Jeremiah 21: God’s Message Delivered to Zedekiah

Introduction: In Jeremiah 21, the prophet Jeremiah delivers a message from God to King Zedekiah of Judah, who is seeking divine intervention against the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. This chapter serves as a warning to the people of Judah that their disobedience and rebellion against God have consequences. It also offers hope for those who choose to submit to God’s will, even in the face of certain defeat. The chapter emphasizes God’s sovereignty and the importance of obedience to His commands.

I. Jeremiah 21:1-2: King Zedekiah’s Inquiry
King Zedekiah sends a delegation to Jeremiah, asking him to inquire of the Lord on their behalf, hoping for a miraculous intervention against the Babylonian army. This section highlights the desperation of the king and his reliance on Jeremiah as a mediator between God and the people.
Cross reference verses:

• 2 Kings 25:1-2: The historical context of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem.
• 1 Samuel 28:6: King Saul seeking guidance from the Lord when facing the Philistine army.
• James 4:2-3: The concept of asking with wrong motives and not receiving from God.

II. Jeremiah 21:3-7: God’s Response to Zedekiah
God responds to Zedekiah’s inquiry through Jeremiah, stating that He will fight against Jerusalem and the king himself. The people’s sins have brought about this judgment, and there is no escape from the consequences of their actions.
Cross reference verses:

• Deuteronomy 28:15-68: The curses for disobedience outlined in the law of Moses.
• Ezekiel 14:21-23: God’s judgment on Jerusalem for idolatry and sin.
• Romans 6:23: The wages of sin is death, emphasizing the severity of disobedience.

III. Jeremiah 21:8-10: The Choice between Life and Death
God presents the people of Judah with a choice: surrender to the Babylonians and live, or resist and die. This section reveals God’s mercy even in judgment, offering a way of escape for those who choose life.
Cross reference verses:

• Deuteronomy 30:15-20: The choice between life and death set before the Israelites.
• Joshua 24:15: The call to choose whom to serve and the consequences of that choice.
• Matthew 7:13-14: The narrow and wide gates, representing the choice between life and death.

IV. Jeremiah 21:11-14: A Warning to the House of David
The chapter concludes with a specific warning to the royal family and officials of Judah. Their responsibility as leaders comes with accountability to God’s justice. They must act righteously or face destruction.
Cross reference verses:

• 2 Samuel 12:7-12: God’s judgment on King David for his sin.
• Proverbs 29:14: The importance of a king judging the poor with fairness.
• James 3:1: The greater judgment for teachers, applicable to leaders who are accountable for their actions.

Conclusion: Jeremiah 21 reminds believers that God is sovereign and just in His dealings with His people. The chapter calls for repentance and obedience, offering a way of escape for those who choose to submit to God’s will. It warns leaders of their accountability before God and the consequences of leading others astray. Ultimately, the message of Jeremiah 21 is one of hope for any person, including you and me, that will turn to God, even in the midst of judgment and calamity.