JEREMIAH 52

GOD’S PEOPLE INVITED TO HIS ROYAL TABLE 

This final chapter of Jeremiah recalls Zedekiah’s reign as the final king over Judah before being taken into captivity. Reminiscing on the destruction and burning of the temple, this narrative highlights the turmoil caused by Babylon’s invasion of Jerusalem. In total 4,600 people are taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar and his army.

Also told in 2 Kings 25, the book ends with a short story that offers a glimmer of hope. Jehoichin, one of the previous kings of Judah, is released from prison by Evil-Merodach, the king of Babylon that succeeded Nebuchadnezzar. Evil-Merodach frees Jehoichin, replaces his prison garments, provides all of his daily needs, and invites him to dine at the royal table every day of his life. Jeremiah ends on a hopeful note that serves as an image of God’s invitation to His people—to be freed from bondage and invited into His presence.