Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 39 - Verse 16

39:16
Go and speak to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they shall be accomplished in that day before thee.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Jeremiah contains a message from the Lord to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, foretelling the impending judgment upon the city. The Lord declares that His words will bring evil upon the city of Jerusalem, with the calamity to be accomplished on the specific day mentioned. This proclamation serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem, highlighting the consequences of their sin and disobedience. It shows that God's judgment is just and certain, and that His words will not return void. The verse emphasizes the importance of heeding the word of the Lord and turning away from wickedness, lest one face the consequences of divine punishment. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises, whether they be for blessing or for judgment. Through this message, the Lord conveys the seriousness of His judgments and the necessity of repentance and obedience to His commands.

Theological Overview

The verse from Jeremiah 39:16 reveals a message directed at Ebedmelech the Ethiopian. Through this passage, God declares his intention to bring about destruction upon the city, demonstrating his power and sovereignty over all creation. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of God's authority and his ability to fulfill his promises. The phrase "my words" emphasizes the trustworthiness of God's declarations and emphasizes the inevitability of their fulfillment. The use of the terms "LORD of hosts" and "God of Israel" further establishes the divine origin and legitimacy of the message, reinforcing the idea that God's will shall prevail. Furthermore, the reference to the city facing evil rather than good serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of repentance. The context of this verse underscores the importance of heeding God's warnings and recognizing the power of his word to bring about both judgment and mercy.

Previous VerseNext Verse