Exodus 21:2
Provides the law regarding the release of Hebrew slaves, which the people of Judah initially sought to obey.

Galatians 5:1
Emphasizes the freedom we have in Christ and the call to stand firm in that freedom.

James 5:12
Encourages believers to let their yes be yes and their no be no, highlighting the importance of keeping our word.Historical Context
Jeremiah 34 takes place during the reign of King Zedekiah, as the Babylonian army besieges Jerusalem. This context highlights the urgency and gravity of the people's covenant with God.

The Covenant of Freedom
In verses 8-10, King Zedekiah and the people of Jerusalem make a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves, in accordance with God's law (Exodus 21:2). This act was meant to be a demonstration of repentance and obedience.

Breaking the Covenant
Despite their initial compliance, the people soon reneged on their promise, re-enslaving those they had set free (Jeremiah 34:11). This breach of covenant reveals the fickleness of their commitment.

God's Response
God, through Jeremiah, condemns their actions and declares the consequences of their disobedience (Jeremiah 34:17-22). The broken covenant leads to judgment and destruction, emphasizing the seriousness of their sin.

The Nature of True Freedom
The chapter underscores that true freedom comes from obedience to God's commands, not merely external compliance.Evaluate Your Commitments
Reflect on the promises you have made to God. Are you faithfully keeping them, or have you allowed complacency to set in?

The Importance of Integrity
Uphold your commitments with integrity, understanding that God values our faithfulness and obedience.

Repentance and Restoration
If you have broken a promise to God, seek His forgiveness and strive to restore your relationship with Him through genuine repentance.

Value of Freedom in Christ
Recognize that true freedom is found in living according to God's will, not in following our own desires.1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks to Jeremiah and gives him messages for King Zedekiah and the people of Judah. The name "Yahweh" is derived from the Hebrew root "היה" (hayah), meaning "to be," emphasizing God's eternal existence and faithfulness.

2. Jeremiah
The prophet who receives and delivers God's messages. He is a central figure in the book, known for his role as a spokesperson for God during a time of impending judgment on Judah.

3. Zedekiah
The king of Judah during the time of the Babylonian siege. He is addressed directly by God through Jeremiah, with a message concerning the fate of Jerusalem and his own personal future.

4. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, referred to as the one who is besieging Jerusalem. His name in Hebrew is נְבוּכַדְנֶאצַּר (Nebuchadnezzar), and he is depicted as an instrument of God's judgment against Judah.

5. The People of Judah
The inhabitants of Judah who are involved in making and breaking a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves, which is a central issue in this chapter.1. Jerusalem
Jerusalem is the central city in the narrative, where King Zedekiah and the people of Judah are located. It is the capital of the Kingdom of Judah and holds significant religious and political importance. In the Hebrew text, Jerusalem is written as יְרוּשָׁלַיִם (Yerushalayim).

2. Babylon
Babylon is the empire led by King Nebuchadnezzar, which is besieging Jerusalem. It represents the instrument of God's judgment against Judah. The Hebrew term for Babylon is בָּבֶל (Bavel).

3. Lachish
Lachish is one of the last fortified cities of Judah still holding out against the Babylonian siege. It is mentioned as a significant military site. In Hebrew, Lachish is written as לָכִישׁ (Lakhish).

4. Azekah
Azekah is another fortified city of Judah mentioned alongside Lachish as still standing against the Babylonians. It is part of the defense line protecting Jerusalem. The Hebrew name for Azekah is עֲזֵקָה (Azekah).1. The Word of the LORD to Jeremiah
The chapter begins with the word of the LORD coming to Jeremiah during the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah. The LORD instructs Jeremiah to deliver a message to Zedekiah regarding the fate of Jerusalem and the king himself (Jeremiah 34:1-2).

2. Prophecy of Jerusalem's Fall
The LORD declares that He will give Jerusalem into the hands of the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar, who will capture the city and set it on fire (Jeremiah 34:2).

3. Zedekiah's Fate
The LORD tells Zedekiah that he will not escape but will be captured and brought before Nebuchadnezzar. However, he will not die by the sword but will die in peace, and people will lament for him, saying, "Alas, O master!" (Jeremiah 34:3-5).

4. Covenant of Freedom for Hebrew Slaves
King Zedekiah and the people of Jerusalem had made a covenant to proclaim liberty to their Hebrew slaves, allowing them to go free, in accordance with the law given in Deuteronomy 15:12 (Jeremiah 34:8-9).

5. Violation of the Covenant
After initially releasing their slaves, the people of Jerusalem reneged on their covenant and forced the freed individuals back into slavery, thus breaking the covenant they had made before God (Jeremiah 34:10-11).

6. The LORD's Rebuke
The LORD rebukes the people for their disobedience, reminding them of the covenant He made with their ancestors when He brought them out of Egypt, commanding them to release their Hebrew slaves after six years of service (Jeremiah 34:12-14).

7. Judgment Pronounced
Because the people violated the covenant and did not proclaim liberty to their fellow Hebrews, the LORD declares that He will proclaim "liberty" for them to the sword, pestilence, and famine, and make them a horror to all the kingdoms of the earth (Jeremiah 34:17).

