What is the meaning of Jeremiah 38:15? “If I tell you,” • Jeremiah stands at a crossroads of truth and danger, recognizing that proclamation of God’s word can cost a prophet his life (cf. Jeremiah 26:11; Luke 11:49). • He signals honesty from the outset; withholding divine revelation is never an option for a faithful servant (Jeremiah 20:9). • The phrase underscores personal risk, reminding us that obedience often invites opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). “Jeremiah replied,” • The prophet answers King Zedekiah directly, modeling respectful yet uncompromised speech before authority (Acts 5:29). • His reply reveals a habit of responsiveness to both God and people, contrasting the king’s inconsistency (Jeremiah 34:20–21). • The narrative assures readers that God equips His servants with words at critical moments (Exodus 4:12; Matthew 10:19–20). “you will surely put me to death.” • Jeremiah acknowledges the king’s unchecked power and volatile character, much like earlier monarchs who silenced prophets (1 Kings 18:4; Matthew 23:37). • He frames the cost of truth as potentially fatal, yet does not retreat—an example of fearing God more than man (Proverbs 29:25; Matthew 10:28). • The certainty (“surely”) reveals Jeremiah’s clear-eyed realism; he is not naïve about human sin or political intrigue (Jeremiah 37:15–16). “And even if I give you advice,” • The term “advice” points to God-given counsel meant for the king’s blessing (Jeremiah 38:17–18). • Jeremiah highlights a pattern of ignored warnings, echoing centuries of rejected prophetic counsel (2 Chronicles 36:15–16). • His willingness to offer guidance despite past refusals illustrates steadfast love and perseverance (Galatians 6:9). “you will not listen to me.” • The king’s habitual deafness typifies Israel’s broader spiritual stubbornness (Jeremiah 7:27; Zechariah 7:11–12). • Unheeded truth brings judgment; Jeremiah foresees the inevitable fall of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 39:6–8). • The statement warns modern readers: hearing without obedience invites disaster (James 1:22–24; Hebrews 3:15). summary Jeremiah 38:15 portrays a prophet who, fully aware of mortal danger and royal apathy, nevertheless stands ready to speak God’s uncompromised word. His realism about persecution, coupled with unwavering commitment to truth, challenges believers to bold obedience, trusting the Lord with outcomes while refusing to dilute divine counsel. |
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