Jeremiah 38:21

KJV

But if thou refuse to go forth, this [is] the word that the LORD hath shewed me:

KJV (with Strong's)

But if thou refuse {H3986} to go forth {H3318}, this is the word {H1697} that the LORD {H3068} hath shewed {H7200} me:

Complete Jewish Bible

But if you refuse to surrender, then this is the word ADONAI has shown me:

Berean Standard Bible

But if you refuse to surrender, this is the word that the LORD has shown me:

American Standard Version

But if thou refuse to go forth, this is the word that Jehovah hath showed me:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 38:21 presents King Zedekiah with a stark, divinely revealed choice: surrender to the Babylonians and spare Jerusalem, or refuse and face utter destruction. This verse encapsulates the prophet Jeremiah’s final, urgent plea, emphasizing that the message is not his own counsel but a direct word from the Lord, highlighting the gravity of obedience and the devastating consequences of rejecting God's clear will in a moment of national crisis.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 38:21 is situated within the climactic narrative of Jerusalem's final siege by Babylon, specifically during a secret consultation between King Zedekiah and the imprisoned prophet Jeremiah. The preceding verses, particularly [Jeremiah 38:17-20](/jeremiah/38-17 "Jeremiah 38:17-20 - Jeremiah's Counsel to Zedekiah"), detail Jeremiah's consistent message: surrender to the Babylonian princes will preserve the city and the king's life. Verse 21 then serves as the direct antithesis, outlining the catastrophic outcome should Zedekiah choose disobedience. This pivotal statement underscores the conditional nature of God's judgment and mercy, setting the stage for the tragic fulfillment of prophecy described in [Jeremiah 39](/jeremiah/39 "Jeremiah 39 - The Fall of Jerusalem").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At this point in Judah's history (circa 587 BC), Jerusalem is under relentless siege by Nebuchadnezzar's Babylonian army. The city is suffering from famine and disease, and morale is low. King Zedekiah, installed as a puppet king by Babylon after the first deportation, is a weak and indecisive ruler, caught between the divine word delivered by Jeremiah and the counsel of his pro-Egypt, anti-Babylonian officials who advocate resistance. Culturally, prophets like Jeremiah held a unique, often dangerous, position as God's direct spokespersons, frequently facing persecution for delivering unpopular divine messages. The fear of "falling away to the Chaldeans" (as mentioned in [Jeremiah 38:19](/jeremiah/38-19 "Jeremiah 38:19 - Zedekiah's Fear of the Jews")) reflects the intense social and political pressures on Zedekiah, where surrendering to an enemy was seen as a profound act of humiliation and betrayal, especially by those who had already deserted.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes present throughout the book of Jeremiah. It highlights the **gravity of obedience** to God's revealed will, presenting it as a matter of life and death for both the king and the nation. The phrase "this is the word that the LORD hath shewed me" emphatically asserts **divine revelation and prophetic authority**, underscoring that Jeremiah's message is not human political advice but an authoritative oracle from Yahweh. Furthermore, the verse implicitly warns of the **inevitability of consequences for stubbornness and disobedience**, a recurring motif in Jeremiah's prophecies against Judah's idolatry and rebellion (e.g., [Jeremiah 7:23-28](/jeremiah/7-23 "Jeremiah 7:23-28 - Call to Obedience and Consequences of Disobedience")). Zedekiah's refusal to heed this final warning ultimately leads to the city's destruction and his personal downfall, illustrating the severe outcomes of rejecting divine guidance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **refuse (Hebrew, _mâʼên'_):** From the root meaning "to be unwilling," this word signifies a deliberate and obstinate rejection. It's not a mere inability or misunderstanding, but a willful choice to resist or say "no" to a command or proposition. In this context, Zedekiah's refusal is a conscious act of defiance against the divine instruction, indicating a deep-seated unwillingness to humble himself and surrender.
* **go forth (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root means "to go out" or "to come forth." In the immediate context of the siege, "go forth" refers specifically to surrendering and going out to meet the Babylonian princes, as advised by Jeremiah in [Jeremiah 38:17](/jeremiah/38-17 "Jeremiah 38:17 - Jeremiah's Counsel to Zedekiah"). It implies an act of departure from the besieged city and submission to the enemy, which was the divinely ordained path to preservation.
* **word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This versatile and foundational Hebrew term encompasses not only a spoken "word" but also a "matter," "thing," "affair," "decree," or even a "deed." When applied to God, it often refers to His authoritative utterance, His revealed will, or His active intervention in history. Here, it emphasizes the divine origin and authoritative nature of Jeremiah's message; it is not merely human counsel but God's definitive declaration concerning Zedekiah's fate and Jerusalem's future.
* **shewed (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to see," "to perceive," or "to reveal." When God "shows" something to a prophet, it implies a direct, divine revelation—God has caused the prophet to "see" or understand a truth that originates from Him. This term underscores the authenticity and authority of Jeremiah's prophecy, confirming that his message is a direct, divinely imparted insight, leaving no room for Zedekiah to doubt its source or validity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But if thou refuse to go forth":** This clause presents the condition for the dire consequences. "Refuse" (mâʼên) highlights Zedekiah's deliberate and obstinate unwillingness to comply with God's command to "go forth" (yâtsâʼ), meaning to surrender to the Babylonian officials. It emphasizes that the king's impending fate is a direct result of his own willful disobedience, not arbitrary divine judgment.
* **"this [is] the word that the LORD hath shewed me":** This declarative statement asserts the divine origin and authority of Jeremiah's message. The prophet is not offering his own political advice or personal opinion, but relaying a direct "word" (dâbâr)—a definitive decree or revelation—that the "LORD" (Yᵉhôvâh), the covenant God of Israel, "hath shewed" (râʼâh) him. This phrase functions as a solemn validation of the prophecy, making Zedekiah's refusal an act of rebellion against God Himself.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 38:21 employs several potent literary devices. **Conditional Statement** is central, as the verse presents a clear "if...then" scenario, though the "then" is implied and elaborated upon in subsequent verses. This structure highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship between Zedekiah's choice and the ensuing consequences. There is also strong **Foreshadowing**, as Jeremiah's warning directly predicts the impending doom of Jerusalem and Zedekiah's capture if he disobeys, which is tragically fulfilled in [Jeremiah 39](/jeremiah/39 "Jeremiah 39 - The Fall of Jerusalem"). The phrase "the word that the LORD hath shewed me" functions as a **Divine Oracle Formula**, lending immense authority and gravitas to Jeremiah's pronouncement. It serves to authenticate the message as originating from God, not merely from human wisdom or political insight, thereby amplifying the king's responsibility and the severity of his potential refusal. Finally, there is a clear **Contrast** between the path of life (surrender) and the path of destruction (refusal), a recurring motif in biblical wisdom literature and prophetic warnings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 38:21 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of divine sovereignty intersecting with human free will, and the severe consequences of rejecting God's revealed will. God, through His prophet, offers a clear path to preservation, but it requires humility and obedience—qualities Zedekiah tragically lacks. The "word that the LORD hath shewed me" underscores God's active involvement in human history, His desire to communicate His will, and the authoritative nature of prophetic revelation. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God's warnings are not idle threats but expressions of His justice and His desire for His people to choose life. The ultimate destruction of Jerusalem, despite this clear warning, highlights the tragic reality of persistent disobedience and its inevitable outcomes.

