Jeremiah 39:17

Jeremiah 39:17 delivers a profound promise of divine protection to an individual during one of the most tumultuous periods in Israel's history. It states, "But I will deliver thee in that day, saith the LORD: and thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou [art] afraid." This verse highlights God's specific care for those who show faithfulness and compassion, even amidst widespread judgment and destruction.

Context

This verse is part of a special oracle given by the LORD to the prophet Jeremiah concerning Ebed-melech the Ethiopian. The preceding verses (Jeremiah 39:15-16) reveal that this message was delivered while Jeremiah was still confined in the court of the guard, during the final stages of Jerusalem's siege by the Babylonians. The city was on the brink of collapse, and King Zedekiah had already been captured. Ebed-melech was a eunuch, likely an official in King Zedekiah's palace, who had previously intervened to save Jeremiah's life when he was thrown into a miry dungeon by hostile officials (Jeremiah 38:7-13). This act of compassion and courage, performed when it was dangerous to help Jeremiah, did not go unnoticed by God.

Key Themes

• Divine Protection and Deliverance: The central theme is God's promise to deliver Ebed-melech from the imminent danger and the very people he feared. This promise stands in stark contrast to the fate of Jerusalem and its inhabitants, who faced exile and destruction. It demonstrates God's ability to provide individual salvation even amidst collective judgment.
• Reward for Righteousness and Kindness: Ebed-melech's compassionate act towards Jeremiah, a prophet of God, is explicitly acknowledged and rewarded. God remembers and honors those who show kindness and faith, particularly when it involves personal risk. This echoes the principle that God is not unrighteous to forget the work and labor of love.
• Overcoming Fear: The Lord directly addresses Ebed-melech's fear, assuring him that he would not fall into the hands of those he dreaded. This highlights God's intimate knowledge of His servants' hearts and His power to alleviate their deepest anxieties.
• God's Faithfulness to Individuals: Even as His judgment fell upon a rebellious nation, God remained faithful to His covenant with individuals who honored Him. Ebed-melech, a foreigner, serves as an example that God's favor is not limited by nationality but extended to those who demonstrate faith and obedience.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "deliver" is natsal (נצל), which often carries the nuance of being snatched away or rescued from danger, often by a superior power. It implies a forceful and decisive act of salvation. The phrase "men of whom thou art afraid" (מִן־יַד הָאֲנָשִׁים אֲשֶׁר־אַתָּה דֹּאֵג מִפְּנֵיהֶם) clearly indicates Ebed-melech's personal apprehension, likely concerning the Chaldean invaders or perhaps vengeful Judean officials who might accuse him of treason for siding with Jeremiah.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 39:17 offers timeless encouragement. It reminds us that:

1. God sees and remembers every act of kindness and faith, even those done in obscurity or at personal risk. Our service to others, especially to those who serve God, does not go unnoticed.
2. Even in times of widespread calamity or personal crisis, God can provide specific, individual protection and deliverance. Trusting in God's promises can alleviate our deepest fears, as He knows our anxieties and is able to rescue us.
3. Faithfulness to God and His servants yields divine favor. Ebed-melech's story encourages us to act with courage and compassion, confident that God will be our shield and reward. This promise of divine protection for the righteous is a cornerstone of biblical hope.