Jeremiah recounts Jerusalem’s destruction by the Babylonians and the events preceding, during, and after this devastation.
Events Preceding, vv. 39:15-18; 52:1-7
A. Jeremiah’s reassurance, vv. 39:15-18–Ebed-melech will be protected from the invasion because of his faithfulness.
B. Zedekiah’s rebellion, 52:1-3–Zedekiah revolts against Nebuchadnezzar.
C. Nebuchadnezzar’s retaliation, 39:4-7; 52:4-7
1. Nebuchadnezzar besieges Jerusalem for two years.
2. Jerusalem suffers severe famine.
Events During, 39:1-8; 52:8-14
A. Jerusalem’s walls are breached, 39:1-3.
1. The walls are torn down.
2. The Babylonians sit in triumph at the Middle Gate.
B. Zedekiah’s children are killed, he is blinded, and led captive in chains, 39:4-7; 52:8-11.
C. The Temple and city are burned, 39:8; 52:12-14.
Events Following, 39:9-14; 52:15-34
A. Judah’s officials are executed, 52:24-27.
B. Judah’s people are enslaved, 39:9-10; 52:15-16, 28-30.
C. Judah’s wealth is exported, 52:17-23.
D. Judah’s prophet is encouraged, 39:11-14.
E. Judah’s former king, Jehoachin, is elevated, 52:31-34.
Outline by Harold Willmington