Jeremiah 27:15

For I have not sent them, declares the LORD, and yet they are prophesying falsely in My name; therefore I will banish you, and you will perish--you and the prophets who prophesy to you."

Study Bible

For I have not sent them, declares the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God in appointing true prophets. In the context of Jeremiah, false prophets were claiming to speak on behalf of God, but they were not sent by Him. This echoes Deuteronomy 18:20-22, where God warns against false prophets who speak presumptuously. The phrase underscores the importance of discerning true divine messages, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament.

and yet they are prophesying falsely in My name
The false prophets were using God's name to lend credibility to their messages, which were contrary to God's true word delivered through Jeremiah. This misuse of God's name violates the commandment in Exodus 20:7 against taking the Lord's name in vain. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed great importance on the authority of a prophet, making false prophecy a serious offense.

therefore I will banish you, and you will perish
This is a direct consequence of the false prophets' actions. The term "banish" indicates a removal from God's presence and favor, often resulting in exile or death. Historically, this reflects the impending Babylonian exile, a punishment for Judah's disobedience and the misleading guidance of false prophets. The phrase serves as a warning of divine judgment, consistent with the prophetic tradition of calling Israel back to covenant faithfulness.

you and the prophets who prophesy to you
The judgment is not only on the false prophets but also on those who choose to follow them. This highlights the communal aspect of sin and judgment in Israel's history. The people are held accountable for their willingness to listen to falsehoods rather than seeking the truth from God. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus warns against false teachers in Matthew 7:15-20, emphasizing the need for discernment among believers.

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 on behalf of God but delivering messages that contradict God's true word.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and authority over Israel and the nations.

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

5. Exile
The event of Judah being taken captive by Babylon, a consequence of their persistent rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Prophecy
Believers must exercise discernment and test the spirits to ensure that teachings align with Scripture.

Consequences of False Prophecy
False teachings lead to spiritual and sometimes physical consequences, as seen in the exile of Judah.

God's Sovereignty and Authority
God is sovereign and His word is authoritative; He will hold accountable those who misrepresent Him.

The Importance of True Prophets
True prophets are essential for guiding God's people according to His will, emphasizing the need for faithful teachers today.

The Danger of Complacency
Ignoring God's warnings through His true messengers can lead to severe consequences, urging believers to remain vigilant and responsive.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern between true and false teachings in today's context, and what tools does Scripture provide for this discernment?

2. In what ways does the warning against false prophets in Jeremiah 27:15 apply to the modern church?

3. How does understanding the consequences faced by Judah for listening to false prophets influence our approach to spiritual leadership and accountability?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are aligning ourselves with God's true message rather than being swayed by popular but false teachings?

5. How do the themes of God's sovereignty and authority in Jeremiah 27:15 encourage us to trust in His plans, even when they are difficult to understand or accept?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:20-22
This passage outlines the criteria for true and false prophets, emphasizing the importance of speaking only what God commands.

Ezekiel 13:6-9
Similar to Jeremiah, Ezekiel condemns false prophets who lead people astray with lies and false visions.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, teaching that they can be recognized by their fruits, connecting to the theme of discernment.