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Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 21 - Verse 9

21:9
He that abideth in this city shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence: but he that goeth out, and falleth to the Chaldeans that besiege you, he shall live, and his life shall be unto him for a prey.

Meaning

Jeremiah 21:9 delivers a message of warning and guidance to the people of Judah in the midst of impending destruction. The verse highlights the consequences of staying in the city of Jerusalem, which is under siege by the Chaldeans. Those who choose to remain in the city will face death by sword, famine, and pestilence. However, there is a glimmer of hope offered to those who are willing to surrender and go out to the Chaldeans. By surrendering to the enemy, they will be spared from the harsh fate that awaits those who stay behind. Their lives will be saved, and they will be able to live on, as their surrender will be regarded as a precious possession. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of making difficult decisions in times of crisis, even if they go against one's initial instincts.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Jeremiah can be understood as a warning from God to the inhabitants of a city that is under siege. The theological interpretation of this verse stresses the consequences of disobedience and the importance of following God's instructions. The word "abideth" implies staying in a place of danger despite the impending doom. Those who choose to stay in the city will face death by the sword, famine, and pestilence, which are all forms of divine punishment. On the other hand, those who heed God's warning and surrender to the Chaldeans, the invaders, will be spared and will have their lives preserved as a reward for their obedience. The word study reveals the significance of making the right choice in times of crisis and the importance of heeding God's instructions for safety and protection. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of following God's will.

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