Truth and Consequences

Read Jeremiah 39.

The prophecy of Jerusalem's downfall came true, just as God had warned.  In 586 B.C., after a 30 month siege, the Babylonians breached the northern wall and quickly seized control.

1. Zedekiah (vv.4-8)
Meanwhile, King Zedekiah did exactly what Jeremiah told him not to do; he tried to escape.  The results were disastrous and brutal.

God had made His message clear that surrender would mean life and continued rebellion would lead to dire consequences for both the king and the city.  He refused to listen to the truth.  Instead, he relied on his own understanding and heeded the lies of others.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

However, during the hostile takeover of Jerusalem, God stepped in to take care of two faithful men.

2. Jeremiah (vv.11-14)
Nebuchadnezzar personally gave the order to protect and provide for this faithful prophet.  The new appointed governor, Gedaliah, was given full responsibility for Jeremiah.  Whatever the prophet said or needed would be done.  It would be natural to ask how the King of Babylon even knew who Jeremiah was and why would he treat Jeremiah with such favor.  There are several clues.  In chapter 29, Jeremiah wrote letters to the exiles in Babylon.  Nebuchadnezzar may have been aware or even read the letters.  Then, as some Judahites surrendered early to the Babylonians during the siege, they doubtlessly would have mentioned what the prophet said in calling for a surrender.  The third plausible possibility is that Daniel and his three friends, who had already been taken to Babylon, spoke highly of Jeremiah to the king.  At any rate, God took care of this one who had suffered much while serving Him.
"And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." (1 Peter 5:10)

3. Ebed-melech the Ethiopian (vv.15-18)
This man served as a high official to King Zedekiah.  While all the other officials wanted Jeremiah dead, he went to the king and put his own life and reputation on the line for Jeremiah.  All the other officials were slaughtered by the Babylonians, but God divinely protected this African believer and rewarded him "because you have put your trust in me."
"Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us." (Psalm 62:8)