8. The Fate of the Covenant-Breakers
The LORD states that those who passed between the pieces of the calf to confirm the covenant, including the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, will be handed over to their enemies, and their dead bodies will become food for the birds and wild animals (Jeremiah 34:18-20).

9. The Siege of Jerusalem
The LORD reiterates that He will deliver Zedekiah and the people of Jerusalem into the hands of the Babylonians, who will capture the city and burn it down (Jeremiah 34:21-22).

1. The Importance of Keeping Promises
In Jeremiah 34, we see the people of Judah making a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves, only to break their promise later. This teaches us the importance of keeping our word. As it is written, "Let your 'Yes' be yes, and your 'No,' no" (Matthew 5:37). Our integrity reflects our faith, and honoring our commitments is a testament to our character and trust in God.

2. The Consequences of Disobedience
The chapter highlights the severe consequences of disobedience to God’s commands. The people of Judah faced dire repercussions for reneging on their covenant. This reminds us that "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23), but through obedience, we align ourselves with God’s will and receive His blessings.

3. God’s Justice is Unwavering
Jeremiah 34 illustrates that God’s justice is consistent and unwavering. When the people broke their covenant, God declared, "I will give them into the hand of their enemies" (Jeremiah 34:20). This serves as a reminder that God’s justice is perfect, and He holds us accountable for our actions.

4. The Power of Repentance
While the chapter focuses on the consequences of disobedience, it also underscores the power of repentance. God is always ready to forgive those who turn back to Him. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us" (1 John 1:9). Repentance restores our relationship with God and brings us back into His grace.

5. The Role of Prophets
Jeremiah’s role as a prophet in this chapter is crucial. He delivers God’s message with boldness and clarity, reminding us of the importance of listening to God’s messengers. Prophets like Jeremiah guide us in understanding God’s will and encourage us to live righteously.

6. The Significance of Covenants
Covenants are sacred agreements that hold great significance in our relationship with God. The broken covenant in Jeremiah 34 serves as a cautionary tale about the seriousness of our commitments to God. "I will be their God, and they will be My people" (Jeremiah 31:33) reflects the deep bond God desires with us through covenants.

7. God’s Patience and Longsuffering
Despite the people’s repeated disobedience, God’s patience is evident. He continually reaches out to them through Jeremiah, offering opportunities for repentance. This patience is a testament to God’s longsuffering nature, as He desires that none should perish but all come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

8. The Call to Social Justice
The initial release of the Hebrew slaves in Jeremiah 34 highlights God’s call for social justice. It reminds us that God cares deeply about how we treat others, especially the marginalized. "Learn to do right; seek justice" (Isaiah 1:17) is a call to action for us to reflect God’s love in our communities.

9. The Reality of Divine Judgment
Jeremiah 34 presents a sobering picture of divine judgment. God’s declarations through Jeremiah remind us that judgment is real and inevitable for those who persist in disobedience. However, it also serves as a motivation to live in accordance with God’s will, knowing that His judgment is just and righteous.

10. The Hope of Redemption
Amidst the warnings and judgments, there is always a thread of hope. God’s ultimate desire is for redemption and restoration. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). This hope encourages us to trust in God’s plan and remain faithful, knowing that His love and mercy are boundless.

1. The Word of the LORD to Jeremiah
God speaks to Jeremiah with a message for King Zedekiah of Judah. This message is a prophecy concerning the fate of Jerusalem and its king. The Hebrew root for "word" (דָּבָר, ^dabar^) emphasizes the authoritative and divine nature of the message.

2. The Fate of Jerusalem and Zedekiah
The LORD declares that Jerusalem will be handed over to the king of Babylon, who will burn it with fire. Zedekiah will not escape but will be captured and brought before Nebuchadnezzar. This prophecy underscores the certainty of divine judgment due to disobedience.

3. Zedekiah’s Personal Outcome
Despite the impending capture, God promises Zedekiah that he will not die by the sword but will die peacefully. This assurance reflects a measure of mercy amidst judgment, highlighting God's sovereignty and justice.

4. The Covenant to Free Hebrew Slaves
The people of Jerusalem had made a covenant to release their Hebrew slaves, in accordance with the law. This act was initially a step towards obedience to God's commands found in the Torah, specifically in Exodus 21:2-6 and Deuteronomy 15:12-18.

5. Violation of the Covenant
The people later reneged on their covenant, re-enslaving those they had freed. This breach of covenant is a significant act of disobedience, illustrating the people's persistent rebellion against God's laws.

6. God’s Judgment for Covenant Violation
As a result of breaking the covenant, God pronounces judgment on the people. The Hebrew term for "covenant" (בְּרִית, ^berit^) is central here, emphasizing the seriousness of their commitment and the gravity of their violation.

7. The Consequences of Disobedience
The LORD declares that He will bring the sword, pestilence, and famine upon those who violated the covenant. This reflects the curses associated with breaking a covenant, as outlined in Deuteronomy 28.

8. The Fate of the Leaders and People
The leaders and people who broke the covenant will be handed over to their enemies. This outcome serves as a warning about the consequences of unfaithfulness to God's commands.

