Old Testament

Jeremiah 23:17

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Jeremiah 23:17, the prophet addresses false prophets who mislead the people by assuring them of peace despite their disobedience to God.

Author
Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
Written
Around 600 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
CBTClear Bible Translation

They keep telling those who despise me, 'The LORD says you will have peace.' And to everyone who follows the imagination of their own heart, they say, 'No evil will come upon you.'

KJVKing James Version

They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Jeremiah 23:17, the prophet addresses false prophets who mislead the people by assuring them of peace despite their disobedience to God. They tell those who reject God that everything will be fine, ignoring the consequences of their actions. This reflects a common human tendency to seek comfort in lies rather than face the truth. The false prophets encourage people to follow their own desires, claiming that no harm will come to them. This message is dangerous because it fosters a false sense of security, leading people away from genuine repentance and a relationship with God. The verse highlights the importance of discerning true messages from God versus those that simply cater to our desires. It serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of ignoring God's commands, emphasizing that true peace comes from obedience to Him, not from empty reassurances. Explore related deception.

How to apply Jeremiah 23:17 to your life

We should be cautious of messages that promise peace without accountability. It's essential to seek God's truth and not just what we want to hear. Regularly examine our hearts and actions to ensure they align with God's will, fostering genuine peace through obedience.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 23:17 mean?

Jeremiah 23:17 warns against false prophets who falsely assure people of peace despite their disobedience to God. It highlights the danger of ignoring God's commands and following one's own desires.

What is the meaning of false prophets in Jeremiah 23:17?

In Jeremiah 23:17, false prophets are individuals who mislead others by claiming that God promises peace, even when people are living in disobedience. They provide comforting messages that ignore the consequences of sin.

How does Jeremiah 23:17 relate to self-deception?

Jeremiah 23:17 illustrates self-deception by showing how people prefer comforting lies over the truth of their disobedience. It warns that following one's own heart without accountability can lead to spiritual danger.

What themes are present in Jeremiah 23:17?

Key themes in Jeremiah 23:17 include false prophets, deception, the pursuit of peace, disobedience to God, self-deception, and the consequences of ignoring God's judgment.

The Book of Jeremiah
Book Summary

The Book of Jeremiah

Jeremiah 1: The Call of Jeremiah

The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin, are recorded. The word of the LORD comes to him in the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign over Judah. It continues to come to him through the reign of King Jehoiakim and until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah, when Jerusalem is carried into captivity. The LORD states that before He formed Jeremiah in the womb, He knew him and ordained him as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah responds that he cannot speak because he is a child. The LORD commands him not to say he is a child, for he will go where the LORD sends him and speak what the LORD commands.

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