Definition: Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:2. It’s a really important message about leadership and responsibility. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Message: God is disappointed with the leaders of Israel. He’s saying that these leaders – specifically the shepherds – have been leading the people astray, driving them away, and not tending to their needs. He’s warning them that he will come back to judge them harshly for their actions. Let's look at it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 23:2 Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors…” – This tells us who is speaking: God Himself, speaking directly to the shepherds. He’s addressing them . "...that feed my people..." - This means these leaders are responsible for guiding and protecting the Israelites (the people God has chosen). They're entrusted with their well-being. "Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away…” – This is a strong statement. It means the shepherds have been leading the people in different directions, perhaps through harsh policies or ignoring important issues. They’ve caused the people to wander from the path God has set for them. “Scattered” suggests they’ve lost their trust and are now distant. "...and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings…” – This is the most important part. God is visiting (meaning coming back) to punish those who are wrong. He's saying he’ll bring judgment and consequences for their actions. "Evil of your doings" means they've been making bad choices that harm the people. In simpler terms: God sees these shepherds as failing in their duty. He’s angry with them because they have led the people astray, ignored their needs, and haven’t cared enough to keep them close. He intends to come back and make it right for them. What does this mean for us today? This verse is a reminder that leadership – especially leadership in religious or spiritual roles – carries responsibility. It encourages us to: Trust in those who are meant to guide: We should trust the leaders of our communities, organizations, and even ourselves to do what’s right and best for others. Hold them accountable: It's important to ask questions, challenge decisions, and ensure that people are following God’s will. Does this verse have a specific meaning for you? Would you like me to explain any of these parts in more detail or explore related biblical concepts? Do you want to know about: The historical context of the Old Testament? The idea of divine judgment?

Definition: The anger of the LORD shall not return, until he have executed, and till he have performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:20. It's a really important and somewhat complex idea, so we’ll take it step by step. Here’s what it means, simplified: “The anger of the LORD shall not return…” - This is the core of the verse. The Bible says that God’s anger – His displeasure or wrath – will never truly cease . It’s a constant state of being, like a fire that can’t be extinguished completely. Think of it as a deep, persistent feeling of disapproval. “…until he have executed…” - This is where it gets a little more nuanced. “Executed” means to carry out something – often a punishment or action. In this case, the Lord is planning something significant and powerful. “and till he have performed the thoughts of his heart:” - This is the key part that connects to our understanding of humanity. The “thoughts of his heart” refers to what God actually wants – His will, His plan for everything. It's about His purpose and what He’s trying to achieve. “in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly.” - This means that as time goes on, and we live through different periods of history, we will have an opportunity to understand God's plans fully. It’s not just about knowing what He wants; it’s about understanding it completely – recognizing His perfect design for the world. Putting it all together: Jeremiah 23:20 is saying that God’s anger will never be truly satisfied until He completes what He intends to do, and we, as people, have the opportunity to fully understand and appreciate His purpose. It’s a promise of ultimate justice and completion being brought about by God's will. What does it mean for us today? This verse speaks to themes of: God’s Justice: It suggests that God is always working towards righting wrongs and bringing about justice, even when it seems like He’s not moving quickly. The Importance of Understanding: It emphasizes that true faith isn't just believing what God wants, but also understanding His plan and purpose in the world. Hope for the Future: It offers a message of hope – that even after times of trouble and hardship, there’s always a future where God will complete His work and bring about a perfect outcome. Resources to explore further: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Jeremiah/23](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Jeremiah/23) (This allows you to read the verse in different translations and contexts.) Insights Bible: [https://insightsbible.com/jeremiah-23-20](https://insightsbible.com/jeremiah-23-20) (Provides a detailed explanation of the verse’s context.) --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Discuss its implications for our lives?

Definition: I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:21. It's a really interesting and slightly unsettling passage about the role of prophets and their impact. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jeremiah is saying that even though prophets were sent to deliver God’s message, they weren’t actually doing anything significant. They were just…running around! Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I have not sent these prophets…” – This is the core of the verse. Jeremiah acknowledges that he, as a leader and judge, did send these prophets to warn people about impending disaster. He believed they were important. “…yet they ran.” - This describes their behavior. They were restless, agitated, and seemed to be acting impulsively. They weren't focused on delivering God’s message; they were just moving around. “I have not spoken to them…” – This is the crucial part that throws us a curveball. Jeremiah emphasizes that he didn’t directly communicate with these prophets. He didn’t give them instructions, guidance, or explanations. They weren't receiving a clear message from him. So what does this all mean? It suggests a few things: Lack of Authority: Jeremiah is suggesting that the prophets were lacking in true authority. They weren’t seen as having a legitimate connection to God and their messages weren't being accepted or believed by the people. Disruption & Rebellion: The fact that they were running suggests a disruption – perhaps they were challenging the established order, or acting against the will of God. A Warning about False Prophets: The verse is often interpreted as a warning to those who are leading or preaching, and this verse speaks to the potential danger of people who aren't truly guided by divine truth. In essence, it’s saying that even when messengers are sent, they can sometimes act in ways that don’t align with what’s right or true. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore the theological significance of it?

