Topical Bible: Intercession: Ebed-Melech for Jeremiah

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Background and Context:

Ebed-Melech, whose name means "servant of the king," is a significant figure in the narrative of the prophet Jeremiah, particularly in the context of intercession. He was an Ethiopian eunuch serving in the court of King Zedekiah of Judah during the tumultuous period leading up to the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem. His account is primarily found in the Book of Jeremiah, chapters 38 and 39.

Biblical Account:

In Jeremiah 38, the prophet Jeremiah is cast into a cistern by the officials of King Zedekiah. They were angered by Jeremiah's prophecies of Jerusalem's impending fall and sought to silence him. The cistern, which had no water but only mud, was a place of certain death for Jeremiah, as he would have eventually succumbed to hunger and thirst.

Ebed-Melech, upon hearing of Jeremiah's plight, courageously approached King Zedekiah to intercede on behalf of the prophet. The Berean Standard Bible records his plea: "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 starve to death when there is no more bread in the city" (Jeremiah 38:9).

Moved by Ebed-Melech's appeal, King Zedekiah commanded that Jeremiah be lifted out of the cistern. Ebed-Melech took immediate action, gathering thirty men and using old rags and worn-out clothes to lift Jeremiah from the mud, ensuring his safety and survival (Jeremiah 38:10-13).

Significance of Ebed-Melech's Intercession:

Ebed-Melech's intercession is notable for several reasons:

1. Courage and Compassion: Ebed-Melech demonstrated remarkable courage by approaching the king and speaking against the actions of the officials. His compassion for Jeremiah, a man of God, highlights his righteous character and willingness to act justly, even at personal risk.

2. Divine Favor: Ebed-Melech's actions did not go unnoticed by God. In Jeremiah 39, after the fall of Jerusalem, the Lord spoke to Jeremiah, assuring him of Ebed-Melech's deliverance: "But I will rescue you on that day, declares the LORD, and you will not be delivered into the hands of the men you fear. For I will surely deliver you so that you do not fall by the sword. Because you have trusted in Me, you will keep your life like a spoil" (Jeremiah 39:17-18). This divine promise underscores the importance of faith and righteousness.

3. Role of Intercession: Ebed-Melech's intervention serves as a powerful example of intercession in the Bible. His actions illustrate how one person's faith and courage can alter the course of events and bring about God's mercy and justice. It highlights the biblical principle that God often uses individuals to accomplish His purposes and protect His servants.

Theological Implications:

Ebed-Melech's account is a testament to the power of intercession and the importance of standing up for truth and justice. It reflects the biblical theme that God honors those who act with integrity and faith, even in the face of adversity. Ebed-Melech's faith and trust in God were rewarded, demonstrating that divine protection and favor are extended to those who align themselves with God's will and purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 38:7-13
Now when Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, one of the eunuchs which was in the king's house, heard that they had put Jeremiah in the dungeon; the king then sitting in the gate of Benjamin;
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Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
... guard (1 Kings 14:27) And Jeremiah to the hands of Gedaliah (Jeremiah 39:14 ... apply
ourselves unto him in faith in a way of prayer, intercession, supplication and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm