Jeremiah 23:14

Afrikaans 2020 (Die Bybel 2020-vertaling)

Maar by die profete van Jerusalem het Ek iets afskuweliks gesien: Hulle pleeg egbreuk en leef 'n leuen; hulle sterk die hande van boosdoeners, sodat niemand wegdraai van sy boosheid nie. Hulle almal het vir My geword soos Sodom, en die inwoners soos Gomorra.”

What Does This Mean?

In Jeremiah 23:14, God, speaking through the prophet Jeremiah, criticizes the false prophets in Jerusalem for their immoral behavior, lies, and support of evil actions. They encourage others to continue their wicked ways, and God compares them to the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your teachers at school lied to you and encouraged you to do bad things. God is upset because some people called prophets, who were supposed to teach others how to follow God, were doing bad things themselves and telling others it was okay to do bad things too. It's like if they said it was fine to always cheat or lie, which would make everyone act worse.

Historical Background

Jeremiah 23:14 is written by the prophet Jeremiah in the 7th-6th century BCE. The book of Jeremiah was addressed to the people of Judah, particularly in Jerusalem, during a time when the nation was facing judgment from God for their wickedness and the false prophets who led them astray.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse reminds us to be wary of influencers or leaders who claim to guide us but instead promote immoral behavior or harmful actions. For example, a community leader who preaches against corruption but engages in it themselves would be like the prophets mentioned here.

Topics

• prophets
• hypocrisy
• judgment
• morality
• leadership
• sin

Related Verses

• Isaiah 56:10
• Ezekiel 13:1-16
• 1 Kings 22:6-28
• Matthew 7:15-20
• 2 Peter 2:1-3

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the false prophets doing wrong in Jeremiah 23:14?

The false prophets were engaging in adultery, lying, and supporting the wicked actions of others, preventing anyone from repenting.

Why does God compare these prophets to Sodom and Gomorrah?

God uses the comparison to emphasize the extreme wickedness of the prophets and their influence, similar to the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.

How does this verse apply to modern church leaders?

Modern church leaders should be careful not to lead others astray with immoral behavior or lies, and should instead encourage righteousness and repentance.

What can we learn about the impact of bad leadership from this verse?

Bad leadership can have a detrimental effect on individuals and communities, leading them away from righteousness and towards evil.