Jeremiah 14:17-22
Chapter 14
If I enter the country, I see those murdered by the sword. If I enter the city, I see the destruction caused by famine. For the prophet and the priest did not understand what was happening in the land.
Have you truly rejected Judah forever? Do you despise Zion? Why have you wounded us and left us hopeless? We looked for salvation but found none; we waited for healing, yet terror came upon us!
Lord, we acknowledge our wickedness, that of our ancestors, and the times we have sinned against you.
For your name’s sake, do not despise us; do not dishonor the throne of your glory. Remember us. Do not break your covenant with us!
Among the worthless idols of the nations, are there any who can bring rain or make the skies send showers? We put our hope only in you, Lord our God, for it is you who does all this.
Commentaries
Intercession and False Prophets.
God’s response allows Jeremiah to address the messages of other prophets who do not predict war and death, even though the people are already suffering from those plagues. God calls these messengers false prophets and states that they will face the same punishments—they are warning against—the evils they are avoiding (14:11-18). Once again, the prophet prays to the Lord on behalf of his people, admitting their guilt and sins, and emphasizing that the God of Israel is the only one who can deliver them from these great evils (14:19-22).