Jeremiah 14:13

"Ah, Lord GOD!" I replied, "Look, the prophets are telling them, 'You will not see the sword or suffer famine, but I will give you lasting peace in this place.'"

Study Bible

But I said, 'Ah, Lord GOD!'
This phrase begins with a heartfelt exclamation from the prophet Jeremiah. The Hebrew word for "Ah" is "אֲהָהּ" (ahhah), which conveys a deep sense of lament or distress. Jeremiah is expressing his anguish and confusion before God, a common theme throughout his prophetic ministry. The use of "Lord GOD" (אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, Adonai Yahweh) emphasizes the sovereignty and covenantal relationship of God with His people. Jeremiah acknowledges God's supreme authority even as he questions the situation at hand.

The prophets keep telling them
Here, Jeremiah refers to the false prophets who were misleading the people of Judah. The Hebrew word for "prophets" is "נְבִיאִים" (nevi'im), which traditionally denotes those who speak on behalf of God. However, in this context, these prophets are not true messengers of God. Historically, false prophets were a significant problem in ancient Israel, often leading the people astray with messages that contradicted God's true word.

'You will not see the sword or suffer famine,'
The false prophets were proclaiming a message of peace and security, directly contradicting the warnings given by Jeremiah. The phrase "You will not see the sword or suffer famine" is a false assurance of safety and prosperity. In the historical context, Judah was facing the threat of Babylonian invasion, and famine was a real danger due to the impending siege. The false prophets' message was dangerously misleading, giving the people a false sense of security.

'but I will give you lasting peace in this place.'
The promise of "lasting peace" was a deceitful assurance that contradicted the reality of God's impending judgment. The Hebrew word for "peace" is "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also completeness and well-being. The false prophets were offering a counterfeit shalom, one that was not rooted in obedience to God or His covenant. This false promise highlights the danger of listening to voices that do not align with God's truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and calls for repentance to the people of Judah.

2. The Prophets
False prophets in Judah who were misleading the people by proclaiming peace and safety contrary to God's true message through Jeremiah.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing impending judgment due to their disobedience and idolatry.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His displeasure with the false prophets and the people's disobedience.

5. Sword and Famine
Symbols of impending judgment and calamity that God warns will come upon Judah due to their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

Discernment of True Prophecy
Believers must seek discernment to distinguish between true and false messages, aligning with God's Word and character.

Consequences of False Assurance
False assurances of peace can lead to complacency and unpreparedness for God's judgment. We must remain vigilant and responsive to God's true warnings.

The Role of a True Prophet
A true prophet speaks God's truth, even when it is unpopular or difficult. We are called to uphold truth in our own lives and communities.

The Danger of Complacency
Complacency in spiritual matters can lead to severe consequences. We must actively pursue righteousness and heed God's warnings.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God's warnings of judgment remind us of His sovereignty and justice. We are called to trust in His righteous plans and respond with repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern between true and false messages in today's world, especially when they claim to be from God?

2. What are the dangers of listening to messages that promise peace and safety without calling for repentance and obedience?

3. How does the role of a prophet in the Old Testament compare to the role of spiritual leaders today?

4. In what ways can complacency in our spiritual lives lead to negative consequences, and how can we guard against it?

5. How do the themes of God's sovereignty and justice in Jeremiah 14:13 encourage us to trust in His plans, even when they involve difficult truths?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:20-22
Discusses the criteria for true and false prophets, emphasizing the importance of discerning God's true message.

Ezekiel 13:10-16
Similar warnings against false prophets who proclaim peace when there is no peace, highlighting the danger of misleading messages.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, teaching that they can be recognized by their fruits, which connects to the need for discernment.