What can we learn about courage from Ebed-melech's actions in Jeremiah 38:9? The Setting: When Truth Is Thrown into a Pit Jeremiah 38 records Jeremiah lowered into a mud-filled cistern for proclaiming God’s word. Enter Ebed-melech, an Ethiopian court official, who goes straight to King Zedekiah and says: “My lord the king, these men have acted wickedly in all they have done to Jeremiah the prophet. They have thrown him into a cistern, where he will die of hunger, for there is no more bread in the city.” (Jeremiah 38:9) Boldly Confronting Injustice • He names evil for what it is: “acted wickedly.” • He defends the prophet’s innocence. • He risks his position—and life—by contradicting powerful princes (vv.4-6). What Courage Looks Like • Moral clarity: Courage starts with recognizing right and wrong (Isaiah 5:20). • Compassion in action: He doesn’t just feel bad; he intervenes (Proverbs 24:11-12). • Fear of God over fear of man: Better to offend princes than disobey the Lord (Acts 5:29). • Wisdom and tact: Approaches the king respectfully—courage isn’t recklessness (Colossians 4:6). • Perseverance: He follows through until Jeremiah is lifted out (38:11-13). Why God Honors Such Courage • God later sends Jeremiah to promise Ebed-melech deliverance when Jerusalem falls: “Because you have trusted in Me” (Jeremiah 39:18). • His story mirrors God’s pattern: those who protect His messengers are protected by Him (1 Kings 17:13-16; Matthew 10:40-42). Living Out Ebed-melech’s Example Today • Speak truth, even when it costs (Joshua 1:9). • Stand with the persecuted church (Hebrews 13:3). • Trust divine vindication more than human approval (Psalm 56:11). |
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