Old Testament
Jeremiah 10:21
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The leaders have become brutish and have not sought the LORD. Therefore, they will not prosper, and all their flocks will be scattered.
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For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.
What Jeremiah 10:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah criticizes the leaders, referred to as 'pastors,' for their failure to seek guidance from the Lord. Their brutish behavior indicates a lack of wisdom and compassion, leading to negative consequences for the people they are supposed to lead. Because these leaders have turned away from God, they will not find success or prosperity in their endeavors. The imagery of flocks being scattered suggests that the people are vulnerable and will suffer due to the leaders' negligence. This verse serves as a warning about the importance of spiritual leadership and the dire consequences of abandoning faith and divine guidance. It highlights the responsibility of leaders to seek God earnestly to ensure the well-being of those they lead, emphasizing that true prosperity comes from a relationship with the Lord.
How to apply Jeremiah 10:21 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking God in our leadership roles, whether in the church, family, or community. Leaders should prioritize their relationship with God to guide others effectively. Neglecting this can lead to chaos and suffering for those they lead.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 10:21
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At a Glance — the Book of Jeremiah
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 10:21 mean?
Jeremiah 10:21 means that the leaders, referred to as 'pastors,' have failed to seek guidance from the Lord, resulting in their inability to prosper and the scattering of their people.
What is the significance of 'brutish' in Jeremiah 10:21?
The term 'brutish' in Jeremiah 10:21 indicates that the leaders lack wisdom and compassion, behaving in a way that is harsh and unwise, which negatively impacts those they lead.
What does 'flocks will be scattered' symbolize in this verse?
In this verse, 'flocks will be scattered' symbolizes the vulnerability and suffering of the people due to the negligence of their leaders, highlighting the consequences of poor leadership.
How does Jeremiah 10:21 relate to leadership today?
Jeremiah 10:21 emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance in leadership roles, reminding leaders today that neglecting their spiritual responsibilities can lead to chaos and suffering for those they lead.
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