This chapter speaks of God’s judgment on Babylon but it is not until verses 17-19 that this becomes clear. The Medes will come in and be God’s instrument of judgment. Before the chapter focuses in on Babylon it serves as a warning to all about the danger of God’s judgment.

Initially it speaks of God assembling a great army for judgment (v1-5). The people are encouraged to wail and warn how their hands will become weak and their hearts melt at the sight of this army and judgment (v6-8).

This is described as the Day of the Lord (v9-13) and this phrase is often used in the Old Testament to speak of judgment that is imminent but also how this imminent judgment is a picture of the final great Day of Judgment to come at the end of the world. Signs of judgment around us now, are signs to warn us of the final judgment to come as Jesus returns.

God’s judgment brings terrible destruction (v14-16) and destruction (v20-22). Judgment is never a popular subject to consider but it is important for all to ponder it. God is just, all sin will be punished, Jesus alone can save us.