Jer 29: "It was important that a message be received by the
exiles taken to Babylon in the captivity of Jehoichin, so that they might
understand the true nature of their circumstances. Those exiles were in a
similar position to the believers of today -- separated from their true
homeland, and dwelling in the country of the Gentiles. Many might have
considered that the day of release was at hand, and keenly anticipated a return
to Jerusalem. But Jeremiah's letter confirmed that the desolation of Jerusalem
would continue for a long period. Many of the captives would not see the return,
though the following generation would. It is therefore an important
communication, similar to that of the apostle Paul to the Thessalonians (2Th 2).
Jeremiah first outlines: [1] An introduction: vv 1-3. Then an appeal: [2] "Seek
the peace of Babylon, for the captivity will be long": vv 4-7. A warning: [3] Be
not deluded by false prophets: vv 8,9. An exposition: [4] In Yahweh's love the
captivity is limited to seventy years: vv 10-14. A comment about the signs of
the times: [5] Further trouble impending for Jerusalem: vv 15-19. A second
letter: [6] Denunciation against Ahab and Zedekiah: vv 20-23. [7] Indictment
against Shemaiah: vv 24-29. [8] Fate of the apostate Shemaiah: vv
30-32.
The 70 years captivity involved 3 'captivities' by
Nebuchadnezzar. In Jer 25:11 it is apparently dated from the servitude in the
4th year of Jehoiakim, being the 1st year of Nebuchadnezzar (Jer 25:1). The
captivity is dated by Ezekiel as commencing in the 8th year of Nebuchadnezzar
(Jer 1:1-2). The desolation commenced with the invasion and destruction of the
temple in 18th year of Nebuchadnezzar (2Ch 36:21)" (GEM).