Jeremiah 39:16 Meaning and Explanation
“Go and speak to Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring my words upon this city for evil, and not for good; and they shall be accomplished in that day before thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God commands Jeremiah to tell Ebed-melech that the Lord's words of judgment for Jerusalem will be accomplished on that very day.
The Context of Jeremiah 39:16
God confirms to Ebed-melech that Jerusalem's judgment will be accomplished.
What Does Jeremiah 39:16 Mean?
The message to Ebed-melech is delivered through Jeremiah even though the prophet is in prison and the city is under siege. This demonstrates the continued operation of prophecy and God's communication despite physical circumstances and national catastrophe. God acknowledges that His words—spoken through Jeremiah for decades—are about to be visibly fulfilled in Jerusalem's destruction.
The promise that these words shall be 'accomplished in that day before thee' means Ebed-melech will personally witness the fulfillment of God's judgment. This assures him that despite the chaos of the moment, God's word is reliable and true. In a world where Jerusalem seems to be falling apart at the hands of human power, God's word proves more powerful than any military force.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 39:16
What does Jeremiah 39:16 mean?
God commands Jeremiah to tell Ebed-melech that the Lord's words of judgment for Jerusalem will be accomplished on that very day.
What is the context of Jeremiah 39:16?
God confirms to Ebed-melech that Jerusalem's judgment will be accomplished.