters (Jeremiah 39:9). The poorest of the land, those who have no possessions – perhaps the Rechabites? (Jeremiah 35:1-11) – may continue to live in the land (Jeremiah 39:10). They pose no threat and can tend the vineyards and fields they are given at their disposal.

Ezekiel 14:13

The Deliverance of Jeremiah

Nebuchadnezzar will certainly have been informed of Jeremiah’s preaching to the people to surrender to him. This is the reason why he gives orders concerning Jeremiah (Jeremiah 39:11). He commands that Jeremiah should be taken into protection and that no harm should be done to him (Jeremiah 39:12). On the contrary, he is to be served at his beck and call when he says something. Nebuchadnezzar commands his entire staff that is in Jerusalem to do this (Jeremiah 39:13).

They do as he commands and send messengers to Jeremiah to release him from his captivity (Jeremiah 39:14). Then they turn him over to the care of Gedaliah, who is to take him home. Jeremiah is free again. He reaps the truth of the LORD’s words that he spoke to all the people.

Ezekiel 14:14

The Deliverance of Jeremiah

Nebuchadnezzar will certainly have been informed of Jeremiah’s preaching to the people to surrender to him. This is the reason why he gives orders concerning Jeremiah (Jeremiah 39:11). He commands that Jeremiah should be taken into protection and that no harm should be done to him (Jeremiah 39:12). On the contrary, he is to be served at his beck and call when he says something. Nebuchadnezzar commands his entire staff that is in Jerusalem to do this (Jeremiah 39:13).

They do as he commands and send messengers to Jeremiah to release him from his captivity (Jeremiah 39:14). Then they turn him over to the care of Gedaliah, who is to take him home. Jeremiah is free again. He reaps the truth of the LORD’s words that he spoke to all the people.

Ezekiel 14:15

The Deliverance of Jeremiah

Nebuchadnezzar will certainly have been informed of Jeremiah’s preaching to the people to surrender to him. This is the reason why he gives orders concerning Jeremiah (Jeremiah 39:11). He commands that Jeremiah should be taken into protection and that no harm should be done to him (Jeremiah 39:12). On the contrary, he is to be served at his beck and call when he says something. Nebuchadnezzar commands his entire staff that is in Jerusalem to do this (Jeremiah 39:13).

They do as he commands and send messengers to Jeremiah to release him from his captivity (Jeremiah 39:14). Then they turn him over to the care of Gedaliah, who is to take him home. Jeremiah is free again. He reaps the truth of the LORD’s words that he spoke to all the people.

Ezekiel 14:16

The Deliverance of Jeremiah

Nebuchadnezzar will certainly have been informed of Jeremiah’s preaching to the people to surrender to him. This is the reason why he gives orders concerning Jeremiah (Jeremiah 39:11). He commands that Jeremiah should be taken into protection and that no harm should be done to him (Jeremiah 39:12). On the contrary, he is to be served at his beck and call when he says something. Nebuchadnezzar commands his entire staff that is in Jerusalem to do this (Jeremiah 39:13).

They do as he commands and send messengers to Jeremiah to release him from his captivity (Jeremiah 39:14). Then they turn him over to the care of Gedaliah, who is to take him home. Jeremiah is free again. He reaps the truth of the LORD’s words that he spoke to all the people.

Ezekiel 14:17

Promise for Ebed-melech

The LORD forgets nothing of what anyone has done for Him or His own. Before the city has fallen and Jeremiah is still a prisoner, the word of the LORD has come to him with a message for Ebed-melech (Jeremiah 39:15). He is to bring Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, the word of the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel (Jeremiah 39:16).

First the LORD points out that He will bring His words of calamity upon the city. Ebed-melech will see that for himself. But the LORD will deliver him (Jeremiah 39:17). He does fear the Chaldeans, for he has been a servant of Zedekiah. Perhaps he is also afraid of the men who wanted to kill Jeremiah because he helped Jeremiah out of the cistern into which they had thrown him. The man who did such a brave act of faith, they will want to make him pay for that.

