Understanding Jeremiah 50:17

Verse: "Israel is a scattered sheep; the lions have driven him away: first the king of Assyria hath devoured him; and last this Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon hath broken his bones." (Jeremiah 50:17)

Summary of Meaning

This verse encapsulates the plight of Israel, depicted metaphorically as a 'scattered sheep.' It illustrates the profound oppression and displacement faced by the nation, emphasizing the devastating consequences of foreign invasions led by powerful empires like Assyria and Babylon.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the metaphor of Israel as a flock, indicating the vulnerability and disarray caused by their enemies. The reference to the lions illustrates the fierce and relentless nature of Assyrian and Babylonian oppression. Henry also highlights that this scattering was a judgment from God due to Israel's disobedience.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes provides a historical context, noting that the 'king of Assyria' represents the initial conquerors of Israel, leading to their captivity. He elaborates that Nebuchadnezzar symbolizes the final act of destruction and exile that left Israel fragmented and devastated.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke draws attention to the significance of the term 'broken bones,' which denotes a complete dismemberment of the Israelite society and its structure. His interpretation reinforces the idea that not just physical captivity but spiritual desolation ensued.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 50:17 can be cross-referenced with several scriptures that elucidate the themes of scattering, judgment, and restoration:

• Psalm 44:11: "Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen."
• Isaiah 53:6: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all."
• Ezekiel 34:5: "And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered."
• Matthew 9:36: "But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd."
• Luke 15:4: "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?"
• James 1:1: "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting."
• John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."

Thematic Connections

This verse and its surrounding context highlight the themes of judgment, restoration, and God's enduring covenant with Israel. The concept of Israel as sheep showcases the need for a shepherd, which is a motif found in both the Old and New Testaments.

Conclusion

Jeremiah 50:17 serves as a poignant reminder of Israel's historical sufferings and the divine narrative of restoration. It encourages believers to explore inter-biblical dialogue and thematic connections among verses, enriching their understanding and appreciation of Scripture.

Additional Resources for Cross-Referencing

• Tools for Bible cross-referencing
• Bible concordance for deeper studies
• Bible cross-reference guide for enhanced comprehension
• Cross-reference Bible study methods for believers
• Bible reference resources available for both personal and group studies

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