Why does Jeremiah say “I am in your hands. Do with me as seems good and right” but then warn them against putting him to death?
Jeremiah begins the conclusion of his defence by saying to the judges, But as for me, behold, I am in your hands. Do with me as seems good and right to you.
Jeremiah formally acknowledges the authority of the court and submits himself to its verdict. This of course also place the judges themselves under scrutiny. Will they act with integrity knowing that they themselves are accountable to the Lord?1
The final statement of his defence reminds them however that in truth the LORD sent me to you to speak to you all these words in your ears.
He repeats his claim that he is indeed a true prophet sent by the Lord and that he has simply fulfilled his task of saying what the Lord sent him to say. The implication of this is that if you put me to death you will bring innocent blood upon yourselves and upon this city and its inhabitants.
The covenant condemned the killing of innocent people; doing so would bring them under the Lord’s judgment (Deuteronomy 19:10-13; 21:8).2 This final statement is aimed not only at the judges, but at the city and its inhabitants as well. All of them will be held accountable for how they respond to the Lord’s word as spoken by Jeremiah.3 Will they recognize the truth of his word and repent before the Lord, or will they reject Jeremiah and his message and face the Lord’s judgment?
14 But as for me, behold, I am in your hands. Do with me as seems good and right to you.