Study Questions:

1. What was the fate of Pharaoh Necho in the Battle of Carchemish against Babylon? (Jeremiah 46:2)

2. What would Nebuchadnezzar do to Egypt? (Jeremiah 46:13)

3. Why was Jacob, though scattered, told not to fear? (Jeremiah 46:28)

Commentary and Reflection:

Jeremiah 46:1 states: “The word of the Lord which came to Jeremiah the prophet against the nations.” Regarding this, the Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary notes:

“This verse introduces a new section of the book of Jeremiah. Chapters 46–51 contain a series of ten poetic declarations about various nations and tribes: Egypt (ch. 46), the Philistines (ch. 47), Moab (ch. 48), the Ammonites (ch. 49:1–6), Edom (ch. 49:7–22), Damascus (ch. 49:23–27), Kedar (ch. 49:28, 29), Hazor (ch. 49:30–33), Elam (ch. 49:34–39), and Babylon (chs. 50:1–51:58). The Heb. ‘al, here translated “against,” is probably better understood as “concerning,” for although these prophecies portray many divine judgments, they also promise restoration (see chs. 48:47; 49:6, 39).” (SDA Bible Commentary, Jeremiah 46:1)

Amid the geopolitical tensions of the time, we see a glimpse of the Lord fulfilling His purpose for His people through the nations.

After Assyria’s decline left a power vacuum, Egypt sought to establish dominance. In this strategic struggle, those left in Judah after the exile placed their bets on Egypt, contrary to the Lord’s instructions.

This is the context of Jeremiah’s messages in chapter 46 regarding Egypt. First, it predicts Egypt’s defeat at the Battle of Carchemish, a key Babylonian city. Second, it foretells Babylon’s conquest of Egypt itself.

All of this would serve as confirmation of the Lord’s message through Jeremiah: Judah was to accept Babylonian captivity as divine judgment without resistance. If they did so, it would result in blessing and restoration.

The final verses of chapter 46 offer words of assurance and comfort to God’s scattered people among the nations.

Chapter 47 is a prophecy against the Philistines in Gaza and Ashkelon, two Philistine cities on the Mediterranean coast. This region, frequently in the news today, was once occupied by the Philistines, a pagan ethnicity likely originating from the western Mediterranean. They are known as one of the “Sea Peoples.”

The prophecy includes the Philistines, with the message that they, too, would not escape the northern invasion.

Through the pages of God’s Word, we can discern the inevitability of His judgments. Politicians and media may interpret geopolitical events as they please, but above them is the Lord and His purpose. The Lord has His instruments and methods, and His plan will be fulfilled in His time, according to His Word.

“And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” (2 Peter 1:19)

May you have a very blessed day.