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
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.'
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
Unlock the full Jeremiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.