Jeremiah 15:20

Commentary on Jeremiah 15:20 (KJV)

Jeremiah 15:20 is a powerful verse of divine reassurance and empowerment given to the prophet Jeremiah, who often faced profound discouragement and opposition. It encapsulates God's unwavering commitment to His chosen servant.

Context

This verse comes at a point in Jeremiah's ministry where he is deeply distressed. He has just lamented his birth and the constant strife he endures (Jeremiah 15:10), feeling isolated and persecuted because of his unpopular message of impending judgment on Judah. He even questions God's faithfulness (Jeremiah 15:18). In response to Jeremiah's despair, the Lord reaffirms His call and provides a profound promise of protection and strength, echoing the initial commission found in Jeremiah 1:18-19. This divine response is crucial for Jeremiah to continue his difficult prophetic work.

Key Themes

• Divine Empowerment and Protection: God promises to transform Jeremiah into "a fenced brasen wall." This vivid metaphor signifies impregnable strength and resilience. It's not Jeremiah's inherent strength, but God's power working through him, making him unyielding against all opposition.
• Unwavering Presence of God: The core of the promise lies in "for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the LORD." God's active and personal presence is the ultimate guarantee of Jeremiah's safety and success. This divine companionship ensures that no enemy can ultimately prevail against God's chosen one.
• Perseverance in the Face of Opposition: Jeremiah was called to deliver a message that often brought him into direct conflict with the kings, priests, and people of Judah. This verse assures him that despite the intense "fight against thee," his adversaries "shall not prevail against thee." It’s a divine mandate to stand firm, regardless of the cost.
• God's Faithfulness to His Call: Even when His servant is weak or discouraged, God remains faithful to the purpose for which He called him. He provides the necessary strength and protection to complete the mission.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "fenced brasen wall" (Hebrew: חוֹמַת נְחֹשֶׁת - chomat něchoshet) is particularly impactful. Chomat means 'wall', and něchoshet refers to 'copper' or 'bronze'. In ancient times, bronze was a metal known for its extreme hardness, durability, and resistance to impact. A "brazen wall" would be considered an impenetrable fortress, signifying absolute strength and invincibility against any attack. This imagery powerfully conveys the impenetrable spiritual defense God would provide Jeremiah.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 15:20 offers profound encouragement to believers today who face opposition for their faith or for standing for biblical truth.

• Reliance on God's Strength: We are reminded that our strength comes not from ourselves, but from God. When we feel overwhelmed or discouraged, we can find assurance in God's promise to be our "fenced brasen wall."
• Courage in Adversity: This verse encourages us to speak truth and live according to God's will, even when it is unpopular or brings persecution. Just as Jeremiah faced a hostile populace, believers may face societal pressure, but God promises that those who fight against His purposes "shall not prevail."
• God's Unfailing Presence: The ultimate comfort is knowing that God is "with thee." This echoes promises like Isaiah 41:10 and Matthew 28:20, assuring us that His presence guarantees our ultimate safety and deliverance in His will. We are called to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.