Jeremiah 21:6

I will strike down the residents of this city, both man and beast. They will die in a terrible plague.'

Study Bible

I will strike down
This phrase indicates a direct action from God, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over life and death. The Hebrew root here is "נָכָה" (nakah), which means to smite or strike. This is a reminder of God's authority and the seriousness of sin. In the context of Jeremiah, it reflects God's judgment upon Jerusalem due to their persistent disobedience and idolatry. Historically, this is a period where the people of Judah were facing the consequences of turning away from God, and this phrase underscores the certainty and severity of divine judgment.

the residents of this city
The "residents" refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. This city was central to Jewish life, both politically and spiritually. The Hebrew word "יֹשֵׁב" (yoshev) implies those who dwell or inhabit, indicating that the judgment is comprehensive, affecting all who live there. Jerusalem, being the city of David and the location of the Temple, held significant religious importance. The mention of its residents highlights the collective responsibility and the widespread nature of the sin that had permeated the society.

both man and beast
This phrase illustrates the totality of the impending judgment. The inclusion of "beast" alongside "man" signifies that the consequences of sin affect all of creation, not just humanity. The Hebrew words "אָדָם" (adam) for man and "בְּהֵמָה" (behemah) for beast show that the natural order is also subject to the repercussions of human sin. This reflects the interconnectedness of creation, as seen in Genesis, where the fall of man brought a curse upon the earth. It serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin.

They will die
The inevitability of death here is a direct result of divine judgment. The Hebrew verb "מוּת" (muth) means to die or perish, indicating the finality of the judgment. This is not just a physical death but also symbolizes spiritual death and separation from God. In the broader biblical narrative, death is the ultimate consequence of sin, as stated in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death." This phrase calls believers to reflect on the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and redemption through Christ.

in a terrible plague
The "terrible plague" is a specific form of judgment, often used in the Old Testament as a means of divine retribution. The Hebrew word "דֶּבֶר" (deber) refers to pestilence or plague, which historically were seen as acts of God to bring about repentance or to punish. In the context of Jeremiah, this plague is part of the larger narrative of the Babylonian siege and the suffering that would come upon Jerusalem. It serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and a call to return to Him in faithfulness. This phrase encourages believers to trust in God's mercy and seek His protection, knowing that He is just and righteous in all His ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver messages of judgment and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, including Zedekiah, during whose reign this prophecy was given.

2. Residents of Jerusalem
The inhabitants of the city of Jerusalem, who were living in rebellion against God and facing impending judgment due to their persistent sin and idolatry.

3. King Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of this prophecy. He sought Jeremiah's counsel as the Babylonian threat loomed over Jerusalem.

4. Babylonian Siege
The historical context of this prophecy is the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem, which was a direct consequence of Judah's disobedience to God.

5. Plague
A divine judgment pronounced by God as part of the calamities that would befall Jerusalem, alongside sword and famine, due to their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
God's warnings through His prophets are serious and should not be taken lightly. Persistent disobedience leads to severe consequences, as seen in the judgment pronounced on Jerusalem.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign and just in His judgments. The use of plague as a form of judgment demonstrates His control over all creation, including life and death.

The Call to Repentance
Even in the face of impending judgment, there is always a call to repentance. God's desire is for His people to turn back to Him and avoid the consequences of their sin.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah play a crucial role in communicating God's messages. Their words, though often difficult, are meant to guide and correct God's people.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While this passage focuses on judgment, the broader account of Jeremiah includes promises of restoration and hope for those who return to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Jeremiah 21:6 help us understand the seriousness of God's judgment on Jerusalem?

2. In what ways do the consequences outlined in Jeremiah 21:6 reflect the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28?

3. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and disobedience from this passage to our personal lives today?

4. What role do modern-day "prophets" or spiritual leaders play in guiding us back to God, and how can we discern their messages?

5. How does the theme of hope and restoration in the book of Jeremiah encourage us when we face the consequences of our own actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including plagues, which are similar to the judgments pronounced in Jeremiah 21:6.

Ezekiel 14
This passage also speaks of God's judgment through sword, famine, and plague, emphasizing the seriousness of turning away from God.

Revelation 6
The imagery of plagues and divine judgment is echoed in the apocalyptic visions, showing the consistency of God's justice throughout Scripture.