What is the meaning of Jeremiah 21:3? But Jeremiah answered “But Jeremiah answered, ‘You are to tell Zedekiah…’” (Jeremiah 21:3) • The verse opens with a sharp contrast—Jeremiah’s response comes after King Zedekiah’s desperate inquiry for divine help (Jeremiah 21:1-2). Like Elijah before Ahab (1 Kings 18:17-18), Jeremiah stands as an uncompromising mouthpiece for the LORD. • His “answer” is not personal opinion; it is God’s word delivered with prophetic authority (Jeremiah 1:7; 2 Chronicles 36:15-16). • Notice the immediacy: no hesitation, no negotiation—Jeremiah speaks because he is under divine command, echoing Amos 3:8, “The Lord GOD has spoken—who can but prophesy?” You are to tell Zedekiah • The phrase shows Jeremiah acting as a courier of heaven’s verdict to the earthly king (compare Nathan confronting David in 2 Samuel 12:7; also Jeremiah 22:1-2). • Zedekiah, Judah’s last monarch (2 Kings 24:17-20), hoped for relief from Babylon; instead he will hear a message of judgment (Jeremiah 21:4-7). • By commanding Jeremiah, God bypasses royal authority, reminding us that “the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms” (Daniel 4:17). • The text underscores accountability: leaders are not exempt from God’s directives (Romans 13:1-2). Zedekiah must face truth, whether he likes it or not (Jeremiah 37:2). summary Jeremiah 21:3 highlights the prophet’s duty and the king’s responsibility. God speaks first; human power must listen. The verse sets the stage for the sobering prophecy that follows: Jerusalem will fall because of persistent rebellion. Far from a casual reply, Jeremiah’s answer is the authoritative word of the LORD directed to Zedekiah, reminding every reader that divine truth stands above political maneuvering and offers no escape routes apart from wholehearted repentance. |
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