* [Deuteronomy 30:19](/deuteronomy/30-19 "Deuteronomy 30:19 - Choose Life") - "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."
* [Proverbs 1:24-28](/proverbs/1-24 "Proverbs 1:24-28 - Wisdom's Rejection") - "Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded... Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me."
* [Isaiah 30:15](/isaiah/30-15 "Isaiah 30:15 - In Repentance and Rest is Your Salvation") - "For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 38:21 stands as a timeless beacon, illuminating the profound importance of heeding divine warnings and embracing the path of obedience, even when it appears counterintuitive or costly. Just as King Zedekiah faced a moment of ultimate decision that would determine the fate of his kingdom and his own life, we too are often presented with clear choices that test our trust in God's wisdom over our own fears or worldly counsel. This verse calls us to cultivate a posture of humility and responsiveness to God's voice, whether it comes through the clear commands of Scripture, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, or the wise counsel of godly mentors. It reminds us that God's ways are always for our ultimate good, even when they demand surrender, sacrifice, or a radical shift in perspective. The tragic outcome of Zedekiah's refusal serves as a sober reminder that persistent disobedience to God's clear instructions inevitably leads to undesirable consequences, both individually and collectively.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might God be calling me to "go forth" in a way that feels counter-intuitive or requires surrender?**
* **How do I discern between God's "word" and my own fears or the counsel of the world?**
* **What are the potential consequences of refusing to obey a clear divine instruction in my life right now?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater willingness to trust and obey God, even when the path is difficult or unpopular?**

