Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 27 - Verse 17

In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is warning the people of Judah not to listen to false prophets who are advising them to rebel against the king of Babylon. Instead, he urges them to submit to the authority of Babylon in order to preserve their own lives and the city of Jerusalem. Jeremiah is emphasizing the consequences of disobedience and rebellion, highlighting that following the instructions of these false prophets will lead to the destruction of their city. By serving the king of Babylon, the people of Judah would be choosing to prioritize their survival and the preservation of their city over their desire for independence and rebellion. This verse serves as a cautionary lesson about the importance of accepting and submitting to authority, even when it may seem difficult or unpopular.

When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse "Hearken not unto them; serve the king of Babylon, and live: wherefore should this city be laid waste?" from the book of Jeremiah, we can see a powerful message about obedience to God's will. In this particular context, the prophet Jeremiah is warning the people of Jerusalem not to listen to false prophets who are encouraging rebellion against the king of Babylon. By serving the king of Babylon, they are choosing to submit to the authority God has placed over them for a specific purpose. The theological lesson here is about the importance of following God's direction even when it may seem counterintuitive or difficult. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are higher than our ways, and that obedience to Him ultimately leads to life and preservation.