Old Testament
Jeremiah 38:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
King Zedekiah sent for Jeremiah the prophet and had him brought to the third entrance of the LORD's house. The king said to Jeremiah, "I want to ask you something. Don't hold anything back from me."
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Then Zedekiah the king sent, and took Jeremiah the prophet unto him into the third entry that is in the house of the LORD: and the king said unto Jeremiah, I will ask thee a thing; hide nothing from me.
What Jeremiah 38:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, King Zedekiah seeks out the prophet Jeremiah for guidance during a time of crisis. The king brings Jeremiah to a private location, indicating the seriousness of his inquiry. Zedekiah's request for honesty shows his desire for truth, even if it may be difficult to hear. This moment highlights the tension between the king's authority and his need for divine insight. Jeremiah, known for delivering God's messages, is in a position to provide counsel that could impact the fate of the kingdom. The setting in the house of the Lord emphasizes the spiritual context of their conversation, suggesting that the answers Zedekiah seeks are rooted in faith and divine will. This interaction sets the stage for a significant exchange that could influence the future of Judah amidst impending doom.
How to apply Jeremiah 38:14 to your life
When faced with tough decisions, seek counsel from trusted sources who can provide honest and wise advice. Like Zedekiah, be open to hearing difficult truths that may guide you toward better choices. Prioritize spiritual insight in your decision-making process.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
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Keep studying Jeremiah 38:14
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Key themes
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 38:14 mean?
Jeremiah 38:14 describes King Zedekiah seeking the prophet Jeremiah for guidance during a crisis. The king's request for honesty indicates his desire for truthful counsel, highlighting the importance of divine insight in decision-making.
What does Zedekiah's request for honesty reveal about his character?
Zedekiah's request for Jeremiah to hide nothing from him shows his willingness to confront difficult truths. It indicates a level of humility and a recognition of the need for divine wisdom in leadership.
How does Jeremiah 38:14 relate to seeking guidance in difficult times?
This verse illustrates the importance of seeking counsel from trusted advisors during challenging situations. Like Zedekiah, individuals should be open to receiving honest advice that may help navigate crises.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 38:14?
Key themes in Jeremiah 38:14 include seeking guidance, honesty in leadership, the need for divine insight, and the dynamics of authority during a crisis. These themes emphasize the role of faith in decision-making.
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