MPV Commentary

Jehoiakim Procures His Own Ruin.

The Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, son of Nabopolassar, founder of the Chaldean monarchy, invaded Judah in Jehoiakim's fourth year and first year as king (Jer 25:1; compare Jer 46:2). The young Assyrian king was likely detained at home due to his father's death, so he sent an army composed of tributary nations near Judea to punish Jehoiakim for rebelling against him. However, this hostile band was merely an instrument in executing God's judgment (2Ki 24:2) declared by the prophets against Judah for its sins; hence, though marching under Assyrian orders, they are described as sent by the Lord (2Ki 24:3).

The Lord would not pardon Jehoiakim's sin (see 2Ki 23:26; Jer 15:1).

Jehoiakim died and was buried without honor, as predicted (Jer 22:19; Jer 36:30). His son Jehoiachin succeeded him.

Jehoiachin reigned for only three months as a humble vassal of the Assyrians. This brief reign is not contradictory to the prophetic warning against his father (Jer 36:30).

The king of Egypt, Pharaoh-nechoh, was involved in these events.

Jehoiachin Succeeds Him.

Jehoiachin, meaning "God-appointed," began to reign at eighteen years old. He had been involved in the government since the age of eight (2Ch 36:9).

He did evil in God's sight, following the same destructive path that had brought disaster to his family and the people of Judah. His bad character is vividly depicted (Eze 19:5-7).