Jeremiah 27:17

Do not listen to them. Serve the king of Babylon and live! Why should this city become a ruin?

Study Bible

Do not listen to them.
In this context, "them" refers to the false prophets and leaders who were encouraging rebellion against Babylon. These false prophets were claiming that God would deliver Judah from Babylonian control, contradicting Jeremiah's message. This phrase emphasizes the importance of discerning true prophetic voices from false ones, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture (e.g., Deuteronomy 18:20-22, 1 John 4:1).

Serve the king of Babylon and live!
Jeremiah's message was countercultural and difficult for the people to accept. Serving the king of Babylon was seen as an act of submission to a foreign power, yet it was God's directive for the survival of Judah. This command highlights the sovereignty of God over nations and His use of foreign powers to accomplish His purposes (e.g., Isaiah 45:1-7). It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching of submission to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-7).

Why should this city become a ruin?
Jeremiah appeals to the people's sense of preservation and the value of Jerusalem, the city of God. The potential ruin of Jerusalem serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience. Historically, Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and identity, making its destruction a profound loss. This phrase underscores the theme of divine judgment and mercy, as God offers a way to avoid destruction through obedience. It also points to the eventual hope of restoration, as seen in later prophecies of a new Jerusalem (Revelation 21:2).

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. King of Babylon
Refers to Nebuchadnezzar II, the powerful ruler of the Babylonian Empire, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was facing impending judgment and exile due to its persistent disobedience and idolatry.

4. False Prophets
Individuals who claimed to speak for God but delivered messages contrary to His will, often offering false hope and leading the people astray.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was at risk of destruction due to the people's rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Sovereignty
God sometimes uses unexpected means, including foreign powers, to accomplish His purposes. Recognizing His sovereignty helps us trust His plans even when they are difficult to understand.

Discernment Against False Teachings
The call to "not listen to them" highlights the importance of discerning true messages from God versus false prophecies. We must be rooted in Scripture to recognize and reject false teachings.

Submission for Preservation
Serving the king of Babylon was a means of preserving life and avoiding unnecessary destruction. Similarly, submission to God's ordained authorities can lead to peace and preservation.

Hope in Exile
Even in exile, God’s people are called to live and seek the welfare of their surroundings, trusting in His ultimate plan for restoration and hope.

Consequences of Disobedience
Ignoring God's warnings leads to ruin, as seen in the potential destruction of Jerusalem. Obedience to God’s commands is crucial for avoiding spiritual and physical ruin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty help us respond to difficult circumstances in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we discern between true and false teachings in our current cultural context?

3. How can we apply the principle of submission to authority in our daily lives, especially when we disagree with those in power?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek the welfare of our communities, even when we feel like exiles in a foreign culture?

5. Reflect on a time when disobedience led to negative consequences in your life. How can you use that experience to encourage others to follow God's guidance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 29:7
This verse encourages the exiles to seek the welfare of the city where they are taken, showing a similar theme of submission to Babylonian rule for the sake of survival and future hope.

2 Kings 24:12-17
Describes the historical context of Judah's submission to Babylon, providing background to Jeremiah's message.

Romans 13:1-2
Paul’s teaching on submission to governing authorities echoes the call to submit to Babylonian rule as ordained by God.