Time and the promises of God

Read Jeremiah 50.

Now, God turned His attention to Babylon.  This is the empire that He had used to punish other nations, but their judgment is coming.  Their sin of pride and false worship will reach an end of God's patience with them.  In addition, the LORD will take vengeance for what the Babylonians did to His holy Temple in Jerusalem (v.28).

At first glance, it would be a quick assumption to conclude that this is referring to the fall of Babylon by the Persians in 539 B.C.  However, on closer reading, a half dozen statements will not match the invasion by Cyrus.  For instance, the Persians came from the east, not the north (v.3).  Also, the Persians did not totally destroy Babylon but occupied it to control their empire from India to Africa.  Therefore, the LORD has something more in mind.

Yes, there was a partial return of the exiles of Judah under Cyrus.  But, the regathering of a united Israel and Judah in the land of promise for the intent of worshiping God forever has yet to happen (vv.4-5).

In Revelation 17-18, we have revealed to us that there is a future Babylon to be built.  It will fall being totally destroyed near the end of the Great Tribulation.  Note that Revelation 18:2 states, "Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great!"  Twice fallen.  It fell once, but there is a greater fall coming.

Time and years are counted here on earth.  God lives in eternity.  Though more than 2500 years have past on earth, yet God's word concerning Babylon is as valid as if He had pronounced it five minutes ago.  The same is true for all the promises of God to us.  If it is the word of God, you can stake your eternity on it.

"For all the promises of God find Yes in him.  That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.  And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee." (2 Corinthians 1:20-22)