Jeremiah 21:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 21:10
10 For I have set my face against this city for evil, and not for good, saith the LORD: it shall be given into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall burn it with fire.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 21 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, judgment, worship. 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 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 21:10
10 For I have set my face against this city for evil, and not for good, saith the LORD: it shall be given into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall burn it with fire.
Analysis
God declares He has 'set my face against this city for evil, and not for good.' The phrase 'set my face' indicates determined purpose - God's active opposition rather than passive withdrawal. This city will be given into Babylon's hand to be burned with fire. When God's patience exhausts, His opposition to sin becomes active judgment. There is no neutrality with God - blessing or curse, life or death (Deut 30:19).
Historical Context
This pronouncement came during the final siege of Jerusalem. Zedekiah's inquiry hoped for miraculous deliverance like in Hezekiah's day (Isa 37), but God's decree was fixed.
Reflection
- What does it mean when God 'sets His face' for evil rather than good?
- How do you recognize when God's patience has given way to active judgment?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Jeremiah 34:2, 38:3, 38:18, 39:8, 52:13
- References Lord: Ezekiel 15:7
- Evil: Jeremiah 44:11, 44:27, Amos 9:4
- Good: 2 Chronicles 36:19