Old Testament
Jeremiah 38:3
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"The LORD also says: 'This city will definitely be handed over to the army of the king of Babylon, and he will capture it.'"
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Thus saith the LORD, This city shall surely be given into the hand of the king of Babylon’s army, which shall take it.
What Jeremiah 38:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God communicates a clear and unavoidable message through the prophet Jeremiah. He declares that the city, likely referring to Jerusalem, will be overtaken by the Babylonian army. This prophecy emphasizes the certainty of God's judgment due to the people's disobedience and unfaithfulness. The phrase 'shall surely be given' indicates that this event is predetermined and will happen as foretold. The context of this prophecy is crucial, as it reflects the dire situation of the Israelites who are facing the consequences of their actions. The impending capture serves as a warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the seriousness of turning away from God. This message is not just about destruction; it also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and events. The people are urged to recognize the reality of their circumstances and the need for humility before God.
How to apply Jeremiah 38:3 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of heeding God's warnings in our lives. Just as Jerusalem faced consequences for its actions, we too must reflect on our choices and their alignment with God's will. Seeking repentance and guidance can lead to restoration.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jeremiah's story: In the Dungeon (Jeremiah 38:1–13)
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Jeremiah
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Jeremiah 38:3
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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 38:3 mean?
Jeremiah 38:3 conveys God's message that Jerusalem will be captured by the Babylonian army. It emphasizes the certainty of this event as a consequence of the people's disobedience to God.
What is the significance of the phrase 'shall surely be given' in Jeremiah 38:3?
The phrase 'shall surely be given' indicates that the capture of the city is predetermined and unavoidable. It highlights God's sovereignty and the seriousness of the judgment against the Israelites.
How does Jeremiah 38:3 relate to the themes of divine judgment?
Jeremiah 38:3 illustrates divine judgment by showing that the city's fall is a direct result of the people's actions against God's commands. It underscores the reality that disobedience leads to serious consequences.
What can we learn from Jeremiah 38:3 today?
Jeremiah 38:3 teaches the importance of recognizing and responding to God's warnings. It encourages self-reflection on our choices and the need for repentance to avoid negative outcomes.
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