Jeremiah 14:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 14:13
13 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the prophets say unto them, Ye shall not see the sword, neither shall ye have famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 14 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, wisdom, obedience. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 14:13
13 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the prophets say unto them, Ye shall not see the sword, neither shall ye have famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place.
Analysis
Jeremiah protests: 'Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the prophets say unto them, Ye shall not see the sword, neither shall ye have famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place.' This explains the people's complacency: false prophets contradict Jeremiah's warnings, promising 'assured peace' (Hebrew 'shalom emet'—true, reliable peace). Jeremiah appeals to God, effectively saying the people have been misled. This raises the problem of competing prophetic voices—how can people discern true from false? The false prophets' message was more pleasant but ultimately deadly, while Jeremiah's harsh message, though rejected, was true and life-saving for those who heeded.
Historical Context
False prophets like Hananiah (Jeremiah 28) contradicted Jeremiah's warnings, promising swift deliverance from Babylon. Their optimistic lies were more popular but proved catastrophically wrong.
Reflection
- How can believers discern true from false prophetic voices today?
- Why is the more pleasant message often false while harsh truth is rejected?
- What responsibility do false teachers bear for those they mislead?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Micah 3:11, 2 Peter 2:1
- Peace: Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11, 23:17
- Word: Jeremiah 4:10