### FAQ
**What was King Zedekiah's dilemma in Jeremiah 38:21?**

Answer: King Zedekiah was caught in a profound dilemma. On one hand, he sought divine guidance from Jeremiah, knowing the prophet spoke for the Lord. On the other hand, he was terrified of his own officials and the Jewish deserters who had already gone over to the Babylonians. Jeremiah's message was to surrender to the Babylonians, which Zedekiah feared would lead to humiliation, torture, and death at the hands of the very people he feared. His dilemma was choosing between God's unpopular, humbling command that promised preservation, and the popular, prideful resistance that promised destruction. This fear is explicitly mentioned in [Jeremiah 38:19](/jeremiah/38-19 "Jeremiah 38:19 - Zedekiah's Fear of the Jews").

**Why was Jeremiah's message so unpopular, and why did Zedekiah refuse to obey?**

Answer: Jeremiah's message of surrender was deeply unpopular because it went against the prevailing nationalistic and pro-Egyptian sentiment among Judah's leaders and people. They believed God would miraculously deliver Jerusalem, as He had in the past (e.g., [2 Kings 19:35](/2_kings/19-35 "2 Kings 19:35 - The Angel of the Lord Destroys the Assyrians")). Surrender was seen as an act of cowardice, betrayal, and a lack of faith in God's power. Zedekiah's refusal stemmed primarily from fear—fear of his officials, fear of public humiliation, and fear of the Jewish deserters who might mock and mistreat him (as detailed in [Jeremiah 38:19-20](/jeremiah/38-19 "Jeremiah 38:19-20 - Zedekiah's Fear and Jeremiah's Reassurance")). He prioritized human opinion and immediate comfort over divine command, leading to tragic consequences for himself and the city.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 38:21, with its stark warning of consequences for refusing God's word, finds its ultimate fulfillment and reversal in Jesus Christ. While Zedekiah refused to "go forth" in obedience, leading to destruction, Jesus willingly "went forth" in perfect obedience to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross (as described in [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). The "word that the LORD hath shewed me" in Jeremiah points to the authoritative, life-giving "Word" who became flesh in Jesus (as proclaimed in [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Humanity, like Zedekiah, often refuses God's call to surrender to His authority and embrace His path of salvation. Yet, in Christ, God does not merely warn of judgment; He provides the means of escape. Through Christ's sacrificial obedience, those who humble themselves and "go forth" in faith to Him find not destruction, but eternal life and reconciliation with God (as promised in [Romans 5:19](/romans/5-19 "Romans 5:19 - Obedience of Christ")). Thus, the choice presented to Zedekiah foreshadows the ultimate choice presented to all humanity: to refuse the saving "word" of Christ and face judgment, or to embrace Him in obedient faith and receive the blessings of God's covenant.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 2:4

For [they are] impudent children and stiffhearted. I do send thee unto them; and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD.

Ezekiel 2:5

And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they [are] a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.

Ezekiel 2:7

And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they [are] most rebellious.

Jeremiah 15:19

Therefore thus saith the LORD, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, [and] thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them.

Jeremiah 15:21

And I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible.

Jeremiah 5:3

O LORD, [are] not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, [but] they have refused to receive correction: they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return.

Exodus 16:28

And the LORD said unto Moses, How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my laws?