Chapter Context

This verse is part of a larger message where the prophet Jeremiah is calling out the leaders of Jerusalem for their corruption. The chapter builds up to this moment by outlining the failures of those in power and the dire consequences for the people. It’s a pivotal point where you sense the urgency of Jeremiah’s warning. What comes next is a promise of hope and restoration, but here, in this moment, you feel the weight of the problem. The prophets’ actions are pushing the community further into darkness, and Jeremiah is desperately trying to shine a light on the truth.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• prophets - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jerusalem - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• seen - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• horrible - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• thing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• commit - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• in - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• they - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• the - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What influences in your life might be leading you away from your values and truth, just like the prophets in this verse?

Related Verses

• Ezekiel 13:10 - This verse also talks about false prophets misleading people, showing that this issue was a widespread problem.
• Isaiah 1:10 - Written about 100 years before this, it warns against corrupt leaders and calls them to accountability.
• Matthew 7:15 - Here, Jesus warns about false prophets, connecting to the ongoing theme of discernment in leadership and influence.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Jeremiah 23:14. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Judgment, Restoration, Leadership Accountability, False Prophecy, Hope in Righteousness, Divine Sovereignty, Covenant Faithfulness

Key Verses

Jeremiah 23:1-2, Jeremiah 23:5-6, Jeremiah 23:16, Jeremiah 23:19-20, Jeremiah 23:14

Historical Context

Jeremiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, just before the Babylonian exile. This chapter reflects the growing disillusionment with the leadership in Israel, particularly the priests and prophets who were supposed to guide the people spiritually. Instead, they have led the nation into moral and spiritual decay. Jeremiah's messages often oscillate between warnings of imminent judgment and the hope of restoration, making him a pivotal voice in the Old Testament narrative. In this context, chapter 23 serves as both a critique of unfaithful leaders and a promise of a future Savior.