Jeremiah 21:6

Jeremiah 21:6 delivers a severe prophetic declaration from the Lord concerning the inhabitants of Jerusalem. It details a specific and devastating form of judgment that God Himself will inflict: a "great pestilence" that will strike down both people and animals within the city walls.

Context

This verse is part of a direct prophecy given by God through Jeremiah to King Zedekiah of Judah. At this time, Jerusalem was under siege by the Babylonian army led by King Nebuchadnezzar (around 588-586 BC). King Zedekiah had sent messengers to Jeremiah, asking him to inquire of the Lord if God would miraculously intervene and deliver Jerusalem from the Babylonians, similar to past deliverances. However, God's response through Jeremiah was one of resolute judgment, not salvation. Instead of fighting for Jerusalem, God declared He would fight against it, delivering the city into the hands of its enemies. This verse specifies one of the dreadful means of that judgment: a widespread plague.

Key Themes

• Divine Judgment: The verse clearly states, "I will smite the inhabitants," emphasizing God's direct and active role in bringing calamity upon Jerusalem. This judgment is a consequence of the nation's long-standing rebellion, idolatry, and rejection of God's previous warnings.
• Severity and Scope of Punishment: The judgment is comprehensive, affecting "both man and beast," indicating that the devastation will be total and indiscriminate within the city. The phrase "great pestilence" underscores the magnitude of the impending death.
• Pestilence as a Divine Instrument: Throughout the Old Testament, pestilence (plague), famine, and the sword are frequently presented as the three primary scourges God uses to execute judgment upon disobedient nations or individuals. This prophecy reaffirms that pattern, as Jeremiah 14:12 also speaks of sword, famine, and pestilence.
• Irreversible Consequences: At this point in Judah's history, the time for repentance leading to deliverance from the immediate siege had passed. The prophecy indicates a fixed and unavoidable outcome due to persistent disobedience, reflecting warnings given as far back as Deuteronomy 28:21.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "pestilence" is deber (דֶּבֶר), which refers to a plague, murrain, or epidemic disease. It is often depicted as an instrument of divine wrath, bringing widespread death and destruction. Its association with "man and beast" highlights the indiscriminate nature of such a plague, affecting all living things within the targeted area.

Practical Application

Jeremiah 21:6 serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness and justice. While we live under the new covenant of grace through Christ, this verse underscores timeless principles:

• Consequences of Disobedience: Persistent rebellion against God's revealed will ultimately leads to severe consequences. God is sovereign over all circumstances, including natural disasters and diseases, and can use them to accomplish His purposes.
• Seriousness of Sin: The drastic measures described here illustrate the gravity with which God views sin and idolatry. It is a stark warning against spiritual complacency and turning away from divine truth.
• Importance of Heeding Warnings: The people of Judah had received numerous warnings through prophets like Jeremiah. This prophecy shows the tragic outcome when such warnings are ignored. It encourages us to take God's Word seriously and to respond with repentance and obedience when challenged.
• God's Character: Even in judgment, God reveals aspects of His character—His justice, His faithfulness to His covenant (which included curses for disobedience), and His ultimate control over history. Understanding these aspects helps us to better appreciate His mercy and grace, which He offers to those who turn from their wicked ways and live.