Jeremiah 14:15

Therefore this is what the LORD says about the prophets who prophesy in My name: I did not send them, yet they say, 'No sword or famine will touch this land.' By sword and famine these very prophets will meet their end!

Study Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD says
This phrase introduces a divine pronouncement, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the covenant name of God, underscoring His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction serves as a reminder that the message comes directly from God, not from human imagination or desire.

about the prophets who are prophesying in My name
The phrase highlights the false prophets who claim divine authority. In ancient Israel, prophets were seen as God's mouthpieces. However, these individuals were falsely claiming to speak for God. The Hebrew word for "prophets" is "navi," which traditionally denotes someone called by God. Here, it is used ironically to describe those who have not received such a calling.

I did not send them
This statement is a direct repudiation of the false prophets' legitimacy. The Hebrew verb "send" (shalach) implies a mission or commission from God. By stating He did not send them, God is clarifying that their messages lack divine origin and authority.

yet they are saying
This phrase indicates the audacity and presumption of the false prophets. Despite lacking divine commission, they continue to speak as if they have God's endorsement. This reflects a broader theme in Jeremiah of human rebellion against divine truth.

'No sword or famine will touch this land.'
The false prophets' message is one of false security. Historically, "sword" and "famine" were common judgments from God for covenant unfaithfulness. The Hebrew words for "sword" (chereb) and "famine" (ra'av) are often used in prophetic literature to denote divine punishment. The false assurance given by these prophets contradicts the warnings God had previously given through true prophets like Jeremiah.

By sword and famine these very prophets will meet their end!
This is a divine declaration of judgment against the false prophets. The repetition of "sword" and "famine" underscores the certainty and severity of their fate. The Hebrew construction here emphasizes that the very calamities they denied would be their undoing. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of leading others astray and the ultimate triumph of God's truth over falsehood.

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. False Prophets
Individuals claiming to speak in God's name, delivering messages of peace and safety contrary to God's true warnings.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through Jeremiah to warn against the deceit of false prophets.

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

5. Sword and Famine
Symbols of divine judgment and the consequences of ignoring God's true prophetic warnings.

Teaching Points

Discernment of True Prophecy
Believers must exercise discernment to distinguish between true and false messages, aligning them with Scripture.

Consequences of False Assurance
False assurances of peace can lead to complacency and unpreparedness for God's judgment.

Accountability of Leaders
Spiritual leaders are accountable to God for the messages they deliver; they must ensure they speak truthfully.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's warnings through true prophets must be heeded to avoid the consequences of disobedience.

The Importance of Repentance
The call to repentance is central to avoiding the judgment that false prophets deny.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern between true and false messages in today's context, and what role does Scripture play in this process?

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

3. How does the accountability of spiritual leaders in Jeremiah's time apply to church leaders today?

4. In what ways can we ensure that we are not complacent in our spiritual lives, especially when faced with comforting but false assurances?

5. How do the warnings against false prophets in Jeremiah 14:15 relate to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about false teachers?

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 13:1-16
Similar warnings against false prophets who lead people astray with false assurances of peace.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, teaching that they can be recognized by their fruits.

2 Peter 2:1-3
Describes the presence of false teachers in the church, paralleling the false prophets in Jeremiah's time.