Each topic in Jeremiah 34 highlights the themes of covenant, obedience, and divine judgment, reflecting the broader narrative of Israel's relationship with God.1. Divine Judgment and Prophecy
Jeremiah 34 opens with a prophecy of judgment against King Zedekiah and Jerusalem. The LORD declares through Jeremiah that the city will be handed over to the king of Babylon. This theme highlights the certainty of divine judgment as a consequence of disobedience. The Hebrew root for "prophecy" (נָבָא, naba) emphasizes the act of speaking forth God's message, underscoring the authority and inevitability of the divine word.

2. Conditional Promises and Human Responsibility
The chapter illustrates the conditional nature of God's promises, as seen in the covenant made by the people to free their Hebrew slaves. The initial obedience to this covenant is met with divine approval, but their subsequent disobedience leads to judgment. This theme underscores the importance of human responsibility in maintaining covenantal faithfulness.

3. Covenant Faithfulness and Violation
The theme of covenant is central, as the people of Judah initially obey the command to release their slaves, reflecting a return to covenant faithfulness. However, their later violation of this covenant by re-enslaving the freed individuals demonstrates a breach of trust. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a binding agreement, highlighting the seriousness of their commitment to God and each other.

4. Consequences of Disobedience
The chapter vividly portrays the consequences of breaking God's covenant. The LORD declares that because the people have not obeyed His command, they will face the sword, pestilence, and famine. This theme emphasizes the direct link between disobedience and divine retribution, reinforcing the moral order established by God.

5. Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency
Throughout Jeremiah 34, the interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency is evident. While God decrees judgment, the actions of the people—both their initial obedience and subsequent disobedience—play a crucial role in the unfolding of events. This theme highlights the tension between God's control over history and human responsibility.

6. The Role of Prophets
Jeremiah's role as a prophet is central to the narrative, serving as the mouthpiece of God to deliver messages of warning and judgment. This theme underscores the importance of prophets in communicating God's will and holding the people accountable to His standards. The Hebrew term for "prophet" (נָבִיא, nabi) reflects the calling to speak on behalf of God.

7. Social Justice and Liberation
The initial command to release Hebrew slaves reflects a concern for social justice and liberation, aligning with the broader biblical theme of freedom and equality. This theme highlights God's desire for His people to live in a society that reflects His justice and compassion, as seen in the laws given to Israel regarding the treatment of slaves.Pray for the strength and resolve to keep your commitments to God, even when it is difficult.

Ask for forgiveness and guidance if you have broken a promise to God, seeking His grace for restoration.

Pray for a heart that values true freedom in Christ and desires to live in obedience to His will.

Seek God's wisdom in understanding the seriousness of our commitments and the impact they have on our spiritual journey.

1. Jeremiah 34:3 – How could God promise Zedekiah would not die by the sword if 2 Kings 25:7 says Nebuchadnezzar blinded him and took him captive?

2. Jeremiah 34:7 – Where is the archeological evidence that Nebuchadnezzar besieged both Jerusalem and Lachish simultaneously as stated?

3. Jeremiah 34:8–11 – Why would the Israelites release their slaves, then immediately re-enslave them, if this event was truly a binding covenant?

4. Jeremiah 34:11–17 – How does God’s condemnation of re-enslavement align with other passages where slavery was permitted (e.g., Leviticus 25)?

5. Jeremiah 34:18–20 – If ancient covenant rituals had such dire consequences, why is there little to no concrete historical record of this specific covenant’s breach and punishment?

1. How do you interpret God's prophecy about Zedekiah's fate?

2. What parallels can you draw between the emancipation and re-enslavement of Hebrew slaves and societal issues today?

3. In what ways might you have experienced or witnessed the consequences of disobedience in your life?

4. How can the broken covenant in Jeremiah 34 be related to the concept of commitments and promises in today's world?

5. What does this chapter teach us about God's view on freedom and slavery?

6. How can we apply the lessons from God's judgment on Judah's disobedience in our personal lives?

7. What does this chapter teach us about God's justice and mercy?

8. How does the prophecy against Zedekiah reflect on the consequences of leadership decisions today?

9. How does the return of the Hebrew slaves to bondage speak to the issue of freedom and human rights in our society?

10. How can we ensure we're obedient to God's word in our daily life?

11. What can we learn from the initial obedience of the officials of Judah, and their subsequent defiance?

12. How do you interpret the symbolism of Jerusalem's destruction in Jeremiah 34?

13. How can the concept of covenant from this chapter be applied to modern-day relationships?

14. How do you think you would have reacted if you were a Hebrew slave given freedom, only to be re-enslaved?

15. How can we avoid the trap of disobedience witnessed in Jeremiah 34 in our contemporary society?

16. How does Jeremiah 34 inspire you to uphold justice in your community?

17. Can you see any echoes of the events of Jeremiah 34 in current world events?

18. How does the chapter's mention of the ancestors' release from Egypt resonate with you in terms of remembering past deliverances?

19. What role does repentance play in avoiding the kind of divine judgment depicted in Jeremiah 34?

20. How does this chapter challenge your understanding of God's divine justice, mercy, and the consequences of disobedience?