Old Testament

Jeremiah 39:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, God instructs a messenger to deliver a message to Ebedmelech, an Ethiopian who had shown kindness to the prophet Jeremiah.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

Go tell Ebedmelech the Ethiopian: This is what the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'I am about to bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they will be fulfilled on that day before you.'

KJVKing James Version

Go and speak to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they shall be accomplished in that day before thee.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God instructs a messenger to deliver a message to Ebedmelech, an Ethiopian who had shown kindness to the prophet Jeremiah. The message reveals that God is about to bring judgment upon the city of Jerusalem, indicating that the consequences of the people's actions will be severe. This judgment is described as 'evil' rather than 'good,' highlighting the seriousness of the situation. God emphasizes that His words will come to pass on that very day, underscoring the certainty of His prophecy. Ebedmelech, who had previously helped Jeremiah, is reminded that even in the midst of impending doom, God's communication is clear and direct. This moment serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His plans, regardless of human circumstances.

How to apply Jeremiah 39:16 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the seriousness of our actions and their consequences. It reminds us that God communicates His plans clearly, and we should be attentive to His words. Even in difficult times, we can find hope by trusting in God's ultimate purpose and sovereignty.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 39:16 mean?

Jeremiah 39:16 conveys God's message to Ebedmelech, indicating that judgment is coming to Jerusalem. It emphasizes that God's words will be fulfilled, highlighting the seriousness of the city's situation.

What is the significance of Ebedmelech in Jeremiah 39:16?

Ebedmelech is significant because he showed kindness to Jeremiah, and God acknowledges him by delivering a specific message. This illustrates that even those who help God's messengers are recognized in His plans.

What does 'evil, and not for good' mean in Jeremiah 39:16?

The phrase 'evil, and not for good' indicates that the impending judgment on Jerusalem will bring severe consequences due to the people's actions. It underscores the gravity of the situation and the seriousness of God's warning.

What does this verse reveal about God's communication?

This verse shows that God communicates His plans clearly and directly, even in times of impending doom. It reassures that God's prophecies are certain and will come to pass.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah

The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.

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