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The war In Iran has prompted discussion about Jeremiah 49 & Elam. Who is Elam?Elam predated Persia but was absorbed into Persia under Cyrus the Great. It eventually became part of modern day Iran. Think of Iran as Persia and Elam is part of it.Elam’s city of Shushan became an important capital in the Persian empire (the story of Esther took place there - a reminder that God’s hand is ever present).In fact, the modern Iranian province of Khuzestan is ancient Elam.These were historically a warlike, cruel, religiously dark people. They have a history of rising and falling.Elam’s rise to power was spoken of in Isaiah 21:2 and Isaiah 22.1-6. Specifically, those passages speak of their rise against Babylon and Babylon’s eventual fall.Ezekiel 32:24-25 speaks of their fall. Judgment is pronounced against Elam. It is spoken of going down to the pit for the terror they caused in the land of the living.Jeremiah 49 can offer both partial and total fulfillment of prophecies for Elam.49:35 God said He would “break the bow” of Elam. Meaning He would destroy their power and strength. They would be brought to trust in Him. Interestingly, they were known for their archery 49:36 he said He would scatter the people. No doubt, Elam has been scattered over the years, but we see room for a future scattering of people.49:37 indicates Elam will be humbled before its enemies. They will lose a war or wars49:38 their kings power would be loosened and God would destroy the authority over them49:39 the Lord promises a restoration of Elam, likely fulfilled in the Millennial Kingdom.Here’s the thing to remember. Elam has been subjected to hardship and war long before now. So we cannot definitely say, “this is it!” They may be subjected to more war to come. But, it does seem that there is a coming calamity to Elam. We just don’t know what or when. The other thing to remember is that God promises a restoration to Elam. This will likely be fulfilled in the Millennium. Jesus Christ is coming again, and He shall reign for ever and ever!We must consider God’s heart and plan. The Elamites were there on the day of Pentecost. Acts 2:9. God allowed the Gospel to be heard by them. He has a heart for them and wants them to be saved. He isn’t done with Elam yet.God gave His Son to save us from our sins. This is the time for us to pray for laborers and make efforts to get the Gospel to the Elamite people. Let’s make real efforts of prayer and labor to publish Christ’s name among the nations.