Old Testament
Jeremiah 26:12
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, Jeremiah is addressing the leaders and the people of Jerusalem, making it clear that his message comes directly from God.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Jeremiah spoke up to all the officials and the people: "The LORD himself sent me to prophesy against this house and this city — every word you just heard.
Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jeremiah is addressing the leaders and the people of Jerusalem, making it clear that his message comes directly from God. He emphasizes that he has been sent to deliver a prophecy that warns of impending judgment against the temple and the city itself. This declaration is significant because it highlights the authority of Jeremiah as a prophet and the seriousness of the message he bears. The phrase 'this house and this city' refers to the temple and Jerusalem, which were central to the Jewish faith and identity. By stating that he is speaking the words they have just heard, Jeremiah reinforces the urgency and importance of his warning. The people are being called to recognize the gravity of their situation and the need for repentance. This moment serves as a pivotal point in Jeremiah's ministry, as he confronts the leaders and the populace with the truth of God's impending judgment, urging them to heed the warning and change their ways before it is too late.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 26:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of listening to God's messages, especially when they challenge us. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and the state of our communities. We should be open to correction and willing to change our ways in response to divine guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the main message of Jeremiah 26:12?
The main message of Jeremiah 26:12 is that Jeremiah is declaring a prophecy from God against Jerusalem and the temple. He emphasizes that his words are not his own but come directly from the Lord, highlighting the seriousness of the impending judgment and the need for the people to heed this warning.
Why does Jeremiah refer to 'this house and this city'?
Jeremiah refers to 'this house and this city' to specifically identify the temple and Jerusalem, which are central to Jewish worship and identity. By doing so, he underscores the significance of the prophecy, as it pertains to the very heart of the people's faith and their relationship with God.
What does this verse teach about the role of a prophet?
This verse illustrates the role of a prophet as a messenger of God, tasked with delivering divine warnings and guidance to the people. It shows that prophets speak with authority and urgency, calling for repentance and a change of heart in response to God's messages.
How can we apply the message of Jeremiah 26:12 today?
We can apply the message of Jeremiah 26:12 by being attentive to God's guidance in our lives, especially when it challenges us. It encourages self-reflection and a willingness to change our behaviors and attitudes in light of divine warnings, fostering a spirit of repentance and renewal in our communities.

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.
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 • Save over 90%
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.