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
This phrase underscores the divine authority and authenticity required for true prophecy. In Hebrew, the word for "sent" is "שָׁלַח" (shalach), which implies a mission or commission. The false prophets lacked this divine commissioning, highlighting the importance of discerning true messengers of God. Historically, this reflects a time when many claimed divine inspiration without genuine calling, leading people astray.

declares the LORD
The phrase "declares the LORD" is a common prophetic formula in Hebrew, "נְאֻם־יְהוָה" (ne'um-YHWH), signifying the absolute authority and certainty of God's word. It serves as a divine seal of authenticity, contrasting the false claims of the unauthorized prophets. This emphasizes the need for believers to seek God's true voice amidst a cacophony of falsehoods.

yet they are prophesying falsely
The Hebrew root for "falsely" is "שֶׁקֶר" (sheker), meaning deception or lie. This highlights the deliberate nature of the false prophets' actions. They were not merely mistaken; they were intentionally misleading the people. This serves as a warning against those who distort God's word for personal gain or influence, a timeless issue in spiritual communities.

in My name
Invoking God's name, "בִּשְׁמִי" (bishmi), implies a claim to divine authority and truth. The misuse of God's name for false prophecy is a grave offense, violating the commandment against taking the Lord's name in vain. This underscores the sacredness of God's name and the responsibility of those who speak on His behalf.

therefore I will banish you
The consequence of false prophecy is severe. The Hebrew word for "banish" is "נָשָׁא" (nasa), which can mean to lift up or carry away, often implying exile or removal. This reflects God's judgment and the seriousness of leading His people astray. It serves as a sobering reminder of the accountability that comes with spiritual leadership.

and you will perish
The word "perish" in Hebrew is "אָבַד" (avad), meaning to be lost or destroyed. This denotes the ultimate fate of those who reject God's truth and lead others into error. It is a call to repentance and a return to genuine faithfulness to God's word.

you and the prophets who prophesy to you
This phrase indicates collective responsibility and consequence. Not only the false prophets but also those who heed their words are subject to judgment. It highlights the communal nature of faith and the impact of leadership on a community's spiritual health. Believers are encouraged to discern and uphold truth, ensuring that their leaders are genuinely aligned with God's will.

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.