Thus says Yahweh of Armies, the God of Israel, to all the captivity, whom I have caused to be carried away captive from Jerusalem to Babylon:
Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel,.... For the letter was written by the order of the Lord, was endited by him, and was sent in his name, the prophet was only his amanuensis; and the titles which the Lord here takes are worthy of notice: "the Lord of hosts": of the armies above and below, that does according to his pleasure...
Jeremiah's letter to the scattered exiles served a vital purpose: written Scripture carries the same divine authority as spoken word, and at a distance it delivers the seasonable comfort God's dispersed children desperately need. The case of these captives was melancholy indeed; they looked like greater sinners than those left behind.
AI summary
Commenting on Jeremiah 29:1-7
God commands the exiles to settle Babylon for the long term: build houses, plant gardens, marry, multiply. Seek the welfare of the city where you are captive and pray for it, because your safety depends on its safety. This is not hope in Chaldean collapse but obedience to His present will. The false prophets who promise quick deliverance speak lies; He has not sent them.
AI summary
Commenting on Jeremiah 29:4-14