But he has served the LORD, the King of kings, and He promises that He “will certainly rescue” him (Jeremiah 39:18) from all dangers. The sword will not strike him; he will remain alive. The reason is: “Because you have trusted in Me.” God honors those who honor Him. Let us too take the risks of faith in the way of obedience and thus adorn the gospel.

Ezekiel 14:18

Promise for Ebed-melech

The LORD forgets nothing of what anyone has done for Him or His own. Before the city has fallen and Jeremiah is still a prisoner, the word of the LORD has come to him with a message for Ebed-melech (Jeremiah 39:15). He is to bring Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, the word of the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel (Jeremiah 39:16).

First the LORD points out that He will bring His words of calamity upon the city. Ebed-melech will see that for himself. But the LORD will deliver him (Jeremiah 39:17). He does fear the Chaldeans, for he has been a servant of Zedekiah. Perhaps he is also afraid of the men who wanted to kill Jeremiah because he helped Jeremiah out of the cistern into which they had thrown him. The man who did such a brave act of faith, they will want to make him pay for that.

But he has served the LORD, the King of kings, and He promises that He “will certainly rescue” him (Jeremiah 39:18) from all dangers. The sword will not strike him; he will remain alive. The reason is: “Because you have trusted in Me.” God honors those who honor Him. Let us too take the risks of faith in the way of obedience and thus adorn the gospel.

Ezekiel 14:19

Promise for Ebed-melech

The LORD forgets nothing of what anyone has done for Him or His own. Before the city has fallen and Jeremiah is still a prisoner, the word of the LORD has come to him with a message for Ebed-melech (Jeremiah 39:15). He is to bring Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, the word of the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel (Jeremiah 39:16).

First the LORD points out that He will bring His words of calamity upon the city. Ebed-melech will see that for himself. But the LORD will deliver him (Jeremiah 39:17). He does fear the Chaldeans, for he has been a servant of Zedekiah. Perhaps he is also afraid of the men who wanted to kill Jeremiah because he helped Jeremiah out of the cistern into which they had thrown him. The man who did such a brave act of faith, they will want to make him pay for that.

But he has served the LORD, the King of kings, and He promises that He “will certainly rescue” him (Jeremiah 39:18) from all dangers. The sword will not strike him; he will remain alive. The reason is: “Because you have trusted in Me.” God honors those who honor Him. Let us too take the risks of faith in the way of obedience and thus adorn the gospel.

Ezekiel 14:20

Promise for Ebed-melech

The LORD forgets nothing of what anyone has done for Him or His own. Before the city has fallen and Jeremiah is still a prisoner, the word of the LORD has come to him with a message for Ebed-melech (Jeremiah 39:15). He is to bring Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, the word of the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel (Jeremiah 39:16).

First the LORD points out that He will bring His words of calamity upon the city. Ebed-melech will see that for himself. But the LORD will deliver him (Jeremiah 39:17). He does fear the Chaldeans, for he has been a servant of Zedekiah. Perhaps he is also afraid of the men who wanted to kill Jeremiah because he helped Jeremiah out of the cistern into which they had thrown him. The man who did such a brave act of faith, they will want to make him pay for that.

But he has served the LORD, the King of kings, and He promises that He “will certainly rescue” him (Jeremiah 39:18) from all dangers. The sword will not strike him; he will remain alive. The reason is: “Because you have trusted in Me.” God honors those who honor Him. Let us too take the risks of faith in the way of obedience and thus adorn the gospel.

Ezekiel 14:22

Introduction

Jeremiah 40-44 contain prophecies and an account of events after the fall of Jerusalem. Jeremiah 40-42 deal with prophecies and events in Judah, Jeremiah 43-44 deal with those in Egypt.

The Release of Jeremiah

Now follows the long history of Jeremiah in the midst of those left behind in Judah. It seems that Jeremiah, despite Nebuchadnezzar’s command (Jeremiah 39:11-14), was nevertheless captured and handcuffed with the exiles on his way to Babylon (Jeremiah 40:1). This will be so because the soldiers did not recognize him. This will have been another tremendous trial for Jeremiah. When the error is discovered, he is released again. The captain of the bodyguard has Jeremiah brought to him (Jeremiah 40:2). He speaks of “the LORD your God”. He knows himself to be a tool in His hand.

