Chapter 758 of 1163

Jeremiah 50–51

This prophecy was given in the fourth year of Zedekiah’s reign, and Jeremiah sent it with Baruch’s brother, Seraiah, to be read publicly in Babylon (51:59–64). In Scripture, Babylon symbolizes man’s worldly system organized in opposition to God (Gen. 11:1–9; Rev. 17–18).

The Persians would come out of the north, defeat Babylon, and leave it desolate (50:3). Babylon had been God’s hammer (50:23), cup (51:7), and “battle-ax” (51:20–23) to bring His judgment to the sinful nations; but now her sins would be judged, particularly her brutal treatment of Israel (51:34–35).

Throughout this prophecy, God gives words of hope to His people still in captivity. Both Israel and Judah will be reunited and restored to their land (50:4–5). The scattered flock will be gathered (50:6–7, 17) and the sinful nation forgiven (50:19–20). They are guilty of sin, but God the Judge will plead their case (50:33–34). The forsaken wife will be reunited to her Husband (51:5), and the nation will be vindicated (51:10).

How will all of this happen? By the power of the God of Israel who is not like the dead idols of the heathen (51:15–19). His people must flee this evil system (51:6, 45–48) and separate themselves wholly to the Lord (2 Cor. 6:14–7:1; Rev. 18:4).

Babylon is still a desolation, and that ruin is a reminder that God is Governor of the nations and Judge of all the earth. Israel is still among the nations because her God is the Maker of all things (51:19).

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