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 indicates the prophetic nature of the message, emphasizing that it originates from God. In the context of Jeremiah, the prophet often receives direct revelations from God, which he then communicates to the people. This underscores the authority and divine origin of the prophecy. The phrase "message from the LORD" is a common introduction in prophetic literature, signifying that what follows is not merely human opinion but divine instruction or warning.

an envoy has been sent to the nations:
The term "envoy" suggests a messenger or representative, possibly angelic or symbolic, tasked with delivering God's message to various nations. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel. The idea of sending an envoy implies a formal and urgent communication, often seen in ancient Near Eastern diplomatic practices. This also connects to other scriptures where God uses messengers to convey His will, such as in Isaiah 18:2 and Obadiah 1.

“Assemble yourselves to march against her!
The call to "assemble" is a summons for the nations to gather for a specific purpose, in this case, to march against a particular target. This reflects the common biblical motif of God using foreign nations as instruments of His judgment. The phrase suggests a military campaign, which was a frequent occurrence in the ancient world, where alliances were formed to confront common enemies. The "her" likely refers to Edom, as the broader context of Jeremiah 49 addresses the judgment against Edom.

Rise up for battle!”
This command to "rise up" is a call to action, urging immediate readiness and engagement in warfare. It highlights the urgency and seriousness of the impending conflict. In the biblical context, rising up for battle often involves divine empowerment or sanction, as seen in other instances where God commands His people or other nations to engage in battle (e.g., Judges 7:9). This phrase also foreshadows the fulfillment of God's judgment, as the nations are mobilized to execute His will.

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.