Definition: But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:22. It's a really important message about hope and turning away from wrong paths. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “If people had listened to God’s advice and followed his words, they would have changed their ways and stopped doing bad things.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “But if they had stood in my counsel…” – This refers to the leaders of Israel during a time of great trouble. They were making decisions that weren't right or wise, perhaps because they were driven by selfish desires or wrong ideas. It suggests a period where they were not listening to God’s guidance. “…and had caused my people to hear my words…” – This means they needed to speak truth and share God’s message with their people. It highlights the importance of God's word being known and understood. “Then they should have turned them from their evil way…” - This is the core of the verse. It’s saying that if they had listened, they would have avoided doing things that were harmful or wrong (like idolatry – worshipping false gods). “…and from the evil of their doings.” - This means they would have stopped engaging in bad habits, actions, or behaviors that are damaging to themselves and others. It speaks to a desire for justice, peace, and righteousness. What’s the big takeaway? Jeremiah is essentially saying that listening to God's guidance and speaking truth is crucial for people to change their path and become righteous. It’s about repentance and turning away from sin. In a nutshell: It’s a plea for humility, obedience, and a commitment to follow God’s will – even when it's difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail (e.g., why it was important during that time)? Connect this verse to a specific biblical story or event?

Definition: [Am] I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Jeremiah 23:23. It’s a really profound statement about faith and our relationship with God. Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is present to us, right now, and not just somewhere far away. It’s a powerful declaration of intimacy and connection. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “Jeremiah 23:23” : This refers to a specific prophecy written by Jeremiah, a prophet who lived during a time of great upheaval in Israel. “[Am]” : This is an abbreviation for "And now" - it's like saying “and as a result” or “as a consequence.” “I a God at hand, saith the LORD” : This means God is speaking to us directly . The Lord (God) is communicating with him. “not a God afar off” : This is the core of the verse. It’s saying that God isn't just somewhere in the distance, untouchable or distant. He is right here , with us , and actively involved in our lives. What it means in simpler terms: It's a message of personal connection . Jeremiah is saying that God wants to be close to us – not just in a formal relationship, but as a friend. He’s inviting us to come to Him, to share our lives, and to trust in His presence. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes the importance of faith . It reminds us that God isn't something we can only find through rituals or traditions. He's a real person who wants a relationship with us. In essence, it’s a call to live a life that demonstrates our trust and connection with God. It encourages us to be present in our lives, to seek Him out, and to recognize His presence within us. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to your life?

Definition: Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Jeremiah 23:24 together. It's a really significant message about God’s ultimate plan for humanity. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is so incredibly concerned with everyone that He has planned a way to bring everyone back to Himself, even after the world as we know it falls apart. Let's unpack the parts: "Jeremiah 23:24 Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him?" – This is asking a really difficult question. Think of it like this: God isn’t just looking at you individually. He’s looking at all of humanity, the entire world. He's considering everyone, even those who are trying to hide or escape from Him. “Saith the LORD.” – This is God speaking directly to us. It’s a powerful declaration. "Do not I fill heaven and earth? Saith the LORD." – This is the big part. God says that He has filled the entire universe – heaven and earth – with everything he wants to create. That includes everyone, every place, and every possibility. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks of a future time when God will completely restore all creation back to His original design. It’s about a restoration that transcends anything we can imagine right now. It's not just about a physical rebuilding; it’s about bringing everything back to the perfect, divine order He established. Why is this important? God’s Sovereignty: It highlights God’s absolute control and power over all things. Hope for the Future: It offers hope that even after a period of darkness or chaos, God will ultimately triumph and bring everything back to His perfect plan. Eternal Purpose: It emphasizes that God has a grand design – a whole world created with purpose and meaning - and He’s working towards fulfilling it completely. In short, this verse says God is so full of love and intention that He will ultimately restore everything he created, even those who are trying to hide from Him. Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Relate it to a story or analogy?

Definition: I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 23:25. It's a really complex verse, and it’s packed with symbolism! Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is about doubt and disbelief . It says that the prophet Jeremiah was saying that he (Jeremiah) was speaking truth – that he was prophesying (speaking out loud) about something that wasn't real. He believed that his words were false. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “I have heard what the prophets said…” : This tells us we're talking about a specific prophecy being made. “…that prophesy lies in my name…” : This is the key part. "Prophecy" means speaking or declaring something that is true, but it’s also about predicting the future. The prophet was saying his words were not actually happening. He felt like he was creating a prophecy. “…saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed.” : This is a bit more figurative. “Dreamed” here means to imagine something that isn’t real. The prophet was claiming he had imagined the future and was making it into reality. What's the Big Picture? Jeremiah is writing during a time of great political turmoil in Israel. The king, Josiah, had been abandoning the covenant (a promise) between God and his people. Jeremiah’s prophecy accuses the king of breaking this covenant and causing suffering for the Israelites. He's essentially saying that the king's words are empty and meaningless because they aren’t based on real truth or a genuine commitment to God. Why is this important? This verse highlights a crucial point about faith and belief: faith can be deceptive. It warns against believing things without sufficient evidence or a solid foundation of truth. It suggests that people might create their own meaning and interpretations, even if those meanings are not based on reality. In short: Jeremiah was criticizing the king’s words as being untrue and fabricated, pointing out that people can sometimes invent or misinterpret things to make them seem true. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore the theological significance of this passage?

