Jeremiah 6:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 6:21
21 Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will lay stumblingblocks before this people, and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbour and his friend shall perish.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 6 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, obedience, righteousness. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 6:21
21 Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will lay stumblingblocks before this people, and the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbour and his friend shall perish.
Analysis
God promises to 'lay stumblingblocks before this people' so that comprehensive judgment falls: 'the fathers and the sons together shall fall upon them; the neighbour and his friend shall perish.' The 'stumblingblocks' may be God actively blinding them (judicial hardening) or the obstacles inherent in their sin-chosen path. The inclusiveness of the judgment ('fathers and sons,' 'neighbour and friend') echoes verse 11, showing no exemptions based on age or relationship. This demonstrates that God's judgment, though patient in coming, is thorough in execution. The concept of God laying stumblingblocks reflects His sovereignty even over the means by which judgment comes.
Historical Context
The Babylonian siege resulted in widespread death from warfare, famine, and disease, affecting all segments of society without discrimination based on age or social relationships.
Reflection
- How do we understand God's active role in judgment (laying stumblingblocks) while maintaining His moral perfection?
- What does the comprehensive nature of judgment teach about sin's corporate dimensions?
- How should the certainty of thorough judgment affect our urgency in evangelism and discipleship?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 13:16
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 8:14, Ezekiel 3:20