He, as the king’s confidant, lets Jeremiah know that it is known to him that he has preached about the evil that the LORD his God has pronounced on Jerusalem. He will have heard this from those who had defected to the Babylonians or who had been taken away by them before. He knows the reason, which is that they have sinned against the LORD and have not listened to His voice (Jeremiah 40:3). Therefore, what He has spoken has been done “to you”, that is, to Jeremiah. Jeremiah suffers with all the people. From his mouth we do not hear a word about the evil that has been done to him.

Jeremiah gets his freedom back (Jeremiah 40:4). He is allowed to decide for himself what to do. The captain holds out to him the choice of going with him to Babylon. If he chooses to do so, the captain guarantees his safety. An attractive offer for the man so hated by his people because of his preaching and the fulfillment of his words. If he prefers to stay in Israel, that’s fine too. He may go wherever he wishes. He is dependent on the LORD for making that choice. Until it is clear to Jeremiah, he lives in Jerusalem.

The captain advises Jeremiah to get in touch with Gedaliah as long as Jeremiah – literally he, by whom is probably meant Nebuchadnezzar – does not return (Jeremiah 40:5). Gedaliah, an official of Judah, has been appointed by Nebuchadnezzar to be the leader of the people. If Jeremiah wants to go somewhere else, he can. He has complete freedom of movement. Then the captain gives him food for the road and a gift – as compensation for the injustice done to him? – and lets him go. We don’t read anything about Jeremiah’s considerations in the choice he makes, but he goes to Gedaliah, with whom he stays as one of those left in the land (Jeremiah 40:6).

Ezekiel 14:23

Introduction

Jeremiah 40-44 contain prophecies and an account of events after the fall of Jerusalem. Jeremiah 40-42 deal with prophecies and events in Judah, Jeremiah 43-44 deal with those in Egypt.

The Release of Jeremiah

Now follows the long history of Jeremiah in the midst of those left behind in Judah. It seems that Jeremiah, despite Nebuchadnezzar’s command (Jeremiah 39:11-14), was nevertheless captured and handcuffed with the exiles on his way to Babylon (Jeremiah 40:1). This will be so because the soldiers did not recognize him. This will have been another tremendous trial for Jeremiah. When the error is discovered, he is released again. The captain of the bodyguard has Jeremiah brought to him (Jeremiah 40:2). He speaks of “the LORD your God”. He knows himself to be a tool in His hand.

He, as the king’s confidant, lets Jeremiah know that it is known to him that he has preached about the evil that the LORD his God has pronounced on Jerusalem. He will have heard this from those who had defected to the Babylonians or who had been taken away by them before. He knows the reason, which is that they have sinned against the LORD and have not listened to His voice (Jeremiah 40:3). Therefore, what He has spoken has been done “to you”, that is, to Jeremiah. Jeremiah suffers with all the people. From his mouth we do not hear a word about the evil that has been done to him.

Jeremiah gets his freedom back (Jeremiah 40:4). He is allowed to decide for himself what to do. The captain holds out to him the choice of going with him to Babylon. If he chooses to do so, the captain guarantees his safety. An attractive offer for the man so hated by his people because of his preaching and the fulfillment of his words. If he prefers to stay in Israel, that’s fine too. He may go wherever he wishes. He is dependent on the LORD for making that choice. Until it is clear to Jeremiah, he lives in Jerusalem.

The captain advises Jeremiah to get in touch with Gedaliah as long as Jeremiah – literally he, by whom is probably meant Nebuchadnezzar – does not return (Jeremiah 40:5). Gedaliah, an official of Judah, has been appointed by Nebuchadnezzar to be the leader of the people. If Jeremiah wants to go somewhere else, he can. He has complete freedom of movement. Then the captain gives him food for the road and a gift – as compensation for the injustice done to him? – and lets him go. We don’t read anything about Jeremiah’s considerations in the choice he makes, but he goes to Gedaliah, with whom he stays as one of those left in the land (Jeremiah 40:6).