Jeremiah 49:14

I have heard a message from the LORD; an envoy has been sent to the nations: "Assemble yourselves to march against her! Rise up for battle!"

Study Bible

I have heard a message from the LORD
This phrase underscores the prophetic authority of Jeremiah. The Hebrew word for "message" is "שְׁמוּעָה" (shemu'ah), which can also mean "report" or "announcement." It signifies a divine revelation, emphasizing that the words are not Jeremiah's own but are directly from God. This highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries who convey God's will to the people. In a historical context, this reflects the period when prophets were pivotal in guiding Israel, often delivering messages of warning or judgment.

an envoy has been sent to the nations
The term "envoy" in Hebrew is "צִיר" (tsir), which can mean a messenger or ambassador. This suggests a formal and authoritative communication, indicating the seriousness of the message. The "nations" refers to the surrounding peoples and kingdoms, emphasizing the universal scope of God's sovereignty. Historically, this reflects the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East, where nations were often in conflict, and messages of war or alliance were common.

Assemble yourselves to march against her!
The call to "assemble" is a rallying cry for action, derived from the Hebrew "קָבַץ" (qavats), meaning to gather or collect. This is a command for unity and preparation for battle. The phrase "march against her" indicates a directed military action, with "her" likely referring to Edom, as the broader context of Jeremiah 49 addresses the judgment against Edom. This reflects the historical enmity between Israel and Edom, rooted in their ancestral ties through Esau and Jacob.

Rise up for battle!
The command to "rise up" is from the Hebrew "קוּם" (qum), which means to stand or arise. It conveys urgency and readiness, a call to arms. The phrase "for battle" underscores the impending conflict and the seriousness of the situation. In a scriptural context, this reflects the recurring theme of divine judgment executed through warfare, a common motif in the prophetic literature where God uses nations as instruments of His justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment of Judah and the surrounding nations. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah.

2. Edom
A nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. Edom is often depicted as an adversary of Israel and is the subject of judgment in this passage.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His will and judgment through the prophets.

4. Envoy
A messenger sent to deliver a message. In this context, it refers to a divine messenger sent to the nations to rally them against Edom.

5. Nations
Refers to the surrounding peoples and kingdoms that are called to rise up against Edom as part of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is sovereign over all nations and peoples. His judgments are just and are executed according to His divine will and purpose.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Jeremiah serve as God's mouthpieces, delivering messages of warning and judgment. Their role is crucial in communicating God's plans to His people and the nations.

The Consequences of Pride and Hostility
Edom's judgment serves as a warning against pride and hostility towards God's people. Nations and individuals are accountable for their actions against God's chosen.

The Call to Spiritual Readiness
Just as the nations were called to rise up for battle, believers are called to be spiritually ready and vigilant, understanding the times and God's purposes.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
God's judgment against Edom fulfills His promises to protect and vindicate His people. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the message against Edom in Jeremiah 49:14 reflect God's justice and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we see the role of a prophet like Jeremiah as relevant to our lives today?

3. How does the judgment of Edom serve as a warning against pride and hostility in our own lives?

4. What does it mean to be spiritually ready and vigilant in the context of God's plans and purposes?

5. How can we find assurance in God's faithfulness to His promises, as seen in His dealings with Edom and Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Obadiah 1:1
This verse parallels Jeremiah 49:14, as it also speaks of a message against Edom, highlighting the consistency of God's judgment against this nation.

Isaiah 34:1-8
This passage describes God's judgment on the nations, including Edom, emphasizing the theme of divine retribution.

Psalm 137:7
This verse recalls Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, providing historical context for why Edom is judged.