Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took with him as prisoners Seraiah the high priest, Zephaniah the priest of the second rank, and the three chief gatekeepers. And from among the people still hiding in the city, he took an officer who had been in charge of the Judean army; seven of the king’s personal advisers; the army commander’s chief secretary, who was in charge of recruitment; and sixty other citizens. Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, took them all to the king of Babylon at Riblah. And there at Riblah, in the land of Hamath, the king of Babylon had them all put to death. So the people of Judah were sent into exile from their land. [Jeremiah 52.24-27]
Here is a very sad indictment upon the leadership of Judah. The high priest, the second in rank and the three chief gatekeepers were all taken prisoner to Babylon and killed there.
Why is this an indictment? Because these Temple leaders were not spared, but Jeremiah was. Nebuchadnezzar made special arrangements to seek out Jeremiah and preserve his life - even giving him freedom.
My point is this: being a church leader does not exempt one from pending disaster.
Father, I really don't know how significant what I have read and understood today is... But just the same, help me to be faithful to You regardless of what lies ahead. I know You will distinguish between those who follow You and those who do not.
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