Jeremiah 21:13

Behold, I am against you who dwell above the valley, atop the rocky plateau--declares the LORD--you who say, "Who can come against us? Who can enter our dwellings?"

Study Bible

Behold, I am against you
This phrase indicates a direct declaration of opposition from God. In the context of Jeremiah, God often speaks against the leaders and people of Judah due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. This divine opposition is a serious matter, as it signifies that the people have moved beyond mere disobedience to a point where God Himself is actively working against them. This echoes other instances in the Bible where God opposes the proud (James 4:6).

who dwell above the valley
This refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which is situated on a series of hills and surrounded by valleys. The geographical setting of Jerusalem gave its inhabitants a sense of security, as the valleys provided natural defenses against invaders. However, this phrase suggests that their physical location has led to a false sense of security, ignoring the spiritual and moral decay within.

atop the rocky plateau
The rocky plateau further emphasizes the natural fortifications of Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence supports the strategic advantage of Jerusalem's topography, which made it difficult for enemies to conquer. Despite this, the phrase serves as a reminder that physical defenses are meaningless without God's protection, as seen in other biblical narratives like the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6).

declares the LORD
This phrase underscores the authority and certainty of the message. When God declares something, it is not merely a prediction but a statement of what will surely come to pass. This is a common prophetic formula used throughout the Old Testament to affirm the divine origin of the message.

you who say, “Who can come against us?
This reflects the arrogance and complacency of the people of Jerusalem. They believed their city was impregnable due to its fortifications and perhaps their status as God's chosen people. This attitude is reminiscent of other biblical instances where human pride leads to downfall, such as the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:4).

Who can enter our dwellings?”
The rhetorical question highlights the false confidence of the people in their security. Historically, Jerusalem had withstood many sieges, which may have contributed to this overconfidence. However, the prophetic message warns that no earthly defense can stand against God's judgment. This serves as a reminder of the need for humility and reliance on God rather than on human strength or achievements.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

2. Valley Dweller
Refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, which is situated in a valley surrounded by hills, symbolizing a false sense of security.

3. Rocky Plain
A metaphor for the fortified city of Jerusalem, emphasizing its perceived impregnability.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who is declaring His opposition to the pride and false security of the people.

5. Judah and Jerusalem
The southern kingdom and its capital, facing impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry.

Teaching Points

False Security
The inhabitants of Jerusalem believed their city was invincible due to its geographical and man-made defenses. This serves as a warning against placing our trust in worldly securities rather than in God.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human efforts to secure themselves, God declares His authority and power over all. We must recognize that true security comes from submitting to His will.

Pride and Humility
The pride of Jerusalem's inhabitants led to their downfall. We are called to humility, acknowledging our dependence on God rather than our own strength or resources.

Repentance and Obedience
The context of Jeremiah's message is a call to repentance. We are reminded of the importance of turning back to God and living in obedience to His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "valleys" or "rocky plains" where people might place their trust instead of in God?

2. How does the message of Jeremiah 21:13 challenge us to evaluate our own sources of security and confidence?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a heart of humility and dependence on God in our daily lives?

4. How do the additional scriptures connected to this passage reinforce the theme of true security in God?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our lives are built on the solid foundation of God's word, as illustrated in Matthew 7:24-27?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 22:1-14
This passage also addresses the false security of Jerusalem, highlighting the people's reliance on their defenses rather than on God.

Psalm 20:7
Contrasts trust in human strength and military might with trust in the name of the LORD.

Proverbs 18:10-11
Illustrates the difference between the security found in God and the false security of wealth and human defenses.

Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders underscores the importance of building one's life on the solid foundation of God's word rather than on false securities.