Jeremiah 23:33

"Behold, I am against those who prophesy lying dreams,” says the LORD, “who tell them, and cause my people to err by their lies, and by their vain boasting; yet I didn’t send them or command them. They don’t profit this people at all,” says the LORD."

Key Reflection

In first-century Judah, prophets were seen as authoritative voices of God’s will and judgment. However, Jeremiah 23:33 criticizes false prophets who spoke deceitful messages, leading the people astray through lies and vain boasts. This passage would have struck a chord with the original audience, as it echoes the common practice of false prophets during that time, highlighting how such misleading voices could undermine genuine divine revelation and lead to spiritual confusion among God’s people.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Burden -Here a prophecy, either (1) as being something weighty: or (2) a something said aloud. Isaiah brought the word into general use: Jeremiah never used it, though his predictions were all of impending evil. The false prophets, however, applied it in derision to Jeremiah’s prophecies, playing upon its double sense, and so turning solemn realities into mockery (seeJeremiah 23:34). What burden? -Or, according to another reading, Ye are the burden. I will even forsake you -Rather, and I will cast you away.

More from Jeremiah 23

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