Jeremiah 39:2

And on the ninth day of the fourth month of Zedekiah's eleventh year, the city was breached.

Study Bible

And on the ninth day of the fourth month
This date corresponds to the Hebrew month of Tammuz, which falls around June or July in the Gregorian calendar. The specific mention of the ninth day highlights the precision of the biblical record, emphasizing the historical accuracy of the events described. This date marks a significant moment in the history of Jerusalem, as it was the culmination of a long siege by the Babylonians.

of Zedekiah’s eleventh year
Zedekiah was the last king of Judah, reigning from 597 to 586 BC. His reign was marked by political instability and rebellion against Babylonian rule. The eleventh year of his reign is significant because it marks the end of the Davidic line of kings ruling in Jerusalem until the coming of Christ, who is often seen as the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant. Zedekiah's reign ended with the fall of Jerusalem, a pivotal event in Jewish history.

the city was breached
The breaching of Jerusalem's walls was a catastrophic event for the people of Judah. It signified the end of the city's defenses and the beginning of its destruction. This breach was the result of a prolonged siege by Nebuchadnezzar's army, which had begun in the ninth year of Zedekiah's reign. The fall of Jerusalem fulfilled the prophecies of Jeremiah and other prophets who had warned of the consequences of the nation's disobedience to God. The breaching of the city can also be seen as a type of Christ's suffering, as He was "breached" or pierced for our transgressions, bringing about spiritual deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zedekiah
The last king of Judah, whose reign ended with the Babylonian conquest. His reign is marked by disobedience to God and reliance on political alliances rather than divine guidance.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, significant as the spiritual and political center of the Jewish people. Its fall represents a pivotal moment of judgment and exile.

3. Babylonian Siege
The event where the Babylonian army, led by King Nebuchadnezzar, besieged Jerusalem, leading to its eventual breach and destruction.

4. The Eleventh Year
This marks the final year of Zedekiah's reign, symbolizing the culmination of Judah's disobedience and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings.

5. The Ninth Day of the Fourth Month
A specific date that underscores the historical accuracy and significance of the event, marking a moment of divine judgment.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The fall of Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands. It calls believers to examine their own lives for areas of disobedience and to seek repentance.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite the chaos and destruction, God's sovereignty is evident. He is in control of history and uses even difficult circumstances to fulfill His purposes.

The Importance of Heeding Prophetic Warnings
The people of Judah ignored the warnings of prophets like Jeremiah. This teaches the importance of listening to God's Word and being responsive to His guidance.

Hope Amidst Judgment
While the fall of Jerusalem is a moment of judgment, it also sets the stage for future restoration and hope, as seen in later prophecies of return and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fall of Jerusalem in Jeremiah 39:2 illustrate the consequences of ignoring God's warnings? Reflect on a time when you experienced consequences for not heeding divine guidance.

2. In what ways does the historical context of Jerusalem's fall enhance your understanding of God's sovereignty? How can this perspective influence your response to current events in your life?

3. Compare the account of Jerusalem's fall in Jeremiah 39:2 with 2 Kings 25:3-4. What additional insights do you gain about the event and its significance?

4. How can the themes of judgment and hope in Jeremiah 39:2 encourage you in your personal walk with God, especially during challenging times?

5. Reflect on the role of prophetic voices in your life today. How can you better discern and respond to God's guidance through Scripture and spiritual leaders?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 25:3-4
Provides a parallel account of the fall of Jerusalem, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's warnings through the prophets.

Lamentations 2:9
Describes the aftermath of Jerusalem's fall, highlighting the loss and despair experienced by the people.

Ezekiel 24:1-2
Offers a prophetic perspective on the siege, illustrating God's sovereignty and the inevitability of His judgment.

Jeremiah 21:3-7
Contains Jeremiah's prophecy to Zedekiah, warning of the consequences of disobedience and the certainty of Babylonian victory.