Jeremiah 47:7 - A Commentary

Verse: "How can it be quiet, seeing the Lord hath given it a charge against Ashkelon, and against the sea shore? there hath he appointed it."

Overview

The verse Jeremiah 47:7 serves as a powerful proclamation concerning the upcoming destruction and judgment that will befall the Philistines, particularly exemplified through Ashkelon. This commentary incorporates insights from esteemed public domain theologians such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, which enrich our understanding of this prophetic message.

Contextual Background

This prophecy forms part of a series of oracles against foreign nations that Jeremiah delivered. During this time, the Philistines were a significant threat to Israel, and their strongholds, including Ashkelon, were sites of impending divine judgment. Understanding the cultural and historical context of the Philistines is essential for appreciating the text's impact.

Insight from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the inevitability of the Philistines' downfall. He notes:

• Divine Appointment: God has a plan for all nations, and in this case, He has specifically appointed judgment against Ashkelon.
• The Nature of the Charge: The phrase "given it a charge" indicates a divine command that cannot be ignored. The Philistines cannot escape their fate, as it is ordained by the Almighty.
• Symbolism of Peace: Henry further explains that the question "How can it be quiet?" suggests an inability for peace in the face of divine judgment. The Philistines' peace is disrupted by God's active engagement against them.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides additional clarity on the judgment against Ashkelon, focusing on:

• Historical Significance: Ashkelon was one of the principal cities of the Philistines, and its downfall would symbolize a larger defeat of the Philistine power.
• The Role of God’s Sovereignty: Barnes highlights the sovereignty of God in controlling nations. The prophetic utterance signifies how God's providence prevails even amidst geopolitical turmoil.
• Implications for Israel: The message would serve as both a warning and a comfort to the Israelites, who would witness the judgment of their enemies, reinforcing their faith in God’s protection.

Analysis from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke's exegesis adds depth through a linguistical and theological lens:

• Hebrew Language Insights: Clarke unpacks the Hebrew terms used, illustrating the intensity and urgency of the message against Ashkelon.
• Moral and Ethical Dimensions: He discusses the moral implications of divine justice, asserting that the Philistines, having opposed God's people, face inevitable judgment.
• Theatrical Imagery: Clarke indicates how the verse metaphorically depicts the sea's unrest in response to divine wrath, personifying nature as reflective of God's judgment.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Jeremiah 47:7 illustrates several significant themes:

• Divine Justice: The text elucidates the principle of divine justice—God's righteousness in punishing nations that stand against Him and His people.
• God's Sovereignty: A reaffirmation that God controls the destinies of nations, and their actions are subject to His greater plan.
• Hope for the Faithful: For the Israelites, this prophecy reassures them of their eventual restoration as their enemies are defeated in judgment.

Application for Today’s Believers

For modern pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, Jeremiah 47:7 offers vital lessons:

• Trust in God’s Timing: Just as the Philistines were accountable for their actions, contemporary believers are reminded to trust in God’s timing for justice and restoration in a world rife with conflict.
• Awareness of God’s Sovereignty: Understanding that God is sovereign over current events encourages believers to live righteously and remain hopeful amidst adversity.
• The Necessity of Repentance: The message serves as a reminder of the need for repentance both personally and collectively, urging believers to seek God’s favor rather than face divine judgment.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 47:7 stands as a sober reminder of God’s unyielding justice against nations that oppose Him. By exploring the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we gain a comprehensive understanding of this passage's historical, theological, and practical significance. It calls believers back to reliance on God’s sovereignty and justice, ensuring that even in times of distress, His plans prevail.