Jeremiah 15:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 15:20
20 And I will make thee unto this people a fenced brasen wall: and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the LORD.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 15 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of love, sacrifice, wisdom. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 15:20
20 And I will make thee unto this people a fenced brasen wall: and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the LORD.
Analysis
Jeremiah's anguish deepens: 'Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound incurable, which refuseth to be healed? wilt thou be altogether unto me as a liar, and as waters that fail?' The questions express profound suffering: perpetual pain, incurable wounds, refusal of healing. The bold accusation—will God be 'as a liar, and as waters that fail'—protests apparent unfulfillment of God's promises of protection. This represents the darkest point of Jeremiah's complaint, where circumstances seem to contradict God's character. The 'waters that fail' metaphor describes wadis (intermittent streams) that dry up when most needed. Jeremiah feels God has proven unreliable like a seasonal stream.
Historical Context
Throughout his ministry, Jeremiah suffered persecution while his prophecies seemed slow to fulfill. This created crisis of faith: was God truly faithful? Would protection promised actually come?
Reflection
- How do we understand the propriety of such bold complaints to God in Scripture?
- What does the 'failing waters' metaphor teach about disappointment with God during suffering?
- How should believers process times when God's promises seem unfulfilled?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 1:8, Psalms 46:7, 46:11, 2 Timothy 4:22
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 6:27, Isaiah 41:10, Ezekiel 3:9