Old Testament

Jeremiah 23:2

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

At a Glance

In this verse, God addresses the leaders of Israel, referred to as 'pastors' or shepherds.

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

So the LORD, the God of Israel, says this against the pastors who tend my people: "You have scattered my flock, driven them away, and have not cared for them. Now watch — I'm going to punish you for the evil things you've done," declares the LORD.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God addresses the leaders of Israel, referred to as 'pastors' or shepherds. He accuses them of neglecting their responsibilities towards the people, whom He likens to a flock. Instead of caring for and guiding them, these leaders have scattered the people and failed to protect them from harm. God expresses His anger and declares that He will hold these leaders accountable for their actions. This serves as a warning that leadership comes with serious responsibilities, and failing to care for those entrusted to you can lead to severe consequences. The imagery of shepherding highlights the importance of guidance, protection, and nurturing in leadership roles. God’s promise to punish the leaders emphasizes His commitment to justice and the well-being of His people, showing that He will not overlook the failures of those in authority. Explore related judgment.

Key themes

Related topics

judgment, anxiety, fear

How to apply Jeremiah 23:2 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of responsible leadership in any context, whether in the church, family, or community. Leaders should prioritize the well-being of those they serve, ensuring they provide guidance, support, and care to avoid negative consequences for themselves and their followers.

Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Jeremiah 23:2 mean?

Jeremiah 23:2 conveys God's message to the leaders of Israel, accusing them of neglecting their duties to care for the people, whom He compares to a flock. He warns that they will face punishment for their failures in leadership.

What is the meaning of 'scattered my flock' in Jeremiah 23:2?

In Jeremiah 23:2, 'scattered my flock' refers to the leaders' failure to protect and guide the people, resulting in their disunity and vulnerability. This imagery highlights the consequences of poor leadership.

What does God promise in Jeremiah 23:2?

In Jeremiah 23:2, God promises to punish the leaders for their evil actions and neglect of the people. This serves as a warning about the consequences of failing to care for those entrusted to them.

How does Jeremiah 23:2 relate to leadership today?

Jeremiah 23:2 highlights the importance of responsible leadership, reminding us that leaders must prioritize the well-being of those they serve. It underscores that neglecting this duty can lead to serious repercussions.

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Jeremiah summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Jeremiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 52 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Jeremiah summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.