Jeremiah 15:20

Then I will make you a wall to this people, a fortified wall of bronze; they will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you to save and deliver you, declares the LORD.

Study Bible

Then I will make you a wall to this people
This phrase signifies God's promise to Jeremiah, ensuring his protection and strength amidst opposition. In ancient times, city walls were crucial for defense, symbolizing security and resilience. Jeremiah, as a prophet, faced hostility from his own people, and God’s assurance here is that he will be as unyielding and protective as a wall. This imagery is reminiscent of God’s promises to other prophets and leaders, such as Moses and Joshua, where divine support is pledged in the face of adversity.

a fortified wall of bronze
Bronze, in biblical times, was a symbol of strength and durability. It was used in the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple, indicating its importance and resilience. By describing Jeremiah as a "fortified wall of bronze," God emphasizes the prophet's invincibility against spiritual and physical attacks. This metaphor also points to the divine empowerment given to Jeremiah, making him unbreakable in his mission, much like the strength attributed to Jesus Christ in His earthly ministry.

they will fight against you but will not overcome you
This phrase acknowledges the inevitable opposition Jeremiah will face. Throughout his ministry, Jeremiah encountered resistance from kings, priests, and false prophets. However, the assurance that they "will not overcome you" highlights God's sovereignty and protection over His chosen servants. This echoes the New Testament promise found in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" It reassures believers of divine victory over worldly challenges.

for I am with you to save and deliver you
God’s presence is a recurring theme in Scripture, providing comfort and assurance. Here, the promise to "save and deliver" underscores God’s active role in Jeremiah’s life, ensuring his safety and success. This divine companionship is a type of Christ, who promises His presence to His followers in Matthew 28:20, "I am with you always, to the very end of the age." It highlights the personal relationship God maintains with His people, offering salvation and deliverance.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" affirms the authority and certainty of the message. It is a divine proclamation, emphasizing that the promise comes directly from God, who is faithful and unchanging. This assurance is foundational for believers, as it reflects the trustworthiness of God’s word, similar to the declarations made by Jesus in the Gospels, where His words carry divine authority and promise fulfillment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He faced significant opposition and persecution for his prophecies.

2. The People of Judah
The audience of Jeremiah's prophecies, often resistant and rebellious against God's messages delivered through Jeremiah.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who promises protection and deliverance to Jeremiah despite the opposition he faces.

4. Fortified Wall of Bronze
A metaphor used by God to describe the strength and resilience He will provide to Jeremiah against his adversaries.

5. Opposition
The adversaries and challenges Jeremiah faces from his own people, who reject his prophetic messages.

Teaching Points

Divine Protection and Strength
God equips His servants with the strength needed to withstand opposition. Just as Jeremiah was made a "fortified wall of bronze," believers today can trust in God's protection and empowerment.

Faithfulness in the Face of Opposition
Jeremiah's example teaches us the importance of remaining faithful to God's calling, even when facing resistance or persecution.

God's Presence as Assurance
The promise "for I am with you" is a powerful assurance that God's presence accompanies His people, providing comfort and courage.

The Inevitability of Spiritual Conflict
Believers should expect spiritual opposition but can be confident that, like Jeremiah, they will not be overcome because of God's deliverance.

The Role of Prophetic Voices
Jeremiah's role as a prophet highlights the importance of speaking truth, even when it is unpopular, trusting in God's ultimate plan and protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's promise to make Jeremiah a "fortified wall of bronze" encourage you in your current challenges or opposition?

2. In what ways can you relate to Jeremiah's experience of facing resistance when standing for God's truth?

3. How does the assurance of God's presence ("for I am with you") impact your daily walk with Him, especially in difficult times?

4. What other biblical figures faced similar opposition and how did they rely on God's strength to overcome?

5. How can you apply the lessons from Jeremiah 15:20 to encourage others who are facing spiritual battles or persecution?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1:18-19
This passage echoes God's initial promise to Jeremiah, where God assures him of His protection and presence, making him a fortified city and iron pillar.

Matthew 10:22
Jesus speaks of the persecution His followers will face, yet assures them of His presence and ultimate victory, similar to God's promise to Jeremiah.

2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul speaks of God's grace being sufficient and His power made perfect in weakness, paralleling the divine strength given to Jeremiah.