Old Testament
Jeremiah 1:15
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I am about to summon all the ruling families of the northern kingdoms," declares the LORD. "They will come and set up their thrones right at the entrance of Jerusalem's gates, against all its surrounding walls, and against every city in Judah.
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For, lo, I will call all the families of the kingdoms of the north, saith the LORD; and they shall come, and they shall set every one his throne at the entering of the gates of Jerusalem, and against all the walls thereof round about, and against all the cities of Judah.
What Jeremiah 1:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is announcing a significant judgment against Jerusalem and Judah. He declares that He will summon the ruling families from the northern kingdoms, which likely refers to various nations that were enemies of Israel. These rulers will come and establish their thrones at the gates of Jerusalem, symbolizing their authority and control over the city. This imagery indicates a siege or invasion, where the enemies will surround Jerusalem, threatening its safety and security. The mention of the walls and cities of Judah emphasizes the totality of the impending destruction. This message serves as a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of their disobedience and the seriousness of their situation. It highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to use foreign powers to fulfill His purposes, including judgment against His own people for their unfaithfulness.
How to apply Jeremiah 1:15 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of turning away from God. It encourages us to remain faithful and obedient, understanding that our actions have consequences. We should seek to align our lives with God's will to avoid judgment and experience His protection.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: The Call of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:1–19)
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Jeremiah
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 1:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 1:15 mean for Jerusalem?
Jeremiah 1:15 conveys God's warning of impending judgment against Jerusalem and Judah. It signifies that God will summon rulers from northern kingdoms to invade and surround the city, indicating a loss of sovereignty and protection due to the people's disobedience. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
Who are the 'ruling families of the northern kingdoms'?
The 'ruling families of the northern kingdoms' likely refer to various nations and tribes that were historically enemies of Israel, such as the Assyrians and Babylonians. These powers were known for their military strength and were used by God as instruments of judgment against His people for their unfaithfulness and idolatry.
What is the significance of thrones at Jerusalem's gates?
The imagery of thrones being set up at Jerusalem's gates symbolizes the authority and control that the invading rulers will have over the city. It represents a complete takeover, where the enemies will not only surround Jerusalem but also establish their dominance, highlighting the seriousness of the siege and the consequences of Judah's disobedience.
How does this verse relate to God's sovereignty?
Jeremiah 1:15 illustrates God's sovereignty by showing that He has the power to summon foreign nations to fulfill His purposes, including judgment against His own people. It emphasizes that God is in control of history and uses various means, including adversaries, to bring about His will, reminding us that no one is beyond His authority.
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