14 sent orders to release Jeremiah from the prison quarters. They entrusted him to Gedaliah, Ahikam’s son and Shaphan’s grandson, so that Jeremiah could move about freely among the people.
15 The Lord’s word came to Jeremiah when he was still confined to the prison quarters:
16 Go and say to Ebed-melech the Cushite that the Lord of heavenly forces, the God of Israel, proclaims: I’m about to fulfill my words concerning this city, for harm and not for good. You will witness it for yourself on that day.
17 But on that day, declares the Lord:I will rescue you;you won’t be handed over to those you dread.
18 I will defend you;you won’t die in battle.You will escape with your life,because you have trusted in me,declares the Lord.