The (Real) Prince of Peace

Aim: To find all our rest and protection in Jesus, the real ''Prince of Peace.''

Doctrine: David's kingly line ends in Jesus—who suffered for others. Zedekiah, (like all us sinners), deserved an inglorious death; Jesus, (the lone righteous One), endured it for His elect church.

Exegesis: ''Crime and punishment'' in the kingdom of God: unrepented-of sin brings certain judgment (vv. 1-3); unmerited grace conveys sure mercy (vv. 4-5); the word of God renders unfailing results (vv. 6-7).

Further application: How we honor the (real) Prince of Peace: by ''taking heaven'' by storm, and taking our rest in Christ alone.

Key phrase: vv. 4b-5a ''Thus says the LORD concerning you [Zedekiah]: 'You shall not die by the sword. You shall die in peace...' ''