What does "commanded it" in Jeremiah 47:7 reveal about God's authority?

◄ God's authority in Jeremiah 47:7? ►

The Text in Focus

“ How can it rest when the LORD has commanded it? He has appointed it against Ashkelon and the shore of its coast.” (Jeremiah 47:7)

Observing the Phrase “commanded it”

• “It” refers to the sword of judgment (v. 6).

• The sword’s movements are tied directly to the Lord’s spoken order.

• No room is left for chance, fate, or purely human decision; divine command stands behind the event.

Layers of Meaning

• Sovereign Initiation

– The action begins with God, not with Philistine aggression or Judah’s politics (cf. Isaiah 14:24).

• Active Governance

– God is not a passive observer; He “appoints” specific targets (Ashkelon, the seacoast) just as He directs kings and nations (Proverbs 21:1).

• Binding Authority

– The sword “cannot rest” until the command is fulfilled, echoing Psalm 33:9: “For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm.”

• Moral Certainty

– Because God commands, the judgment is righteous (Deuteronomy 32:4). Human opinion cannot overturn His verdict.

Implications for God’s Authority

• Universal Rule

– Heaven, earth, and the affairs of nations operate under God’s decree (Psalm 103:19).

• Instrumental Use of Agents

– Even military forces become tools in His hand (Isaiah 10:5–6; Jeremiah 25:9).

• Unstoppable Purpose

– What God orders will reach its target; the sword has no option to “sheath itself” prematurely (Amos 3:6).

• Accountability for All

– Nations and individuals remain responsible, yet their histories serve God’s larger plan (Job 12:23).

Living in the Light of This Authority

• Confidence: History is not random; it unfolds beneath God’s steady command (Romans 8:28).

• Reverence: His spoken word carries irresistible force—sufficient reason to heed all Scripture (James 1:22).

• Humility: Recognizing God’s right to command restrains pride and self-reliance (1 Peter 5:6).

• Hope: The same authority that wields the sword of judgment also secures the promise of salvation through Christ (John 10:28–29).