Jeremiah 27:7

All nations will serve him and his son and grandson, until the time of his own land comes; then many nations and great kings will enslave him.

Study Bible

All nations will serve him
This phrase refers to the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who was used by God as an instrument of judgment against Judah and other nations. Historically, Babylon was a dominant empire during this period, and many nations were subjugated under its rule. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where God uses foreign powers to discipline His people, as seen in Habakkuk 1:6.

and his son and grandson,
This indicates the continuation of Babylonian dominance through Nebuchadnezzar's lineage. His son, Evil-Merodach, and grandson, Belshazzar, are mentioned in the Bible. The historical context shows that the Babylonian Empire maintained its power for several generations, fulfilling this prophecy. Daniel 5 provides insight into the reign of Belshazzar and the eventual fall of Babylon.

until the time of his own land comes;
This phrase suggests a divinely appointed end to Babylon's dominance. The "time" refers to God's sovereign plan and timing for the rise and fall of empires. This is consistent with the biblical theme that God raises up and brings down nations according to His purposes, as seen in Daniel 2:21.

then many nations and great kings will enslave him.
This prophecy foretells the eventual downfall of Babylon, which occurred when the Medes and Persians conquered it. Historically, this happened in 539 BC under the leadership of Cyrus the Great. The biblical account in Daniel 5 describes the fall of Babylon, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecy. This serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly powers and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nebuchadnezzar
The king of Babylon, who is prophesied to have dominion over many nations. His reign is a significant period in biblical history, representing God's judgment and sovereignty.

2. Babylon
The empire that serves as the instrument of God's judgment against Judah and other nations. It symbolizes both power and eventual downfall.

3. Nations
Refers to the various kingdoms and peoples that will be subject to Babylon's rule, illustrating the widespread impact of Babylonian dominance.

4. Son and Grandson
These refer to the successors of Nebuchadnezzar, indicating the continuation of Babylonian rule through his lineage until its eventual decline.

5. Great Kings
Represents the future leaders who will rise against Babylon, signifying the shift in power as ordained by God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God's control over the rise and fall of empires demonstrates His ultimate authority over human history.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power
Earthly kingdoms, no matter how powerful, are temporary and subject to God's timing and judgment.

The Consequences of Pride and Oppression
Babylon's eventual downfall serves as a warning against pride and the oppression of others, reminding us of the importance of humility and justice.

Trust in God's Timing
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's perfect timing, even when it seems that evil powers prevail.

Hope in God's Justice
The prophecy assures us that God will bring justice and restore righteousness, offering hope to those who suffer under unjust rule.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy in Jeremiah 27:7 about Babylon's rule and eventual downfall reflect God's sovereignty over history?

2. In what ways can the temporary nature of Babylon's power serve as a reminder for us today regarding the pursuit of worldly power and success?

3. How does the fall of Babylon in Daniel 5 illustrate the fulfillment of God's word in Jeremiah 27:7?

4. What lessons can we learn from Babylon's pride and subsequent downfall that apply to our personal lives and leadership roles?

5. How can the assurance of God's ultimate justice, as seen in the prophecy against Babylon, provide comfort and hope in current global or personal situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 5
The fall of Babylon under Belshazzar, Nebuchadnezzar's descendant, fulfills the prophecy of Babylon's eventual subjugation by other nations.

Isaiah 14
This passage speaks of the downfall of Babylon, echoing the theme of divine judgment and the reversal of fortunes for oppressive powers.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon the Great in Revelation parallels the historical fall of Babylon, symbolizing God's ultimate judgment against worldly powers.