Definition: How long shall [this] be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, [they are] prophets of the deceit of their own heart;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Jeremiah 23:26. It’s a really powerful warning about the dangers of false teaching and deception. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that some people who are prophets – meaning they speak truth and warn about God – are actually spreading lies and misleading people. It’s like someone who’s trying to trick others with false promises or explanations. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 23:26” : This refers to a specific prophecy given by Jeremiah, a leader in ancient Israel. “How long shall [this] be…” : This is the crucial part – "how long?" It’s asking how long will this deception continue? “…in the heart of the prophets…” : This tells us it's not just anyone spreading lies, but specific people who are called “prophets.” Prophets were traditionally chosen to speak God's word and guide people. “That prophesy lies” : This means they’re speaking things that aren’t true – that’s their job! They’re saying things that aren’t the truth of God or His plan. “Yea, [they] are prophets of the deceit of their own heart…” : This is the key part of the warning. “Deceit” means misleading, tricking, or being dishonest. The verse says these prophets are causing this deception – they’re deliberately spreading lies to get people to believe something that isn't true. In a nutshell: The verse warns against those who use their position as prophets to mislead and deceive others with false teachings. They aren't genuinely speaking the truth; they're actively trying to trick people into believing things that don’t align with God’s word. Why is this important? This verse is a serious warning about the importance of trusting God’s word, which is always truthful and accurate. It reminds us to be discerning – to carefully examine what others are saying and not blindly accept everything without questioning it. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or historical context?

Definition: Which think to cause my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Jeremiah 23:27. It's a really important and challenging verse in the Bible, and it speaks about a serious problem with worship and faith. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jeremiah is telling us that people are forgetting about God when they focus on dreams and stories – especially those that seem to come from other gods (like Baal). It's like a group of people suddenly stops remembering the true, important name of God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Which think to cause my people to forget my name…” : Jeremiah is saying that some people are actively trying to make it seem like God isn’t real or important. They're focusing on dreams and stories, and they're deliberately trying to distract from the true worship of God. "...by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbour..." : This is where it gets really significant. These people are sharing these dreams with everyone . They’re spreading these stories across communities, making them seem like a normal and important part of life. It's like gossip spreading rapidly! "...as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal." : This is the core of the problem. Jeremiah is comparing this to what happened with the ancient god Baal. Baal was a very powerful, deceptive god who was worshipped instead of worshipping God. The people were forgetting about God because they were focusing on Baal’s stories and false promises! What's the message? Jeremiah is warning us about a dangerous tendency to prioritize things that aren't truly holy – dreams, stories, or even feelings – over genuine worship of God. It's urging us to stay focused on remembering God's true name and identity. It’s a reminder that our faith should be centered on the real God, not on what we think is happening around us. In short: This verse highlights the importance of focusing on God’s truth and avoiding distractions that can lead people to forget about Him. Does this make sense? Do you want me to explain any part in more detail or perhaps relate it to a specific biblical story? For example, are you curious about: The history of Baal worship? How this verse relates to the concept of idolatry?

Definition: The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What [is] the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 23:28. It’s a really rich and layered message about faith, leadership, and God’s plan. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that faith and speaking truth are intertwined. It’s urging us to actively live out our beliefs with courage and integrity. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Jeremiah 23:28 The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully.” – This part focuses on the role of a prophet . A prophet is someone who communicates God’s message to people. This verse emphasizes that if you have a vision or dream , it's important to share it honestly and with conviction. It suggests that revealing your beliefs through your words is crucial. “What [is] the chaff to the wheat?” – This is the really important part! The Hebrew word "chaff" means small, worthless bits or debris . The verse compares this to wheat. “Saith the LORD.” - This is a direct quote from God. Putting it all together: The verse is saying that a prophet's words are valuable because they are true and faithful. It’s like comparing a small, insignificant piece of trash to a whole bushel of wheat – the trash doesn’t matter much compared to what’s valuable. So, what does it mean practically? Be Honest: Speak your truth with integrity, even when it's difficult. Live Your Faith: Don’t just say you believe something; demonstrate it through your actions and words. Take Your Message Seriously: Don't downplay or minimize your beliefs – they are important because they come from God. In essence, this verse encourages us to be a conduit for God’s message through our words and actions. It emphasizes the importance of speaking truth , which is vital for faith and righteousness. --- Resources if you'd like to learn more: [Bible Gateway](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/quotes/Jeremiah+23%3A28) - This page has a good explanation of the verse’s context. [Wikipedia - Jeremiah 23:28](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah_23%3A28) – A more detailed overview. Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or perhaps explore a specific aspect of the verse (like its connection to prophecy)?