49:7-22.

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A message concerning Edom (Jer 49:7-22)

The Edomites, the descendants of Esau, prided themselves that they were cleverer than peoples of surrounding nations. They were confident that their country was safe against attack because its rugged mountains provided it with a good defence system. The prophet tells them that neither their wisdom nor their defences will save them from the destruction that God has determined for them (Jer 49:7-8).

A vineyard worker picks the grapes that are ripe but leaves the rest; a house burglar steals only what he wants and leaves the remaining goods in the house; but the enemy’s attack on Edom will aim at total destruction. Even those who hide in caves in the mountains will not escape (Jer 49:9-10).

However, God will take care of all those who become orphans or widows as a result of the battle (Jer 49:11).

If people less deserving of God’s wrath must suffer his punishment, how much heavier will be the punishment of the wicked Edomites. God assures them that the prosperous towns in which they pride themselves will be left in ruins and become places of horror (Jer 49:12-13).

The Edomites think that the fortifications they have set up throughout their rocky hill country have made them secure against attack. They think they are unconquerable, but they deceive themselves. Jeremiah warns them that no matter how high up the mountains they go, or how strong they make their defences, nothing will save them from the coming judgment (Jer 49:14-16).

Edom’s overthrow will be complete. Like the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah it will be left a desolation (Jer 49:17-18).

As a lion comes from the jungle and destroys a flock of sheep, so will the enemy come and destroy Edom. No one will be able to withstand the army that God chooses to carry out his judgment (Jer 49:19-20).

The Edomite soldiers will be powerless against their attackers. Their wailing will be heard to the borders of their land and beyond (Jer 49:21-22).