Jeremiah 38:20

"They will not hand you over," Jeremiah replied. "Obey the voice of the LORD in what I am telling you, that it may go well with you and you may live.

Study Bible

They will not hand you over,
Jeremiah reassures King Zedekiah that his fears of being delivered into the hands of the Babylonians by his own people are unfounded. This reflects the prophet's role as a messenger of God's protection and promise. Historically, Zedekiah was caught between the pressures of his officials and the threat of Babylon, highlighting the political turmoil of the time. This assurance is reminiscent of God's promises of protection found throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 91:3-7.

Jeremiah replied.
Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," often faced opposition and danger for delivering God's messages. His response here is consistent with his character as a faithful servant of God, willing to speak truth to power despite personal risk. This moment underscores the prophet's commitment to his divine mission, similar to other prophets like Elijah and Isaiah.

Obey the voice of the LORD
The call to obedience is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands. In the context of Jeremiah's ministry, this obedience is crucial for the survival and well-being of the people. The phrase echoes Deuteronomy 28, where blessings are promised for obedience and curses for disobedience. It also foreshadows the New Testament call to follow Christ's teachings.

in what I am telling you,
Jeremiah's message is not his own but a direct communication from God. This highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries between God and His people. The phrase underscores the importance of heeding prophetic warnings, as seen in the lives of other biblical figures like Noah and Jonah, who delivered messages of impending judgment and the need for repentance.

that it may go well with you
This promise of well-being is contingent upon obedience, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is a recurring biblical theme that obedience leads to blessings, as seen in the lives of individuals like Joseph and Daniel, who prospered because of their faithfulness to God.

and you may live.
The promise of life is both physical and spiritual, emphasizing the ultimate goal of God's commands: the preservation and flourishing of His people. This assurance of life is a common biblical motif, seen in passages like Deuteronomy 30:19-20, where choosing life through obedience to God is encouraged. It also points to the New Testament promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance in delivering God's word despite persecution.

2. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, who reigned during the time of Jerusalem's fall to Babylon. He sought Jeremiah's counsel but often struggled with fear and indecision.

3. The Siege of Jerusalem
A significant event where Babylon besieged Jerusalem, leading to its eventual fall. This context is crucial for understanding the urgency of Jeremiah's message.

4. The Chaldeans/Babylonians
The empire that besieged and eventually conquered Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecies of judgment against Judah.

5. The Voice of the LORD
Represents God's direct communication and guidance, which Jeremiah urges Zedekiah to obey for his well-being.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Voice
Obedience to God is crucial for our well-being and spiritual life. Just as Jeremiah urged Zedekiah, we are called to listen and act according to God's guidance.

The Consequences of Fear
Fear can paralyze decision-making and lead to disobedience. Zedekiah's fear of the Babylonians and his own people hindered his ability to follow God's command.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Seeking and heeding godly counsel, as Zedekiah did with Jeremiah, is vital. However, it must be coupled with the courage to act on that counsel.

Trust in God's Promises
Trusting in God's promises, even when circumstances seem dire, is essential. Jeremiah assured Zedekiah of safety if he obeyed, reflecting God's faithfulness.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah play a crucial role in delivering God's messages. Their words often challenge us to align our lives with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jeremiah's assurance to Zedekiah reflect God's character and promises throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can fear hinder our obedience to God's voice, and how can we overcome it?

3. How does the context of the siege of Jerusalem enhance our understanding of Jeremiah's message to Zedekiah?

4. What are some modern-day examples of seeking and following godly counsel, and how can we apply this in our lives?

5. How do the themes of obedience and trust in Jeremiah 38:20 connect with other biblical teachings on these topics?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 30:19-20
This passage emphasizes choosing life by obeying God's voice, similar to Jeremiah's urging to Zedekiah.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trusting in the Lord and acknowledging Him in all ways aligns with Jeremiah's call to obedience for a prosperous outcome.

Isaiah 1:19-20
Highlights the blessings of obedience and the consequences of rebellion, paralleling Jeremiah's message to Zedekiah.