Old Testament
Jeremiah 23:14
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But among the prophets of Jerusalem I've seen something even more horrifying: they commit adultery and live by lies. They encourage evildoers so that no one turns away from their wickedness. To me, they've all become like Sodom, and the people of Jerusalem like Gomorrah."
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I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah.
What Jeremiah 23:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His deep disappointment with the prophets in Jerusalem. Instead of guiding the people towards righteousness, these prophets are engaging in immoral behavior and spreading falsehoods. They are not only committing adultery but also encouraging others to continue in their sinful ways, making it harder for anyone to repent. God compares these corrupt leaders to Sodom and Gomorrah, cities known for their wickedness and eventual destruction. This comparison highlights the severity of their actions and the moral decay present in Jerusalem. The prophets' failure to uphold truth and justice leads to a society that is entrenched in sin, showing how leadership can significantly influence the moral direction of a community.
How to apply Jeremiah 23:14 to your life
This verse serves as a warning about the importance of integrity in leadership. It reminds us to seek out and support leaders who uphold truth and righteousness. Additionally, it encourages individuals to be vigilant against false teachings and to strive for personal repentance and moral living.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 23:14
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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 23:14 mean?
Jeremiah 23:14 expresses God's disappointment with the prophets in Jerusalem who engage in immoral behavior and spread lies, leading the people further into sin. God compares these corrupt leaders to Sodom and Gomorrah to highlight the severity of their actions and the moral decay in society.
What is the significance of Sodom and Gomorrah in Jeremiah 23:14?
In Jeremiah 23:14, Sodom and Gomorrah symbolize extreme wickedness and divine judgment. By comparing the prophets and the people of Jerusalem to these cities, God emphasizes the seriousness of their corruption and the impending consequences of their actions.
How does Jeremiah 23:14 relate to leadership?
Jeremiah 23:14 highlights the critical role of integrity in leadership. It warns that corrupt leaders can lead a community into moral decay, making it essential for individuals to seek out leaders who promote truth and righteousness.
What lesson can we learn from Jeremiah 23:14?
Jeremiah 23:14 teaches the importance of vigilance against false teachings and the need for personal repentance. It serves as a reminder to hold leaders accountable for their actions and to strive for moral integrity in our own lives.
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