Jeremiah 21:2

"Please inquire of the LORD on our behalf, since Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is waging war against us. Perhaps the LORD will perform for us something like all His past wonders, so that Nebuchadnezzar will withdraw from us."

Study Bible

Please inquire of the LORD on our behalf
This phrase indicates a request for divine guidance and intervention. In the context of ancient Israel, seeking a prophet to inquire of the LORD was a common practice, especially in times of crisis. Jeremiah, as a prophet, served as a mediator between God and the people. This reflects the Israelites' understanding of God as sovereign and capable of influencing the outcome of events. The request also shows a reliance on the prophetic office, which was established in Israel to communicate God's will.

since Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is waging war against us
Nebuchadnezzar II was the king of Babylon from 605 to 562 BC and is known for his military conquests and the expansion of the Babylonian Empire. His siege of Jerusalem was a significant historical event, leading to the eventual fall of the city in 586 BC. This phrase highlights the immediate threat faced by Judah and the desperation of the people. Historically, this period was marked by political instability and shifting alliances, with Babylon emerging as a dominant power after defeating the Assyrians and Egyptians.

Perhaps the LORD will perform for us something like all His past wonders
This reflects a hope rooted in the history of Israel, where God performed miraculous acts to deliver His people, such as the Exodus from Egypt and victories in battles under leaders like Joshua and David. The phrase suggests a belief in God's ability to intervene supernaturally. It also implies a recognition of God's past faithfulness and power, which the people hoped would be demonstrated again in their current crisis.

so that Nebuchadnezzar will withdraw from us
The desired outcome of the inquiry is the withdrawal of Babylonian forces, indicating a hope for deliverance without the need for military engagement. This reflects a reliance on divine intervention rather than human strength or strategy. Historically, the withdrawal of an invading army would have been seen as a sign of divine favor and protection. Theologically, it underscores the belief in God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to alter the course of history for the sake of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. He is known for his unwavering commitment to God's truth despite opposition.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of the Babylonian siege. He sought Jeremiah's intercession with God, hoping for deliverance.

3. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, known for his military conquests and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem. He represents God's instrument of judgment against Judah.

4. Babylon
A powerful empire during this period, used by God to execute judgment on Judah for their disobedience and idolatry.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing God's judgment due to persistent sin and rebellion against His covenant.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Genuine Repentance
Zedekiah's request for divine intervention lacked true repentance. In our lives, seeking God's help should be accompanied by a sincere heart change.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The Babylonian siege was a fulfillment of God's warnings through the prophets. Recognize God's sovereignty and justice in allowing consequences for sin.

Hope in God's Past Faithfulness
While Zedekiah hoped for a miraculous deliverance, we can trust in God's faithfulness and past acts of deliverance as a foundation for our faith.

The Role of Intercession
Jeremiah's role as an intercessor highlights the power and responsibility of praying for others, especially in times of crisis.

The Danger of Presumption
Assuming God will act in a certain way without seeking His will can lead to disappointment. We must align our desires with God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Zedekiah's request reveal about his understanding of God's character and past actions?

2. How does the situation in Jeremiah 21:2 compare to other instances in the Bible where leaders sought God's intervention in times of crisis?

3. In what ways can we ensure our requests to God are accompanied by genuine repentance and alignment with His will?

4. How can we draw strength and hope from God's past faithfulness in our current challenges?

5. What role does intercessory prayer play in your life, and how can you be more intentional in praying for others facing difficult situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25
Provides historical context for the fall of Jerusalem and the role of Nebuchadnezzar in God's judgment against Judah.

Jeremiah 29:10-14
Offers hope and future restoration for Judah, emphasizing God's faithfulness despite current judgment.

Exodus 14:13-14
Reflects on God's past wonders, such as the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, which Zedekiah hoped would be repeated.

Isaiah 37:14-20
Similar to Zedekiah's plea, King Hezekiah also sought God's intervention against an invading army, highlighting the importance of seeking God in times of crisis.